AZERI OBSERVER EDITORIAL STAFF
On February 27, 2025, one of the most anticipated social events of the year took place at Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers – the Charity Viennese Ball in Baku. An evening where sophistication and tradition merged with philanthropy, once again confirming the event’s status as a true symbol of culture, beauty, and kindness.
When Traditions Unite the World
Following the triumphant return of the Viennese Ball to Baku, the organizers sincerely believe that this event will not only become an annual tradition but also serve as an important international platform. The Ball opens unique opportunities for strengthening cultural and business ties, exchanging experiences, and bringing people from all over the world together for a noble cause.
Under the patronage of the Vienna City Hall and the Austrian Embassy in Azerbaijan, guests became part of a genuine cultural dialogue. The enchanting sounds of the waltz, exquisite attire, and the atmosphere of aristocratic charm transported attendees to the very heart of Vienna.
From L to R: Lidiya Aliyeva-Shestak, Alfred Praus, Austrian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Thomas Schuller-Gotzburg with his spouse Tran Thin Khanh Trang and Svetlana Tretyakova
The Grand Opening and Main Highlights of the Evening
As per tradition, the Ball commenced with the debutante’ entrance, symbolizing their first step into high society. Accompanied by the refined music of the Baku Chamber Orchestra IMEC, the young couples gracefully and elegantly opened the evening, captivating the guests with their charm.
Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Nargiz Karimova mesmerized the audience with her heartfelt performance, while the charismatic host Emin Musavi infused the evening with lightness and inspiration.
The Choosing of the King and Queen of the Ball
As is customary, the organizing committee of the Charity Viennese Ball selects a prince and princess from among the debutants, as well as the king and queen of the Ball among the adult participants. These prestigious titles are awarded to individuals who not only shine on the dance floor but also actively participate in charitable initiatives, inspiring others with their example.
● The Prince and Princess of the Ball were students of the European Azerbaijan School – Murad Alakbarli and Angelina Pons Mahmudova.
● The Queen of the Ball was declared Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Nargiz Karimova.
● The King of the Charity Viennese Ball 2025 was Honored Journalist of Azerbaijan Emin Musavi.
A Ball That Makes the World a Better Place
Philanthropy is at the heart of this exquisite evening. As part of the event, an auction was held, with all proceeds directed to the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the international organization “SOS Children’s Villages” to support children in need of care and attention.
The organizers of the Ball – the business club The One in a Million and its partner in Baku, Lidiya Aliyeva-Shestak – emphasized that their main goal is not only to preserve cultural traditions but also to foster international cooperation through art, uniting people from all over the world.
Partners Who Made This Possible
This evening would not have been so grand without the support of our esteemed partners: Fairmont Baku, Flame Towers, Bentley Baku, Savalan Aspi Winery, Freywille, Victoria Katsadze Cosmetics, BUKETERIA.
And also: VODAVODA, European Azerbaijan School, Sun Group Holding (restaurants More&More, Eva), Forte Village, Palazzo Fiuggi, Compass International LLC, GABA, NAC International Activity of Contacts, Selebra Concept Store, KARUNAS Energy Cloth, Iryna Tretiyak, DONNA, Biz Network Serve & Connect Global Dots, ShanShal, and CHOCOBON.
Media Partners: 1News, The M.O.S.T., Azeri Observer and Caspian Magazine.
To the sounds of the final waltz, this magical evening came to an end. But the Charity Viennese Ball did not say “goodbye,” it said “until we meet again!” We look forward to welcoming you in 2026 at the next Charity Viennese Ball in Baku!
Stay tuned for updates at @viennese_ball_baku
