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Inaugural Ball

 

Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go

Transportation

Visit the Event Information page for information about shuttles, Metro, and parking options.

Complimentary guest shuttles will be available at the 21st Street entrance of the University Student Center (800 21st Street, NW) on the Foggy Bottom Campus and Ames Hall (210 Foxhall Road, NW) on the Mount Vernon Campus.  Shuttles will run continuously from 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, through 1 a.m. on Monday, January 20.

If arriving via a rideshare or taxi service, the hotel’s address is 2500 Calvert Street, NW.

Items Required to Enter

For entrance to the event, please be sure to bring:

  1. Your ticket: All guests must present their ticket, not a screenshot, on a mobile device for admission to the event. Screenshots of a ticket will not work to get you in. Before arriving at the Inaugural Ball, login to your GW Arts Account Manager using the web browser on your phone, and download your mobile ticket to your phone's wallet.
  2. Photo ID (government-issued): The ID must contain your birthdate and you must be 21 years or older to purchase and drink alcoholic beverages.

Optional items to consider bringing:

  • A camera or your phone to capture pictures and stay connected with your friends!  There will be plenty of photo ops at the GW Inaugural Ball.  Make sure to charge it before you leave for the hotel.
  • Credit card or cash to purchase drink tickets (for guests 21 years or older).  We will provide a complimentary drink ticket; if you would like to purchase additional ones, the hotel accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and cash.  An ATM machine is available onsite.

Attire

Get photo ready!  Check out The Loop for clothing options or if you need some final accessories to complete your outfit.  It will have extended hours on Friday, January 17, from 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Men's Wearhouse and Jos. A Bank is offering 10% off purchase of a tuxedo or suit or $70 off a rental.  Use the GW discount with reference code #13085883 for Men’s Wearhouse and #13085888 for Jos. A Bank. Suit and tuxedo rentals must be returned by Tuesday, January 21st.

Entertainment and Floorplan 

There is an exciting lineup of professional and university talent to help you enjoy the night.  Review the floorplan to plan out your evening.  We hope to see you on the dance floor!

Omni Shoeham Hotel Floorplan (PDF)

 In the main lobby:

In the Hampton Room:

In the Blue Room:

In the Blue Room Pre-Function space:

  • GlamCam - Check out these celebrity poses for inspiration, including Kerry Washington, B.A. ’98, HON ’13!

    How to capture the best shot:

    • Look directly into the lens to make “eye contact” with the camera.
    • Don’t move slow! Move fast! Your movements will be slowed down in the video.
    • When in doubt, show off your outfit! Consider twirling your dress, flicking your hair, sliding your hands in your pockets, or fixing your suit (cuff, tie, or collar).