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An important update about the Summer Ball

14 May 2024

If you’ve been on campus recently, you may have seen the main quad has been occupied by students who’ve formed an encampment. The encampment looks set to continue for an unspecified time.

Since the encampment started, we’ve been considering how best to run the events planned to take place in the quad. The difficult reality is that some of the events planned for the quad over the coming weeks (like the Summer Ball) are set to involve large-scale structures, stages, bars, and fairground rides. Because of the scale of these events, set up was due to start tomorrow (Wednesday 15 May). It is no longer possible to safely set up these structures around the encampment location, and to protect the safety and wellbeing of our community we’ve reached the difficult decision that this year’s Summer Ball can’t go ahead.

Although we don’t know when the encampment will end, and there’s a chance the quad will be clear by the date of the Ball, we can’t in good conscience continue to sell tickets without being able to guarantee the event will happen. Read more about the encampment here.


If you have a ticket, you will be automatically refunded the full cost. You don’t need to do anything. We’re working on processing these refunds as quickly as possible, but given the current high volume of requests, it will take up to 14 days to complete. We appreciate your patience.


We’re very sorry to bring you this news, we know how disappointed you will be, but the safety of our whole community remains our priority.

✨🪩 You're invited to the ultimate end-of-year party in the Main Quad on Saturday 1 June

On Saturday 1 June, we're bringing the UCL community together for the UCL Summer Ball, which will see campus transformed into a one-night-only festival in the Main Quad. Expect high-energy DJ sets, a silent disco tent, immersive party games, on-site bars, and so much more at this ultimate end-of-year bash.

So what are you waiting for? This is your invitation to get dressed up and come together for an unforgettable night to celebrate the end of term in the most iconic spot on campus.

The Summer Ball aims to foster a sense of community and togetherness, with an emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. All are welcome to attend and encouraged to join in this huge celebration of UCL’s unique culture and community spirit.

What to expect

 Get ready to dance, mingle, and create memories that will last a lifetime

1,200+ students celebrating the end of year in style.

Live performances - DJ sets, live singers and drag queens will be performing a diverse range of music genres. From chart-topping hits to classic tunes, there's something for everyone to dance the night away.

The return of our Ferris Wheel to the Main Quad.

A Silent Disco with two different channels, one curated by students.

Food trucks - burger bars, Middle Eastern street food and sweet treats, with a Prosecco Bar to wash it all down with.

A free Glitter Bar for those ultimate festival vibes.

Tarot Readings all night.

Themed zones - immerse yourself in different themed zones, each offering a unique ambiance and experience. Whether you're dancing to a silent disco or kicking it back at our bar, there's something for everyone.

Students' Union prices - It wouldn't be a Students' Union celebration without our Students' Union pricing, so make sure you get a drink from our exciting container bar, serving the best and cheapest alcoholic and alcohol free drinks around.

LOADS of photo opportunities to make lasting memories with friends... and much more!

Tickets

Release dates for those all important tickets

We're releasing tickets at different price points in the lead up to the Summer Ball. The earlier you buy your ticket, the cheaper the price!

Early Bird - SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

Second Wave - Limited!

SOLD OUT

General Release

£33

FAQs

Everything you need to know about the Summer Ball

How much are tickets?

A limited number of early bird tickets will be released on Monday 18 March, followed by General Release tickets on Monday 22 April. The sooner you buy your tickets, the cheaper the price!

Wristband collection information

You will be able to collect your Ball wristband from the Hanger at 25 Gordon Street on Monday 27 May, Tuesday 28 May, Wednesday 29 May, Thursday 30 May, Friday 31 May and Saturday 1 June between 11:00 – 15:00 on these days. All wristband holders will be entitled to 10% off Hanger merchandise - show your wristband to get the discount for a one time only discount.

We highly recommend you pick up your wristband before the Ball to speed up entry to the Main Quad. You will not be able to enter the Ball without a wristband. If you are unable to pick up your wristband, you will need to enter a separate queue on the day. If you have purchased more than 1 ticket please ensure you collect before the day of the ball or your guest(s) are with you in the queue. We won’t be able to hand wristbands over to anyone bar the named ticket holder.

To collect your wristband, you must show your ticket to staff. You will also need your Student ID. You will also need to show a valid photo ID, e.g., driving licence or passport.

Once you have collected your wristband, it is your responsibility to look after it. We will not replace lost or damaged wristbands.

Can I get a refund?

The Summer Ball is an 18+ event. Any tickets purchased by anyone under that age are neither valid nor eligible for a refund.

Once any ticket has been purchased, it will only be changed or refunded in the case of cancellation. In that case, the purchaser can apply for a refund in a period no longer than thirty days from the date of the public announcement of the cancellation.

Bad weather & natural disasters will not lead to ticket refunds.

Can I bring a non UCL guest?

Yes each guest can bring one non UCL guest and they must purchase their own ticket for entry!

What time does the Ball start and finish?

The Summer Ball will start at 20:00 and finish at 01:00 (if you make it to the end of the night!)

Is there a dress code?

Dress to impress in your finest formal attire with a touch of festival flair. Whether you opt for glamorous gowns or stylish suits, let your personal style shine as we celebrate in grand style.

What food and drink will be available at the Ball?

We'll have an array of festival food on offer - think burgers, falafels and churros on the go - there will be more than enough to keep you going long into the early hours.

Will there be gluten free/vegan options?

Yes, there will be!

Where can I get water?

There will be free water at every bar throughout the site.

Will there be security checks?

There will be security checks on entry to ensure the safety of all guests.

Will I be able to leave and re-enter the Ball?

No. You will not be allowed to re-enter the site once you leave. This is due to strict capacity and security rules in place to keep everyone safe.

Can I pay in cash and card?

We will be running card only bars and food outlets.

What can I bring into the Ball?

Please do not bring any bags larger than A4 size and ensure you have student ID. For any non UCL guests, please ensure they bring valid photo ID.

I have accessibility or access needs - can you help?

If you need to have a carer or companion by your side at the Ball, let us know. Please email [email protected] with your requirements and we'll do what we can to help.

I've still got a question - who can I ask?

If your question isn't already answered here, please do drop us a line at [email protected] and we'll try to help!