1866

Founding of the Ball

"The Trinity Boat Club May Ball held at the Lion Hotel was a grand success. The only drawback being 'the room', which was certainly too small for such a large and brilliant assemblage... Julien's Band, a handsome supper — what more could be wanted?"

1910

History

Dating back over a century and a half, the First and Third Trinity Boat Club May Ball has undergone a startlingly dazzling transformation. Interrupted only by the death of a Monarch and World War II, the legacy of a very humble beginning lives on to this day. What was once a low-key celebration with 38 guests in the honour of a successful May Bumps season has now become a world-class affair with approximately 2500 guests.

2016

The 150th Anniversary

A night to remember — our wonderful guests attending the 150th anniversary event partook in a celebration of delightful music, inspiring fireworks and enchanting cuisine. The 157th anniversary event will participate in this rich tradition.

2025

Alumni applications will be accepted for two weeks from Monday 13th January. Internal applications will be accepted for one week from noon on Monday 10th February until noon on Sunday 16th February, with external applications the following week.

Ticket FAQ Terms

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Dining Ticket

A Dining ticket includes a champagne reception, followed by a lavish five course feast with wine pairings in the unrivalled setting of Trinity’s Great Hall before the Ball.

A Lavish Dining Experience
Champagne Reception
Dinner Entertainment

Standard Ticket

One of the most sought after tickets to be had in May Week. You and a guest will experience Cambridge’s best Ball, an unrivalled showcase of revelry—unlimited food and drink, a stunning fireworks display, and a myriad of entertainments from chart-topping stars to world-class comedians to the finest classical and jazz musicians.

Exquisite Entertainment
Unparalleled Setting
Unmissable Food

VIP Ticket

With the VIP experience, guests enter the Ball an hour before our regular guests to attend a sumptuous champagne reception.

Classical Entertainment
Champagne Reception
Early Access to the Ball

The Poster

We have carefully designed an exquisite poster for this year’s ball so you can reminisce the night long after the Ball has come to close. Below you can see a selection of our incredible posters from the year’s gone by. Make sure you grab one of this year’s posters when purchasing your ticket!