How Austria's Super Bowl parties grew from a side room to a sold-out spectacle
The Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, will draw crowds across Austria, with fans gathering in hotels and pubs for live screenings of the vikings game. What began 27 years ago as a small event in Vienna has now grown into a major social occasion. This year's celebrations promise food, expert commentary, and a festive atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
The first Super Bowl party in Austria took place in 1998, hosted by Karl Wurm in a modest side room of the Schmelz canteen. Back then, the event featured a simple buffet and no ticket sales. Wurm, who has led the Minnesota Vikings for 35 years, may have been the first in Europe to turn the American football final into a communal experience.
Today, the Minnesota Vikings' Super Bowl event at the Marriott is seen as the original and remains a highlight for the city's hospitality scene. Guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet, halftime breakfast, and analysis from experts Michael Eschlböck and Walter Reiterer. The party has even attracted out-of-town visitors, with packages including hotel rooms and late check-outs.
Wurm believes the Super Bowl's format—short bursts of action followed by breaks—makes it perfect for social viewing. While he predicts the Seattle Seahawks are the stronger team, his personal support lies with the New England Patriots. Vienna now offers more options than ever for fans wanting to watch the super bowl 2025 together, reflecting football's rising popularity in Austria.
The Super Bowl has become a major event in Austria, with the Minnesota Vikings' party leading the way. What started as a small gathering has expanded into a night of food, discussion, and entertainment. For many in Vienna, it's now a tradition as big as New Year's Eve.
