The Met Gala, known for its exclusivity and high-profile attendees, isn't just any event; it's a spectacle of fashion, art, and celebrity that happens on the first Monday of every May. But there's a big reason behind its exclusivity, and it's not just the approval of the Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. In fact, it's the $75,000 entry ticket that gives most people a pause. The ticket price in 2024 was notably higher than the $50,000 in 2023—but the question is, is it worth it? Here’s a glimpse into the lavishness and unique experiences offered at the iconic event.
The Gala Raises Millions Every Year
Beyond the glitz, every ticket sold funds the Costume Institute's preservation of fashion history. Raising $26 million this year, the gala remains New York's top fundraising event, giving every attendee a sense of contributing to something timeless. Every donation helps inspire the next generation of style, making it one of the most anticipated events in the world of fashion.
Exclusive Access to the Best Event in NYC
Receiving an invite to the Met Gala is the ultimate seal of approval. Anna Wintour curates a list where every name represents top-tier glamor and influence. With seating arrangements crafted to spark connections, you're likely to find yourself mingling with powerful moguls and celebrities who could change your life in a single conversation.
Witness Iconic Red Carpet Arrivals
The red carpet isn't just an entrance; it's a battleground for style supremacy. This year, Zendaya channeled the "Garden of Time" theme while Tyla rocked a Balmain gown made of sand that hugged her silhouette so well that she literally had to be carried up the stairs. It's safe to say that she stole the spotlight with the dramatic train and a unique hourglass purse, setting social media on ablaze.
Accessories Worth a Million Bucks
It's not just a gala; it's a showcase of some of the priciest accessories on the planet. This year, Usher turned heads with a $3 million watch, setting the standard for Met Gala bling. But this was nothing in comparison to the $25 million Cartier jewelry Rihanna rocked at the 2023 Met Gala, which by far tops the list of the most expensive accessories ever worn to the Gala.
Celebrities in the Most Expensive Gowns
Every gown on this carpet is a carefully curated masterpiece, reflecting months of meticulous preparation. Kim Kardashian's Marilyn Monroe dress from 1962 set the bar for luxury fashion, and for good reason. The dress is one of the most expensive ones in the history of Met Gala at a whopping $4.8 million. The battle for the best-dressed star is the most exciting aspect of the event. After all, these dresses are more than garments—they're works of art.
Red Carpet Can Go on for Hours
The red carpet showdown starts around 6 p.m. and can go on for hours, depending on how late celebrities arrive. With a ticket to the Gala, you can easily spend hours mingling with the stars on the red carpet before the event even starts. In 2023, Rihanna stole the show in her white gown, which transformed into a cape, creating a headline moment that would carry on into the after-parties. But what most headlines missed was that she arrived at the museum at 10 p.m. But she's Rihanna, so of course, no one said a thing!
Cocktail Hour Is Where the Fun Begins
The cocktail hour is where luxury is served on a silver platter. This year, the Charles Engelhard Court hosted a crowd buzzing on cucumber margaritas and trays of champagne, alongside tuna tartare bites and hearts of palm. Every detail fit the night's whimsical theme, and mingling with fellow attendees was half the fun. Still not worth the price tag, you think?
Exclusive Previews
With the $75,000 ticket, you also get to wander through the exhibit halls and witness nearly 100 ensembles curated like three-dimensional quilt patches. This year, each piece captured emotions like nostalgia and joy, inviting attendees to experience fashion as both art and history. It's like stepping into a time capsule, feeling the pulse of past decades.
Experience a Unique Exhibit Every Year
This year's special exhibit, "Sleeping Beauties," felt like peering into a fashion treasure trove. With 50 historic and fragile pieces on display that can never be worn—only admired from afar—it must have been a bittersweet experience for the star-studded attendance. The Met's 33,000-piece fashion collection spans seven centuries, offering a rich context for these delicate masterpieces that will never be worn again. It's a glimpse into sartorial heritage rarely seen by the public.
You Could Even Meet Jeff Bezos
The networking potential here is unmatched, with 600 guests rubbing elbows, from Jeff Bezos to international fashion designers. The gala isn't just a party—it's a fertile ground for new partnerships, ideas, and business opportunities. You could be one conversation away from your next big project.
The Ticket Doesn't Even Cover the Table Cost
At $350,000, tables are the ultimate expression of status and strategy as brands vie for prime seating. Every arrangement must pass Anna Wintour's scrutiny, ensuring each guest feels connected and poised for interesting conversation. Securing your seat at one of these tables signals that your company is playing with the big leagues.
Dinner and a Show
The Met Gala is nothing without the drama! Every year, the dinner announcement is made in a unique way. This year, the sound of the drums ushered the attendees into the dining hall. Guests move to their seats, not just for a meal, but for a performance that intertwines with the dining experience, making each course a scene in its own right.
Celebrity Performances
Every year, the Met Gala delivers surprise performances that are kept secret until the very last moment. In 2024, Ariana Grande and her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo stole the show with a magical performance that left the audience spellbound. From Bieber's iconic denim-on-denim ensemble to legacy acts that echo past themes, these performances are exclusive shows within the show, giving attendees a musical treat that perfectly complements the evening’s magic.
Themed Decor
The tables aren't just set; they're designed. Inspired by historical events and past fashion icons, each table is a work of art, complete with hand-painted candelabras and peonies, echoing the evening's theme and adding an extra layer of elegance.
Drinks Flow Freely (Including Diet Coke)
From the first champagne toast to the last drop of Diet Coke, the beverages are as curated as the guest list. Whether it's a vintage wine or a bespoke cocktail, each drink complements the night’s lavishness.
Exclusive After-Parties
The event may end, but the parties are just beginning. So if you have a ticket, you might get invited to one of the most exclusive afterparties, like the one Usher threw last night with a "Secret Garden" theme, similar to the theme of the Met Gala this year. The party brought New York's A-list to the dance floor, where Mos and D-Nice kept the beats thumping. According to reports, guests swayed to hits like "Good Kisser" until 3 a.m.
Late-Night Snacks
The Times Square Edition embraced the "Garden of Time" theme for the after-party this year, serving midnight bites like burgers, hot dogs, and soft-serve ice cream prepared by Chef John Fraser. Fresh cocktails with Volcan Tequila and Belvedere Organic provided the perfect refreshment after a long night.