The Diplomatic Ball
The Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service is excited to announce the 97th Annual Diplomatic Ball. The Diplomatic Ball celebrates Georgetown University’s tradition and legacy in international affairs.
The date and location for the 97th Annual Diplomatic Ball will be announced shortly!
About the Ball
The Walsh School of Foreign Service’s Diplomatic Ball is an annual black-tie event uniting students, alumni, faculty, and members of the diplomatic community. Taking place every spring at a prestigious location in Washington, DC, the Diplomatic Ball is one of the most highly-anticipated events of the year.
The Diplomatic Ball has recently been held in venues such as the Organization of American States (OAS), the National Building Museum, the Library of Congress, and the Washington National Cathedral.
Last year, the 96th iteration was held at the International Spy Museum. 1,218 people attended the Ball and it featured food inspired from places around the world. Thank you to the Planning Committee for putting on a wonderful event and to our guests for continuing this cherished tradition!
Inaugurated in 1925, the Diplomatic Ball has been known at various times as the Diplomat’s Ball and the Ball of Nations, but its purpose has always been to bring together individuals passionate about international affairs.
Faculty on the Diplomatic Ball
Dr. Shareen Joshi, Associate Professor of International Development – “It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, share new ideas, interact with people you may never have met before, and you might never think to meet otherwise. Think of it as networking made fun, and learning about other cultures, ideas, and you never know what opportunities you’re going to find.”
Dr. Elizabeth Grimm, SFS Professor- “I can’t imagine any venue more fitting than to bring people together with scholars, practitioners in the field, to be able to socialize, to be able to learn more about the topics that we think about on a daily basis….it is a privilege for us to come together as a community, to be able to be together to build connections…I hope to see you there!”
Logistics
Please check back in the spring semester for information on when tickets will be available for sale. All ticket purchases must be made with a Georgetown University email account. Students may purchase a maximum of two tickets. Tickets will be redeemable for a wristband, which allows access to the venue and can be picked up on campus at designated times. No one will be admitted to the event without a wristband.
Sponsorships
The Diplomatic Ball is excited to offer different partnerships this year. Please check our website regularly as new partners will be announced until the event.
FAQs
How do I inquire about sponsoring the Diplomatic Ball?
If your company is interested in getting involved with this year’s prestigious Diplomatic Ball as a partner or sponsor, please email diplomaticball@georgetown.edu. Contact us for our official sponsorship package, detailing existing and new flexible opportunities to connect with our community and contribute to our school’s celebration of a memorable night in Washington D.C.
How many tickets can I purchase?
There is a two-ticket purchase maximum; one for yourself and one for a guest.
What will happen if I don’t use my Georgetown email address?
Tickets purchased without a Georgetown email address will be refunded to the purchaser, as we will assume you are not Georgetown-affiliated.
What’s the refund policy?
Ticket sales are FINAL and non-transferable.
Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?
Both 21+ tickets and under 21 tickets will be sold. 21+ tickets will have access to an open bar. All tickets include hors d’oeuvres, dancing, and soft drinks. The week of the ball on the Georgetown University campus, wristbands will be distributed to all attendees after a strict ID check. Wristbands and Eventbrite confirmations must be presented at registration on the night of the ball in order to attend.
What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Please check back soon for information regarding transportation as parking options, after the venue for the event has been finalized!
What can I bring into the event?
No outside food or beverages will be permitted into the event. No large backpacks or bags. Security officers will be monitoring venue entrances.
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No. However, no one will be admitted without a wristband. No exceptions will be made for guests who arrive without their wristbands.
Contact Us
For any questions, please email us at diplomaticball@georgetown.edu.
Our Committee
Romita Chattaraj — Chair of Event
Sriya Guduru — Vice Chair of Partnerships and Sponsorships
Luke Hughes — Vice Chair of Communications and Marketing
Sydney Freed — SFS Academic Council Liaison
Lina Ridenour— SFS Dean’s Office
Matthew Hancock — SFS Dean’s Office