Formal Meal

In the earliest days of the college, residence students gathered to eat the main meal of the day in a formal setting. Much like today, the students all wore academic gowns and heard traditional Latin graces, and etiquette rules were in place. These basic, simple formalities have remained relatively unchanged for some 200 years.

Formal Meal is held once a semester, providing an opportunity for faculty, staff, students to dine together and listen to guest speakers. Attendees wear their academic gowns, and students stand until the head table arrives and the Latin grace has been said (or sung!). The gowns, the grace and the ritual have become familiar territory for King’s students and alumni; an essential part of what it means to be part of the King’s community.

5:50 p.m.     Students to arrive and line up outside Prince Hall

6:00 p.m.     Formal Meal begins when the Head Table guests process from the President’s Lodge Prince Hall

7:30 p.m.     Formal meal ends

Students, please arrive at Prince Hall at 5:50 p.m. sharp to line up. Chartwells will get students in as quickly as possible. Doors will close after the head table procession.

Ticket information

Residence Students
Residents will swipe their meal card when they arrive.

Day Students
The KSU will sponsor 50 tickets for Formal Meal. The KSU will communicate how one can claim a ticket closer to the event.

Staff, Faculty or UKC Non-Student Community Members
An email inviting you to RSVP for the Head Table will be circulated soon. An RSVP is required as the Head Table will have assigned seating and seats are limited.

Academic Gown Information

Attendees must wear a black academic gown to attend Formal Meal. Academic gowns will be available for pick up. The gown pick up location will depend on who you are:

• Residence & Day Students:
  • You can pick up an academic gown in the lobby of the New Academic Building before 5:50 p.m.*
• Head Table Guests:
  • You can pick up an academic gown in the Senior Common Room.

*First year students who are Matriculating on September 17, you will already have a gown to wear for that ceremony, you can continue to wear it for Formal Meal.

We encourage students to “come as you are.” Gowns are just one part of the tradition of Formal Meal. You are welcome to dress up if you want, but it is not a necessity. We encourage you to dress in ways that reflect your identity, including your cultural heritage.

Menu

Chartwell’s has crafted a wonderful menu featuring:

• Chicken chasseur served with hunter sauce
• Marinated tofu & vegetable kebabs with cumin scented rice for those who are vegetarian or vegan
• Caramelized root vegetable with dill
• Savory potato croquettes with caramelized onion and herbs
• Strawberry shortcake for dessert

We look forward to welcoming everyone to a treasured tradition here at King’s!