There are places in Philadelphia that you think you know, until you step inside. Girard College is one of them.

Behind its gates sits a remarkable 43-acre campus, defined by grand architecture, sweeping courtyards, and nearly two centuries of Philadelphia history. It is a place that has long been part of the city's story, but remains unfamiliar to many.

For one night, Girard College will become the setting for the 2026 Beaux Arts Ball, transforming its historic campus into a celebration of art, architecture, fashion, performance, and creativity. This year's theme, Be Revolutionary: America Turns 250, feels particularly at home in a place so deeply connected to Philadelphia's history and its belief in the power of ideas.

The choice of Girard College is no accident.

Founded in the 19th century through the vision and philanthropy of Stephen Girard, the institution was built around an ambitious idea: that education could change the course of a young person's life. Its campus was designed to reflect that sense of purpose, with architecture that remains one of the city's most distinctive historic environments.

Nearly two centuries later, that spirit of possibility continues to make Girard College an extraordinary place to experience.

And experiencing it during the Beaux Arts Ball will be something else entirely.

Imagine moving through historic spaces. Architecture becomes part of the celebration. Fashion, performance, music, and design unfold against a backdrop that carries generations of Philadelphia stories. That sense of discovery is part of what makes the evening so compelling.

On October 24, Girard College will be one of them.

 

Be Revolutionary: America Turns 250
2026 Beaux Arts Ball
October 24, 2026 | Girard College