Velden, Austria: On Saturday the 18th of July the 20th Europaball was a resounding success. Guests from across Europe dazzled in their tuxedos and ball gowns on the Wörthersee, Kärnten, Austria.

It all began with the VIP reception on the magnificent “Seeterasse” of the Spielcasino Velden. Guests from more than 29 different countries walked up the red carpet to the champagne reception where the Ball Committee addressed the crowd.

This year’s Ball President, Andreas Dornik expressed his gratitude for the position, stating that being President of the 20th Europaball made the honour even more special. He stressed the reason behind the event- supporting the Meningitis Trust and wished the partygoers an enjoyable evening.

Mag. Othmar Resch, director of the Casino Velden and host of the VIP reception expressed his excitement of being able once again to welcome the guests of the Europaball.

Finally Mag. Christian Marolt, European Chairman of the Organising Committee "Pro Europe" thanked the ball committee for their magnificent work and handed them over a nice present in remembrance of this jubilee ball.

Led by a brass band, the Committee, followed by the VIP Guests paraded to the ships as the general public looked on. When all were safely aboard the ships set sail and the party began.

With cameras flashing, bands playing and glasses clinking the party was soon in full swing. This year was made extra special by the interconnection of the two ships, the MS Klagenfurt and the MS Kärnten. Guests danced on the MS Kärnten to Schachner & Friends and on the MS Klagenfurt to The Helicopter’s - Dance and Showband. A special performance of the first ball band of the Europaball 1990, The Roletts was another highlight of this magnificent evening. The ship’s restaurant also had a delicious array of food and refreshments to choose from indulging the guests with gourmet food.

A fireworks display added a magical touch to the Europaball 2009 as everyone gathered out on the decks of the connected ships to watch. After more dancing it was time for the ships to separate and sail back into the dock. This did not however, mean that the party had come to an end; there were two after-parties to attend. Guests enjoyed a late night cocktail in the Casino Velden and a live band in the Schloss Velden.

The 20th Europaball was certainly an event to remember and no doubt next year’s will be even better. We hope to see you again next year for the 21st Europaball on Saturday 17th of July 2010!