The Meridian Ball

An Enduring Tradition at the Heart of Washington’s Diplomatic Community

Now in its 57th year, the Meridian Ball remains one of Washington’s most respected forums for advancing global engagement through diplomacy.

Each fall, the Ball convenes leaders from across sectors—including U.S. and foreign government, business, media, and the diplomatic corps—for a unique evening that supports Meridian’s mission: empowering the next era of leaders to advance diplomacy for a better future.

Whether attending an ambassador-hosted dinner or the White-Meyer Dinner on campus, guests engage in an evening designed to spark connection, advance shared interests, and invest in the next era of global leaders.

Legacy

Founded in 1969, the Meridian Ball was created to deepen ties between Washington’s diplomatic community and the American public through cultural exchange. Since then, it has evolved into one of the city’s most enduring and globally minded events.

Hosted at the historic Meridian House and White-Meyer House, the Ball has welcomed generations of global changemakers: cabinet secretaries and ambassadors, journalists and philanthropists, business leaders and artists. As one of the few remaining formal balls in Washington, it continues to offer a rare space where bipartisan exchange, cultural diplomacy, and diplomatic celebration coexist.