Why the waltz? What gives with this senescent New Year’s tradition of still waltzing 200 years since the birth of the dance’s greatest maker, Johann Strauss II?

Only once “Alles Walzer!” ("Let the waltz begin!") has been declared can the rest of the crowd join in the dancing. This year, many balls honored the 200th anniversary of the birth of Viennese ...

Young people learn to dance waltz during a rehearsal in the Elmayer Dance School in Vienna, Austria, Sunday, Febr 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos) Show Caption. 1 of 10.

For many Austrians, a ball ends not on the dance floor but on the street at one of Vienna's famous sausage stands. Once again, those elbow-length gloves must come off — this time, to eat.