Cadet Dances

VMI cadets have a number of opportunities throughout the year to attend dances on post, whether with their fellow cadets or with dates and special guests.

Harvest Hop

Harvest Hop is the dance held on Friday night during VMI's homecoming weekend. Themes vary from year to year, such as Summer in the City, Hoe Down, and 70s Disco. Cadets and their guests can be found dancing the night away in a relaxed atmosphere under the lights in Cocke Hall with live music.

Attire:

  • Cadets - Class dyke, no cover;  Short White Skirt with Class dyke Shirt is authorized
  • Guests - Men: Business Attire w/ Tie; Ladies: Cocktail Dress

Cadets dance in uniform in Cocke Hall during Harvest Hop, a homecoming weekend event at VMI


Ring Figure Ball

The grandest of the dances at VMI, the Ring Figure Ball is part of the larger Ring Figure celebration as 2nd Class cadets receive their official VMI rings and celebrate one of the last major milestones of their cadetship before their 1st Class year. This event is typically held in November.

VMI cadets dance and pose for photos at the Ring Figure Ball


Midwinter Formal

This dance is held over two evenings, typically taking place in February. 1st and 2nd Class cadets enjoy the festivities one evening, and 3rd and 4th Class cadets attend the following evening. The last formal dance for cadets graduating in May, the Midwinter Formal offers a night of dance, music, food, and friendship.

The theme of the 2024 Midwinter Formal is Winter Wonderland-Sky Lodge.

Date: Mar. 8 [1st & 2nd Class cadets] & Mar. 9 [3rd and 4th Class cadets]

Time: 1930-2230 (7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.)

Attire:

  • Male Cadets: Coatee with white ducks. 

  • Female Cadets: Coatee and long white skirt. 

  • Civilians: Formal - Black Tuxedo and Floor Length Gown

VMI cadets at midwinter formals with their dates