Revelers planning to attend Washington’s inaugural ball have about a week left to iron out their black-tie attire.
The state’s last inaugural ball was held eight years ago; the quadrennial soiree had to be scrapped in 2021 because of the pandemic.
This year’s event, planned and hosted by the Thurston County Chamber, kicks off at the state Capitol Campus at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15.
The ball is the same day that Ferguson will be sworn in as Washington’s next governor, and just two days after the 2025 legislative session begins. Ferguson will be sworn in at noon on Wednesday, and the ceremony will be broadcast on TVW and streamed at tvw.org .
Inaugural balls honor the governor as well as statewide elected officials and the judicial and legislative branches. They’re also open to the public . Attendees can come to witness a key time of transition, particularly as Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson steps into his new role.
General admission tickets are still available for $150 . Festivities will be spread across the Capitol Campus but centered at the Legislative Building.