Celebrities flock to the Austrian capital for splashy AIDS charity gala

The gala, held in Vienna's city hall, is billed as Europe's largest and most spectacular annual charity event dedicated to combating HIV and AIDS. The opening ceremony of the 16th event is expected to draw thousands to watch.

Evangelista and Cattrall are the latest celebrities to attend the event that has previously seen actress Catherine Deneuve and model Naomi Campbell.

Evangelista said her first agent died of AIDS in the early 1980s. "It was very, very, very tragic for me," Evangelista told reporters at a Vienna hotel. "Since then, I can't even tell you the number of friends and colleagues I've lost."

Kim Cattrall, representing the American Foundation for AIDS Research, said children must be protected from contracting the disease.

"We must protect the next generation so they do not suffer the loss that we have," Cattrall said.

Organizer Gery Keszler said he hoped this year's ball will top last year's $1.9 million fundraising record. Proceeds will go to AIDS-related initiatives in Austria and abroad.