Dress Attire
Marines:
- The Evening Mess Dress w/Mini Medals
- Blue Dress “A”
Please keep in mind the uniform change for female Marines effective 1 October, 2022 (MARADMIN 596/18)
Navy:
-Mess Dress w/ Mini Medals
-Service Dress Blue w/ Large Medals
*Pregnant Marines and Sailors will wear the service maternity uniform if available. “Currently there is a shortage in obtaining the maternity uniform”, individuals who fall into this category may request a waiver to wear an Evening Gown.
*Any uniform waivers must be routed through the Chain of Command and submitted to the Commanding Officer, HQBN for final approval. (MCO P1020.34G/OPNAVIST 6000.1C).
Civilians:
Black Tie / Formal
Ladies: Long Evening Gown (floor length)
Ladies shoe/heel restrictions:
This year, we have the privilege of holding our USMC Birthday Ball on the Saints football field at the Superdome! An incredible venue given to the Marines, by a very special donor! However, there will be shoe restrictions because of the turf (a spongy plastic surface) that we MUST adhere to for safety and liability purposes.
Although high heeled shoes are very stylish for this type of occasion, we cannot stress enough, that high heeled shoes of any length, WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BE WORN to this year's ceremony. Doing so may result in injury from twisted, sprained or broken ankles, as well as the heels create a liability of turf damage - which the Command is not willing to accept.
Flats, wedges, and chunky heels of 2" in height and at least a 2” heel/base or more are the ONLY acceptable shoes that may be worn to this occasion. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause, but you will not be admitted into the Superdome without a shoes inspection first. Bare feet will NOT be permitted. Non-compliance will be DENIED entrance.
Shoe/heel restriction wavier:
Female Military Officers and SNCOs who have purchased tickets and planned to wear their Evening Dress or Mess Dress Blue Jackets to the 247th Marine Corps Birthday Ball NOLA Ceremony.
A waiver has been authorized for those who plan to wear the Evening Dress or Mess Dress uniform ONLY to a maximum heel allowance of 3 inch as prescribed by the Marine Corps Uniform Regulations. If you do not plan to wear this uniform, you will abide by the current restriction previously published. Please be aware that the Superdome has issued warnings and restriction for Shoe Heel due to Turf liabilities and high risk of foot injuries. Please take extra precautions and care to ensure your safety on the evening of the ball while walking/dancing on the turf field during this event.
Marine Corps Uniform Regulations: CH5 b. Black suede or fabric pumps will be worn with evening dress uniforms. Heels will measure from 1-1/2 inches to 3 inches in height. The base of the heel will measure from 3/8 by 3/8 inch to 1-1/4 by 1-1/3 inches. MARADMIN 361/08.
Other Notes:
*Marines are directed to change from Dress Blue “A”s to dress Blue “B”s if choosing to wear a uniform out in town before/after the ball; however, take extra precaution while traveling in areas known for crime. Follow instructions provided by the MFR G3/G5 Threat, Enforcement and Safety Department. *
*Covers are optional, when traveling by foot from one of the local hotels*
*Age Limit: There is no age limit for the Marine Corps Birthday Ball Ceremony, however please keep in mind the ceremony has a few ceremonial solemn moments. During these sensitive protocol phases, please do your best to ensure distractions are eliminated from the overall execution of the ball i.e. GOH/Color Guard moving, National Anthem, Marines Hymn, etc..