Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Ball start?
The Summer Ball is on Friday 11th June and doors will open at 6pm so make sure you get there early to make the most of the evening!

Is there a dress code?
The traditional dress code is black tie and everyone usually makes a big effort to dress up for the Ball. That means tuxedos or suits for the men – don’t forget to visit Moss Bros – and take advantage of their special offer.
Girls usually wear dresses and you’ll see everything from ball gowns to cocktail dresses so make the most of it and get glammed up!
That said, the fashion police won’t be guarding the entrance and in the past we’ve seen everything from smart club wear to fancy dress so feel free to be creative!

Who can attend the Ball?
The ball is open to all students and their guests. The person buying the tickets will need to show their University ID card but there is no limit on the amount of tickets they can buy (within reason).

What about online tickets?
Please remember to print out your e-tickets before the event. Printing facilities are available from the Box Office, free of charge.

Is food included in the ticket price?
Food is not included in the ticket price – the logistics of feeding over 6,000 people in a field make it impossible unfortunately. You will be able to buy food onsite for a reasonable price from the one and only Nando’s! Get your fix of PERi-PERi, with the Nando’s crew serving up delicious flame-grilled chicken and veggie burgers at 2 sites at Cooper’s Field – one outside the Ballroom tent, the other behind the Live Music Tent. For the Nando’s virgins, get down to the Nando’s restaurant at either the Old Brewery Quarter or Mermaid Quay prior to the ball to discover the fiery delights of the full Nando’s menu.

Will there be cash machines on site?
Unfortunately, there won’t be any cash machines on site so we advise everyone to bring money with them. The bars and food areas are not able to process card sales, only cash will be accepted. Look at the Bar Tariff to help you budget for the evening.

How does the smoking ban affect the Summer Ball?
By law, it is illegal for anyone to smoke in the marquees so please bear this in mind on the night. Fortunately, the Summer Ball has plenty of open air spaces for you smokers to take advantage of.

Do you search people on the way into the ball?
We reserve the right to operate a random search policy in order to prevent alcohol and other items entering the Summer Ball.

Is there a good turn out of mature students and staff at the ball?
The Ball attracts students from every walk of life – the diversity of the attractions and acts means that there is something for everyone at the Ball. Mature and postgraduate students are well represented at the event.

Will there be a professional photographer?
There will be a professional photographer to take pictures of you and your friends at the Ball (for a charge). There will be the option of having these printed immediately or sent home in case you lose them!

What happens if it rains?
The Summer Ball has seen all kinds of weather over the last few years (this is Britain after all!). We’ve never had to cancel the Ball, but if you are concerned on the 13th June, check www.cardiffuniversityballs.com and the Facebook group for the most up to date announcements.

How will I know which acts are on when?
You will be given an information flyer on entry, which will have details of who’s performing in each marquee, drinks prices and a site plan. Don’t lose it – it’s your guide to the night! We advise arriving early as the main acts perform from as early as 7.30pm.