How many people attended last year's Masquerade Ball?

We had over 900 people at the Carnegie Library ushering in the New Year last year. Maximum comfortable capacity has been set at 1,000 so we're expecting to sell out this year. We're also getting some major promotional help thanks to last year's success so don't drag the old boots!

How do I go about getting tickets for the event?

The best way to get tickets is by ordering online through our safe and secure online "Click n' Print" ticketing agency. You can also call and order over the phone at 800.595.4849. Just be sure to mention the "Mad, Mad, Masquerade." Early bird special ends at midnight on Friday, December 15th. Tickets will be on sale online until 12pm, Dec. 31st. After that, all purchases will have to be made at the door. All purchases are final and non-refundable.

Will my ticket be mailed to me?

Through the click and print feature, you can conveniently print your ticket at home and bring it with you to the event. If you prefer to have your tickets mailed to you, you can choose that option at the time of purchase. Deadline for tickets by mail is Dec. 17th. Event admittance will be conducted via scanners, which will eliminate any registration lines so that you can get to your revelry sooner. There will be will-call for those who ordered via phone.

Is there a metro stop close by? How late does the metro run that night?

The Chinatown/Gallery Place Metro stop (Red Line) is only 2 blocks away. And the Metro stays open until 2am. If you miss the Metro, remember that DC is offering a great program called SoberRide which will give free cab rides within a $50 limit. There is some fine print, so read what The Washington Post's Fritz Hahn has to say about it here...

Is this a black tie event only?

No, the Masquerade is black-tie optional, though we strongly encourage you to dress to the nine's, whether in costume or black-tie - definitely be sure to bring a mask. Over 900 people dressed and masked created quite the party atmosphere last year! If you're looking for a discount on costumes and masks, we've arranged a 10% discount at Master's Costumes in Arlington - just mention the Mad, Mad, Masquerade.

What time do the doors open?

Doors open at 8:30pm.

Last year, the open bar was only for 3 hours. Will it be open all night this year?

That's right, we've listened to your feedback and decided to have the open bar be all night this year. We will also be doubling the liquor bars. Not only that, we will also separate liquor from beer by introducing multiple beer and jaeger stations and for those in need of sobering up we will have separate water stations as well. This will ensure less time in line and more time on the dance floor.

Will I see a spider monkey riding on a rhino's back?

No. That's a stupid question. How in blazes did you get into the FAQ's?

Is the Carnegie Library Building metro accessible?

That's better... the Carnegie Library Building is conveniently located just 2 blocks away from the Chinatown/Gallery Place Metro stop on the Red Line (view map). The neighborhood is safe and well lit. When you get out, just look for the shining searchlights in the sky and follow that to the ball! Best of all, the Metro stays open until 3am??? {CHECK THIS} on NYE.

What time should I arrive?

Ah, the age old dilema: Doors open at 8:30pm. Its up to you how much bang for you want to get from this sumptuous event.

Are there restaurants nearby?

You can dine beforehand at the many restaurants in Chinatown. Our top recommendation is our Thursday haunt - Fado Irish Pub which has excellent and a cozy atmosphere. Nearby you can find about 100 Chineese joints, a Clyde's, Fudruckers, Legal Seafood, La Tasca, Matchbox and many more.

Do you have a discount arrangement with a nearby hotel?

Yes, we've worked out a deal with the Henley Park Hotel, a beautifully renovated hotel 2 blocks from the Library. We've blocked rooms that lock you into the best rate within the area. After stopping by and visiting the place, we were truly impressed. Built in 1917, its bar has one of the last true jazz bars in the city and the swank atmosphere reflects it. The restaurant has great food so you can catch dinner in full garb with an atmosphere that keeps up with your snappiness. Also, they've offered multiple packages where you can add on options such as upgrade based on availablity, breakfast/brunch in the amazing restaurant, and a pet elephant at virtually cost. Check out the page here. But the price of its charm is that there are only 93 rooms. Essentially, the whole hotel could be Mad Masqueraders, which would be quite the afterparty. Don't worry if they sell out though - they have a charming sister hotel across the street who will honor the rates. We've got you covered!

I'm from out of town - can I get to the Ball conveniently?

The great thing about the Carnegie Library is its location. Less than a mile from Union Station and the Amtrak, 2 blocks from the Metro, and 1 block from the Chinatown bus stop (cheapest option), it's virtually the easiest place to get to on the entire waking planet.

Will there be coat check?

We will have the old Capitol Coatcheck crew from last year - adorable little destitute college guys who will work to the nubs to make sure you are properly defrocked and refrocked at the end of the night. And remember these guys work for tips so bring some green. Coat check itself is $2.

How much can we expect to see the Scythian lads playing?

This year Scytihan will be playing 2 sets of over an hour each so there will be plenty of music to throw bar stools to. Of course there's all night music from The Reflex and Yamomanem to catch as well, not to mention Looney Tunes in the Nickelodeon, so if you're ADD, you may want to bring the meds.