United States presidential inaugural balls are large social gatherings, both white tie and black tie, held to celebrate the commencement of a new term of the president of the United States.
Catered food, beverages, and live entertainment performed by national and globally acclaimed musicians are provided at the inaugural balls.
The tradition of presidential inaugural balls in the United States has evolved over time.
In 1809, Dolley Madison hosted a gala at Long's Hotel in Washington D.C. after the first inauguration of James Madison was held earlier in the day at the United States Capitol, where a total of 400 tickets were sold for $4 a piece.
Reflecting the mood of previous presidents in the early 20th century, Jimmy Carter stripped his 1977 inaugural balls of their frivolity and glamor, and charged no more than $25 per ticket.