Spend a memorable part of your New Year holiday at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna's Hofburg Palace, where the world-famous white Lipizzaner stallions perform in the magnificent Baroque Winter Riding School.
Accompanied by classical Viennese music, the horses and their riders demonstrate the elegance, precision and remarkable harmony of classical horsemanship. The historic riding hall, with its white columns, galleries and chandeliers, makes this one of Vienna's most distinctive cultural experiences.
Special gala performances take place on 30 and 31 December, offering a longer presentation of this centuries-old tradition.
New Year performances 2026/27
- 27–28 December 2026: Regular performances
- 30–31 December 2026: Gala performances
- 2–3 January 2027: Regular performances
Regular performances last approximately 70 minutes, while gala performances last approximately 90 minutes.
Ticket prices vary according to the date, performance type and seating category.
The Lipizzaners at the Spanish Riding School
The Spanish Riding School has preserved the classical art of horsemanship for centuries. Its performances are the result of years of careful training, during which horses and riders develop exceptional balance, discipline and coordination.
The programme demonstrates the traditional exercises of classical riding, from elegant formations and precisely controlled movements to the advanced techniques of the High School.
The performances take place in the Baroque Winter Riding School at the Hofburg, built between 1729 and 1735 during the reign of Emperor Charles VI. With its graceful architecture and long equestrian history, it provides an extraordinary setting for the Lipizzaners.
Spanish Riding School Vienna
Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna
How to get there
The Spanish Riding School is located at the Hofburg Palace in central Vienna, within walking distance of the U3 underground station Herrengasse.
The entrance to your performance is indicated on your ticket.
Seating
The Winter Riding School offers different seating categories, including ground-floor boxes and elevated galleries.
Please note that some seating areas, including the first and second galleries and the Royal Box, can only be reached by stairs.
Children
Children under 3 years are not admitted.
Children aged 3–6 may attend free of charge when seated on an adult's lap. Reduced admission is available for children aged 6–12.
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces are limited and must be arranged in advance. The historic building has no lift.
What to wear
There is no need for formal evening attire. As the historic Winter Riding School is not heated, warm clothing is recommended during the winter months.
Photography and belongings
Photography and video recordings are not permitted during performances.
There is no cloakroom or luggage storage facility at the Spanish Riding School.
