Question 1

1. Who can attend?

Accepted Answer

The Austin Marine Corps Birthday Ball is open to everyone. Marines, veterans, Active Duty service members, Reserve and National Guard members, military families, friends, civic leaders, corporate partners, and community supporters are welcome. A valid ticket is required for admission.

Question 2

2. Do I have to be a Marine to attend?

Accepted Answer

No. Everyone is welcome. Whether you served, support someone who has, or simply want to honor Marine Corps traditions, we invite you to join us for this special evening.

Question 3

3. What is the dress code?

Accepted Answer

Marines may wear authorized Dress Blue or Evening Dress uniforms. Other service members may wear their branch’s formal uniform. Civilian guests should wear black tie or formal evening attire. Casual attire is not permitted.

Question 4

4. I’ve never attended a Marine Corps Birthday Ball. What should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Expect an evening of Marine Corps tradition, formal dining, fellowship, ceremony, music, dancing, and celebration. Whether it is your first Birthday Ball or your fifteenth, we are honored to celebrate with you.

Question 5

5. Will there be a discounted hotel room rate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fairmont Austin rooms start at $173/night plus taxes and fees for Nov. 13–15, 2026. Hotel reservations are separate from Ball admission and subject to availability. Use the official room-block link to book.

Question 6

6. Is parking available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Paid self-parking and valet parking are available at Fairmont Austin. Final parking instructions and any event-specific rates will be emailed to registered attendees before the event.

Question 7

7. Will there be a silent auction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Guests may participate in the silent auction throughout the evening. Proceeds support Guidon Austin’s mission of serving veterans, service members, and military families.

Question 8

8. Can my business or organization become a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

Guidon Austin for levels and availability. Change it to say they can select and purchase an available sponsorship level directly through Eventbrite, with events@guidonaustin.org for questions.

Question 9

9. Can I sit with my friends, family, or military unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Guests may submit a seating request during registration. We will make every reasonable effort to seat guests with their requested family, friends, organization, or military unit, but seating arrangements are subject to availability.

Question 10

10. Are tickets refundable?

Accepted Answer

Tickets are generally nonrefundable unless the event is canceled or rescheduled. Please review the refund policy listed with your ticket before completing your purchase.

Question 11

11. Is dinner included with admission?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Admission includes a formal plated dinner. Guests will select their entrée during registration.

Question 12

12. Will a vegetarian option be available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A vegetarian entrée option is available. Guests may select their meal preference during registration.

Question 13

13. Can dietary restrictions or food allergies be accommodated?

Accepted Answer

Guidon Austin will work with Fairmont Austin to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies when reasonably possible. Guests should provide dietary information during registration. The venue cannot guarantee an allergen-free or religiously certified food-preparation environment.

Question 14

14. Will alcohol be available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alcoholic beverages will be available during the event in accordance with Fairmont Austin policies and applicable laws. Guests must meet all legal age requirements to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages.

Question 15

15. What time does check-in begin?

Accepted Answer

Guest check-in begins at 4:45 p.m. The formal program is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to check in, visit the selfie station and celebration photo area, preview the silent auction, and find their seats.

Austin Marine Corps Birthday Ball