Grad
Ball
2024

Grad Ball is moving to The Vale for the first time in 2024. This is a change to the normal location and has meant that the timings of the event have had to change but everything students look for at this special end of year event remain.

Ticket holders have all been sent emails outlining the new details and you’ll find more information in the FAQs on this site.

Event Timings

Owing to the changes to the location of Grad Ball, there are amendments to the running order of the event due to different regulations being applicable on The Vale.

Grad Ball will now run from 4.30pm – 10:30pm offering the same number of hours of activity previously advertised. 

You can view a full event timeline below, so you know just what to expect when you get there: 

4.30pm – Doors open
5.00pm – Recommended latest wristband collection 
6.00pm – Recommended latest arrival time
8.00pm - Last entry into Grad Ball 
9.30pm - Main act
10:30pm - Grad Ball Closes
12.00am - Grad Ball After Party Starts
1.00am - Last entry into Grad Ball After Party
Grad Ball After Party is open until 6am. 

Please note, we want the event to run as smoothly as possible so you will need to arrive before the last entry times.

We appreciate that the earlier opening time for Grad Ball will be unexpected but can assure you that you are able to arrive any time up until 8.00pm, to fit around any prior commitments. You will still be able to enjoy our main act, fairground rides, karaoke, food vendors and more after 6.00pm.

We are not offering refunds for this event as only the location and timings of the event have changed. The regular and published elements of Grad Ball, which students look forward to year on year, all remain. We’re excited to be presenting a live act, fairground rides, karaoke, food stalls and more.

We are not offering refunds for this event as it is still taking place as planned, just in a different location. Opening times have been adjusted to meet new requirements and we are providing as much notice as possible to enable changes to any transport or other arrangements to be made.

We appreciate that not everyone will be able to arrive for the earlier opening time, but this is not unusual. Traditionally most attendees arrive at Grad Ball an hour or two after we open the doors; the new opening times may allow some to arrive earlier, helping to reduce queue times for rides or other activities. We recommend you arrive by 6.00pm to make the most of the event but will continue to receive attendees up until 8.00pm as stated on wristbands.

We can assure you that you will still be able to enjoy our main act, fairground rides, karaoke, food vendors and more after 6.00pm.

Each ticket holder will need to collect their wristband from Mermaid Bar (ground floor of the Guild next to Joe’s Bar) before the event. You can collect your wristbands at the following times:

Tuesday 11th June: 2pm-8pm
Wednesday 12th June: 2pm-8pm
Thursday 13th June: 10am-5pm

Please note wristbands must be collected by the person who purchased the tickets and the person collecting will need their student ID card with them to receive the wristbands. You’ll also need to bring a copy of any non-UoB guests’ ID (driving license or passport) so we can verify their name, age and address.

We have undertaken an assessment of the Vale with our event organiser and can confirm that we will be adding hard surfacing and matting covers in key areas to help to level the floors as much as we can to support those with physical disabilities. The fairground rides will be located on a hard surface and ground covers will be added to bars and food stall areas. However, not all the spaces in the food and drink areas will have matting and there will be some parts of the event where the ground is not completely flat or where matting hasn’t been possible.

We recognise that the change of location may cause some anxiety for students, particularly those with neurodivergence. We acknowledge this may require some attendance plans to be adjusted to provide reassurance and comfort with the change in the venue. We are happy to discuss some suggestions with you.

Should you have an accessibility concern, whether about accessing the Grad Ball site on the Vale or getting to and from the Guild for the After Party, please get in touch at: gradball@guild.bham.ac.uk so we can look at options with you.

I struggle with standing for any length of time. How can you help me get to the event and support me at the event?

We have provided information for the preferred drop off and pick up point for taxis, including the postcode: B15 3SX. This should help with entrance to and departure from The Vale.

We will be controlling the entrance to the event and can ensure staff are available to support you from your arrival, provided you let us know about your accessibility needs. This includes assistance to access the various activities and facilities. Please get in touch with gradball@guild.bham.ac.uk and we will be in contact.

We have food vendors offering Indian street food, toasties, fish and chips, and sweet treats. Nelly’s Delhi is offering Vegan and Gluten free dishes and Jojo’s Fish van is offering gluten free dishes on request. Check their menus for more details on the night.

To enter Grad Ball on the night, ticket holders will only need their Grad Ball wristband. Your wristband will be needed to access all the fairground rides and the facilities within the Grad Ball main site and must be worn at all times.

Signage will be in place to help you to navigate your way around the event and to travel between the Guild and the Vale.

If you are bringing a non-student guest to the event they will only need their wristband to attend as their details will have been registered when you collected their wristband. If you are attending the Grad Ball After Party your guest will need to join a separate queue to enter.

You must be 18 years or over to attend Grad Ball and the Grad Ball After Party. Please note while ID is not required for entry to the event as you will have been issued with a wristband, you may be asked for proof of your age by those serving alcoholic drinks. Challenge 25 will be in operation at both events.

Grad Ball @ The Vale is an open-air event so we recommend you check the weather forecast and dress appropriately on the day. Grad Ball After Party is held inside the Guild of Students.