Annual gala
The annual gala is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious and wonderful celebrations of academic life. These celebrations usually follow a long and traditional pattern, consisting of four parts: an elegant cocktail reception, a formal main party, a cheerfully relaxed after-party and a delicious herring breakfast the following morning. The dress code must be strictly observed and any medals of honour must always be visible at the party. This will ensure the dignity of the celebration and respect for tradition.
Don’t advise others on etiquette unless specifically asked, so that everyone is comfortable.
The main ceremony
Guests arrive at the party, dressed in formal or evening attire and wearing their academic merit badges. The dress code can be found either on the invitation or on the anniversary flag. On entry, guests shake hands with the chairpersons of the association and find their named seats on the table. Avecs usually sit facing each other. Please remember to indicate the name of the avec when purchasing your ticket.
Guests stand behind their chairs until everyone is present and is allowed to sit. It is polite to help the person seated on your right to be seated. Allow the opportunity to follow etiquette, but do not point out if someone acts otherwise.
Handbags are kept on laps or on the back of the chair. Introduce yourself and strangers to each other to create a comfortable atmosphere at the table.
The main gala can include food, performances, and songs.
Dinner
Cold food starts when the whole table has had its share, and hot food when the people sitting around you have had theirs.
Highlights of the event include a keynote speech, presentations, and greetings from stakeholders. Although the party includes snaps and snappy songs, the annual party is a dignified occasion and you should behave accordingly.
After a song, everyone raises their glass first to the left front pew, then to the right front pew, and finally to the front. Glasses do not touch, and there is always eye contact.
During the main ceremony, it is not appropriate to leave the table until the main course is finished and the ceremony master has called a break.
At the beginning of the break, the ceremony master will announce the time at which the break will end. The timetable must be adhered to so as not to delay the program. However, if you leave the table it is polite to wait on the sidelines if there is a song or speech in progress. You may move back into the ballroom when the speech or song is finished.
After party
The after party is usually in a secret location, but often in a bar in the city center. You no longer have to follow the etiquette rules at the after-party, you can throw them out of your mind and just have fun. It’s a good idea to be prepared to pay for your drinks at the after-party, as the dinner card does not include drinks at the after-party.