On a crisp autumn evening, the Windham Mountain Club in Windham, New York, was transformed into a hub of vibrant culture and heritage as the First Burgenländer Austria SC celebrated its 100 Year Jubilee Gala. The event was a true “Burgenland-Fest” that brought together generations of emigrated Burgenländer to mark a century of their enduring cultural legacy. The gala was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including the honorable LH Mag. Hans Peter Doskozil, Governor of Burgenland, making it a night to remember for all in attendance.
The First Burgenländer Austria SC, founded in 1923 by immigrants from Burgenland, a picturesque region in Austria, has a rich history of preserving and promoting Burgenland culture and traditions in the heart of New York. With the passage of time, the club has evolved into a close-knit community that welcomes all who share an interest in Burgenland’s heritage.
The 100-Year Jubilee Gala, held on Sunday, marked a significant milestone for the club, as it celebrated a century of its existence. The gala was a grand spectacle featuring a delightful blend of tradition and modernity. Guests were treated to a sumptuous spread of authentic Burgenland cuisine, a testament to the culinary heritage of this remarkable region. The evening also featured an array of beverages that highlighted the local flavors.
In true Burgenland spirit, the gala was an opportunity for attendees to revel in their culture’s musical traditions. Live music and dancing created an electric atmosphere, making the event feel like a slice of Burgenland had been transported to the heart of New York. As the notes of traditional Burgenland folk songs filled the air, attendees took to the dance floor, celebrating their heritage through the age-old art of dance.
One of the highlights of the evening was the raffle, featuring an assortment of prizes generously donated by members of the community. The raffle not only added an element of excitement but also demonstrated a strong sense of unity and support within the Burgenland community. It was a testament to the shared values and camaraderie that have been cherished for generations.
What made this gala particularly unique was the presence of not just one, but five generations of emigrated Burgenländer. It was a striking testament to the enduring nature of the Burgenland heritage, passed down through the years and proudly celebrated by each generation. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and nostalgia as the elders shared stories of their journey to America and their efforts to keep their culture alive. The younger generations, in turn, embraced their roots with a sense of pride and enthusiasm, promising to continue the legacy.
The presence of LH Mag. Hans Peter Doskozil, a distinguished guest, was indeed an honor for all those gathered in New York. His attendance symbolized the connection between Burgenland and its diaspora, underlining the importance of preserving cultural ties and traditions across borders.
Everybody present at today’s 100 Year Jubilee Gala of the First Burgenländer Austria SC in #NY could witness a true “Burgenland-Fest” with literally 5 generations of emigrated Burgenländer being present. Thank you #LHDoskozil for joining – what an honor for all gathered in #NY. pic.twitter.com/zbkzWn4VIg
— Petra Schneebauer (@SchneebauerP) October 23, 2023
Her Excellency, Petra Schneebauer, the Ambassador of Austria to the United States, tweeted about the event, expressing her delight at being present at the celebration. Her presence underscored the significance of the event and the strong ties between Austria and the Burgenland community in New York.
The 100-Year Jubilee Gala of the First Burgenländer Austria SC was not just a celebration; it was a reaffirmation of the enduring strength of cultural identity. It was a night filled with laughter, dance, stories, and shared love for Burgenland. As the gala came to a close, it left attendees with a profound sense of connection, reminding them that their heritage would continue to thrive and be celebrated for generations to come.
