The Embassy of Austria and the Austrian Cultural Forum in Washington, D.C. are proud to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States with a distinguished cultural celebration, featuring a special concert by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and an accompanying exhibition highlighting the longstanding Austrian–American friendship.
Held before an audience of distinguished guests from government, diplomacy, the arts, and civil society, the program promises to underscore the enduring partnership between Austria and the United States and celebrate the shared democratic values that unite both nations.
ABOUT THE CONCERT
Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | March 4, 2026 | 8:00 PM
The legendary Vienna Philharmonic returns to Washington D.C. with a magnificent program: Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra opens the concert—its iconic rising horns ushering in the dawn of a new world. Then, Sibelius’ majestic Symphony No. 2 will bring lush, arching melodies.
The Vienna Philharmonic, founded in 1842, is a world-renowned Austrian orchestra known for its rich musical tradition and unique “Viennese sound.” It is distinguished by its democratic structure, where musicians are selected from the Vienna State Opera and decisions are made collectively. The orchestra is deeply rooted in Viennese musical history and is celebrated for its performances of classical repertoire, including the annual New Year’s Concert.
ABOUT THE EXHIBITION
The Sound of Ambition: Austrians in the American Semiquincentennial | February 27 – March 10, 2026
In conjunction with the concert, the Embassy of Austria and the Austrian Cultural Forum Washington will present a curated exhibition exploring the historic and cultural ties between Austria and the United States in the Hall of Nations. The exhibition highlights Austrian contributions to American life over time, ranging from the arts and culture, architecture, and ski culture to Austrian entrepreneurs and business in the United States. The Embassy of Austria and the Austrian Cultural Forum Washington thank Swarovski for the items they have loaned on behalf of this celebration of the impact of Austrian businesses and people in the United States.
The exhibition will be transferred to the Embassy of Austria in mid-March, where you are warmly invited to enjoy its contents while attending one of our events.
This event is part of our America250 event series, which commemorates the United States Semiquincentennial and celebrates the shared past, present and continued friendship between the USA and Austria through a variety of cultural and educational events.
Image © Vienna State Opera and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performing Richard Strauss's Salome at Carnegie Hall on Saturday night, March 1, 2014. It is part of Vienna: City of Dreams festival. This image: Andris Nelsons leading the Vienna State Opera and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. (Photo by Hiroyuki Ito/Getty Images)