GW Inaugural Ball Set for Jan. 19

Tickets for the only-at-GW event have been discounted for all members of the GW community.

December 2, 2024

Bright smiles and happy faces capture the vibrant energy of the 2009 GW Inaugural Ball.

The George Washington University has hosted an inaugural ball in Washington, D.C., since 1993. The tradition began when then-President-elect Bill Clinton's inauguration team used space in the University Student Center for its offices.

The event has been held every four years since 1993, with a break in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as a bipartisan, only-at-GW experience for the GW community to dust off their dancing shoes and enjoy a special evening with friends. There have been seven GW inaugural balls. The eighth will be 8 p.m. to midnight Jan. 19 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, 2500 Calvert St., NW.

Tickets for students, faculty, staff and alumni have been discounted.

"I concluded, talking to students and reflecting on it, that we add value to GW by bringing to the campus inaugurations, political speakers and visiting heads of state. Having some of these events, in fact, is one of the things that made us unique and different."

President Emeritus Stephen J. Trachtenberg from a 2008 interview

View our photo gallery for highlights from previous GW Inaugural Balls and purchase your ticket to create your own memories:

Guests dance the night away to celebrate the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

George and Martha Washington impersonators at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

A beautifully designed gift presented to guests at the 1997 GW Inaugural Ball, a keepsake of an elegant evening.

Guests dancing at the 1997 GW Inaugural Ball.

From quick spins to graceful moves, a couple steals the spotlight on the dance floor, creating a memorable moment at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

A live music experience at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

The official invitation to the 2004 GW Inaugural Ball, as featured in The Hatchet on Nov. 11, 2004.

Guests at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball share smiles and celebrate the occasion.

A talented student dance group lights up the stage with a dynamic performance at the 2009 GW Inaugural Ball.

The 2009 GW Inaugural Ball showcased school spirit with a beautifully crafted hippo ice sculpture.

Dressed to impress, students embraced the festive atmosphere and made the most of the 2009 GW Inaugural Ball.

Guests embraced the spirit of celebration, laughing, dancing and cherishing every moment of the unforgettable evening at the 2009 GW Inaugural Ball.

The 2017 GW Inaugural Ball featured a stunning a cappella performance showcasing the talent of GW students.

Cheers to the night! Live music set the tone as guests toasted to an evening of celebration at the 2013 GW Inaugural Ball.

The 2009 GW Inaugural Ball is highlighted in the Cherry Tree yearbook, offering a glimpse into the iconic celebration.

A couple takes the dance floor at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

Bright smiles and happy faces capture the vibrant energy of the 2009 GW Inaugural Ball.

Dressed to impress, student guests enjoy drinks and share smiles while making the most of the evening at the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

Live performance at the 1997 GW Inaugural Ball.

The Jan. 22, 2001, issue of The Hatchet features a student’s perspective on the 2001 GW Inaugural Ball.

Students and guests make their grand entrance at the Omni Shoreham Hotel for a memorable evening at the 2013 GW Inaugural Ball.

Smiling faces were everywhere, embodying the festive atmosphere of the 1993 GW Inaugural Ball.

From appetizers to desserts, every bite is enjoyed by guests at the GW 1993 Inaugural Ball.

Students pose for a photo at the GW 2013 Inaugural Ball.