Merton College is understood to have asked students on the winter ball committee to consider delaying Merton’s Michaelmas ball in order to allow more time for planning. Despite concerns from the College, the organising committee is “committed” to delivering the ball in November as planned.
Speaking with members of the MCR committee, Cherwell understands that the College are “extremely concerned” that the planning of the ball is behind schedule despite it being over six months away. As a result, the College might vote to cancel the ball in its current form, requiring the organising committee to postpone the ball until Hilary term.
Merton’s Winter Ball is renowned for being Oxford’s only white tie winter ball. The ball takes place every three years and is organised by JCR and MCR students at the college. Postponing the ball to Hilary would be a first in Merton’s history.
In reply to concerns about the ball’s postponement, the organising committee told Cherwell that: “while it is true that there were some initial administrative challenges, particularly around clashes with college building works, the committee has made significant progress and remains fully committed to delivering a memorable white tie ball.
“At present, the date of the ball is yet to be finalised, as we continue coordinating with the college and vendors to ensure the best possible experience for attendees. The committee has been hard at work behind the scenes and are assembling an exciting lineup of vendors and entertainment. We are confident that the final result will meet and exceed the high expectations traditionally associated with this event.”
The College events committee, comprising fellows and administrative staff, which will determine the fate of the ball is yet to meet, so no official verdict about the ball’s postponement has been reached. However, Cherwell understands that the College’s provisional calendar for the 2025/26 academic year lists the Winter Ball as taking place in November.
Merton’s last Winter Ball was held in Michaelmas 2022 and included headline acts from the singer-songwriter writer Dylan, as well as Capital FM’s Will Manning.
According to the committee, tickets for this year’s ball are expected to go on sale over the long vacation.
Merton College was approached for comment.
