What's the vibe at the West Point All Academies Ball?

I heard about the West Point All Academies Ball and it sounds pretty interesting. Can anyone share what it's like and whether high schoolers can attend or just current cadets and midshipmen?

The All Academies Ball is a formal event traditionally held around the holiday season. The Ball is an opportunity for cadets, midshipmen, and officers from various U.S. service academies, such as West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Coast Guard Academy, to socialize and network. The event generally includes a formal dinner, speeches from distinguished guests, and, of course, a dance.

It's important to note that the ball typically caters to current students of service academies, as well as alumni and staff. Because the event is designed to foster camaraderie among individuals connected with the service academies, high school students and the general public usually aren't invited unless they are guests of academy students. However, the exact rules can vary by year and location, so it's always best to check with the event organizers if you're interested.

Overall, the mood of the event is festive, yet respectful, befitting the dignity and tradition of the U.S. service academies. Despite the formal setting, there's usually an underlying sense of excitement and pride in attendance.