Around a month after the National Council election, the new National Council Presidents receive visitors in Parliament, and the Presidential Chancellery and Federal Chancellery also open their doors to the public. The Federal Army is presenting itself with a performance exhibition at Heldenplatz.
Video: The National Day celebrations in the live stream
The official celebrations begin in the morning with wreath-laying by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and the outgoing turquoise-green federal government at the Outer Castle Gate on Heldenplatz.
One 11 a.m The swearing-in ceremony for around 1,100 male and female recruits begins at Heldenplatz. All around you can explore vehicles and weapons of the armed forces, including the “Lion” helicopter and the “Skyranger” air defense system. The police present themselves at Minoritenplatz, and the City of Vienna’s security festival takes place at Rathausplatz, where you can get to know the fire brigade, rescue, nature lovers and Viennese water better.
Picture gallery: National Day 2024: hustle and bustle around Vienna’s Heldenplatz and the Ringstrasse
(Photo: GEORG HOCHMUTH (APA)) Bild 1/16
View gallery
Numerous institutions and ministries will also open their doors to interested parties throughout the day.
One 10 O `clock Van der Bellen and his wife Doris Schmidauer welcome the guests in front of the Hofburg on Ballhausplatz. The Federal Chancellery is between 12 and 5 p.m accessible for visits. In Parliament you can choose between 10 a.m. and 4 p.mr take part in a one-hour walking tour.
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Interview with Julia Meier, Political Analyst, on Austria’s National Day Celebrations
Editor: Julia, thank you for joining us today. With the National Day celebrations just around the corner, can you give us an overview of what these events signify for Austria this year?
Julia Meier: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. This year’s National Day is particularly significant as it marks the first major public gathering after the National Council elections. The ceremonies, including visits from the newly appointed National Council Presidents and the public opening of the Presidential and Federal Chancellery, reflect a renewed engagement with the government and the people.
Editor: What can the public expect in terms of activities and presentations?
Julia Meier: This year’s celebrations will kick off with a wreath-laying ceremony by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, a tradition that honors our history and those who have served the country. Following this, at around 11 a.m., the swearing-in ceremony for new recruits will take place at Heldenplatz. It’s a momentous occasion that underscores our commitment to national defense and the involvement of young citizens in this responsibility.
Editor: And what else will be visible to attendees at these celebrations?
Julia Meier: The festivities include an impressive performance exhibition by the Federal Army, showcasing their vehicles and capabilities, such as the “Lion” helicopter and the “Skyranger” air defense system. This year, the police will also have a presence at Minoritenplatz, and the City of Vienna will host a security festival at Rathausplatz, giving citizens insights into the work of firefighters, rescue services, and even local nature conservation efforts.
Editor: With the recent elections and the opening of government buildings to the public, how do you see these elements contributing to the overall sentiment among citizens?
Julia Meier: This transparency is crucial. Opening government offices allows citizens to feel more connected to their representatives and the political process. Given the often polarized climate, such initiatives foster dialogue and could contribute towards rebuilding trust between the government and the populace.
Editor: Lastly, what message do you think this National Day conveys to the international community?
Julia Meier: It signals stability and continuity. By celebrating our armed forces, government, and emergency services, Austria reassures both its citizens and international partners of our strong governance and commitment to peace and security.
Editor: Thank you, Julia, for sharing your insights with us!
Julia Meier: Thank you for having me! Enjoy the celebrations!
Interview with Julia Meier, Political Analyst, on Austria’s National Day Celebrations
Editor: Julia, thank you for joining us today. With the National Day celebrations just around the corner, can you give us an overview of what these events signify for Austria this year?
Julia Meier: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. This year’s National Day is particularly significant as it marks the first major public gathering after the National Council elections. The ceremonies, including visits from the newly appointed National Council Presidents and the public opening of the Presidential and Federal Chancellery, reflect a renewed engagement between the government and the people.
Editor: What can the public expect in terms of activities and presentations?
Julia Meier: This year’s celebrations will kick off with a wreath-laying ceremony by Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, a tradition that honors our history and those who have served the country. Following this, at around 11 a.m., the swearing-in ceremony for new recruits will take place at Heldenplatz. It’s a momentous occasion that underscores our commitment to national defense and the involvement of young citizens in this responsibility.
Editor: And what else will be visible to attendees at these celebrations?
Julia Meier: The festivities include an impressive performance exhibition by the Federal Army, showcasing their vehicles and capabilities, such as the “Lion” helicopter and the “Skyranger” air defense system. Attendees can also explore various displays at Minoritenplatz and Rathausplatz, where the police and City of Vienna’s security festival will take place, highlighting the contributions of first responders and local services.
Editor: It’s great to see such community involvement. Will there be an opportunity for the public to interact with government leaders?
Julia Meier: Yes, there will! Federal President Van der Bellen and his wife will welcome guests at the Hofburg, and throughout the day, the Federal Chancellery and Parliament will open their doors for visits, allowing citizens to engage directly with their government and learn more about its functions.
Editor: Thank you, Julia. It sounds like a meaningful celebration for all involved. We look forward to seeing how the events unfold!
Julia Meier: Thank you! It’s an important day for Austria, and I’m excited for the public to partake in these celebrations.
