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Big amfAR Gala in Salzburg: A celebration for AIDS research and stars!
The amfAR gala will take place in Salzburg on August 24th, 2025 to raise urgently needed funds for HIV/AIDS research.
Big amfAR Gala in Salzburg: A celebration for AIDS research and stars!
The first amfAR gala took place in Salzburg on August 24, 2025, which raised money for HIV and AIDS research and prevention. The event, organized by Gery Keszler and the LIFE+ association, attracted around 400 high-ranking guests from business, art and media. The exclusive event, which took place as part of the Salzburg Festival in the baroque Salzburg Residence, was almost sold out. Tickets cost between 2,000 and 5,000 euros per person, with some seats still available. According to information from kleine Zeitung, the gala offers the opportunity to spread hope in times of funding cuts for the fight against AIDS.
Opening the evening was Oscar winner Jeremy Irons, who also supported the gala to remember humanity and help Rufus Wainwright with his performance. Wainwright presented excerpts from his “Dream Requiem” on an original Mozart clavichord, while Ute Lemper presented a musical-literary performance inspired by Bertolt Brecht.
Details about the gala and the charity auction
The gala, chaired by Simon de Pury, included a charity auction with unique exhibits including a Mini Cooper by designer Elie Saab and costumes by Vivienne Westwood. Guest of honor Bob Geldof received the Grand Decoration of Honor in Gold for services to the Republic of Austria. The amfAR was founded 40 years ago by Elisabeth Taylor and Mathilde Krim, and the organization focuses on curing HIV/AIDS, not just for privileged sufferers like him Kurier reports.
The culinary event was led by Jannic Stockhausen, who has experience in Michelin star restaurants. The logistical planning included 2,600 glasses, 1,200 bottles of water, 240 bottles of champagne and 520 bottles of wine. In addition, 100 kilos of risotto rice and 1.8 tons of crushed ice were used. Andreas Kronthaler designed the charger plates, which were produced in collaboration with Gmundner Keramik.
After the gala and perspectives
After the gala, Leopoldskron Palace opened its gates for an afterparty dedicated to the 60th anniversary of “The Sound of Music.” International DJs created a festive atmosphere. However, Keszler was unclear about a possible amfAR gala next year, raising questions about the future direction of the event. All proceeds from the gala go directly to amfAR's research and are intended to support sustainable education in the fight against HIV/AIDS, as highlighted on the lifeplus website.