“Pleasure is the only thing one should live for, and a ball is pleasure condensed,” Oscar Wilde once quipped. On Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, McMenamins’ Crystal Ballroom brings that idea to life, opening its storied floors to history, fantasy and fine tailoring for its second annual History Ball.
Inspired by “Bridgerton,” Jane Austen, and “The Gilded Age,” the History Ball is a celebration of historical fashion, social graces, and delightfully antiquated customs. Beaded gowns will glide past Victorian velvet, Renaissance sleeves will brush Edwardian waistcoats, and powdered wigs will compete with ostrich feathered headpieces.
Music will carry the evening across the centuries. Three live ensembles, Fireside Social Orchestra, Triplum, and Musica Universalis, will fill the Crystal Ballroom with classical ballroom music.
Dance caller Laura Hatch will lead guests through English Country Dancing, the structured group dances immortalized in period dramas. The evening will also include time for free dancing, waltzing with a partner, or simply tapping one’s spat-shod shoes to the music.
Between turns around the room, guests will witness a sword-fighting demonstration from Academia Duellatoria and an old-fashioned puppet show performed by Jacob Breedlove.
Each attendee will receive an keepsake dance card, a small booklet worn on the wrist for recording the name of your dance partner.
As the evening progresses, decorum will unbutton its waistcoats and loosen its gloves. Attendees are encouraged to leave the ballroom stage and head to the second floor of the venue where Lola’s Room will be hosting a late-night after-party. Bach, Mozart and Vivaldi classics will be reimagined with techno and electronic beats.
The History Ball is formal but welcoming. Part of the fun is everyone participating in the formal atmosphere of a grand ball pre-1920. McMenamins asks attendees to avoid wearing modern clothing such as jeans and T-shirts. That said, McMenamins also stressed that they, “embrace and celebrate today’s modern expressions of freedom, acceptance, and equality for all.” They encourage vintage style but firmly reject vintage values.
For more information on this weekend’s event visit McMenamins Crystal Ballroom website.