Obviously, our party has a strong vampiric theme. We do our best to create an atmosphere that suggests dark romance, a hint of danger, sensuality, and all things nocturnal. We do not promote nor do we allow the drinking of blood or any other unsafe practices at our events. Our guests are attracted to the beauty of the vampire archetype to varying degrees - some have flipped through an Anne Rice book once or twice; others are walking encyclopedias on the history of the vampire; some feel deeply personally drawn to the vampire legend; some just think they're sexy. Our patrons come from all over the country and sometimes overseas. Typically, almost half of our patrons are from at least 100 miles away from Philadelphia. Our guests are a diverse group, representing a wide range of ethnicities, religions, orientations, ages, and lifestyles.

The Ball features two live bands who play short sets during the event. Our bands and DJs come from around the world; a number of European bands come to play their first-ever American concert at the Ball. A list of bands along with photos of some previous entertainers can be found in the photo gallery. Our guest DJs play music in a variety of genres to fit our general mood, including gothic, new wave, industrial, synthpop, metal, EBM, eighties, world music, and more. Fast, slow, sensual, hard, dark, mystical, heavy, loud, lush; the list of musical adjectives is long. The Ball also features the talents of other performers, artists, and craftsmen. Everything comes together to form an event that we feel is unique, entertaining, exotic, and exciting - and our regular guests would seem to agree.

Photo cameras are welcome at Dracula's Ball. Video cameras are not. The Ball is open to guests of all ages. In accordance with state law, alcohol is served in a physically separated portion of the venue. No one under 21 is admitted to the alcohol service area, and no alcohol is ever allowed out of the service area. Drugs of any kind are strictly prohibited at the Ball, as are weapons, no matter how cool they look. The safety of our guests, staff and entertainers is of paramount importance to us.

What do we suggest you wear to the Ball? Well, we do not have a dress code as such, because we understand that interesting and exciting people come in many configurations, and not all of them happen to own $500 black latex form fitting catsuits. That having been said, we do try to present a certain theme and level of panache at the Ball, and accordingly, we encourage certain styles of dress. After all, if you want to see people in jeans and T-shirts, you can go to any old bar or club.

There are several local shops that can help outfit you. Want to raid your closet for something to wear? Read on! Our vampiric theme lends itself to a number of styles. The classic Victorian Dracula look is always appropriate. You can even stretch a bit and go with a Renaissance or medieval look if you like. Poet's shirts, bodices, top hats, and the like are quite acceptable. The modern vampire look (Blade, Lost Boys, Underworld) is also quite popular - slinky black dresses, leather pants, vinyl skirts, leather jackets, mesh shirts, and the like will fit in quite well. Formal wear is also suitable - elegant dresses and tuxedos are welcome, although you may find them a bit restrictive to dance in. Business attire will be noticeably out of place.

While you won't be turned away in a t-shirt and jeans, by dressing down you will be missing out on part of the fun at the Ball. It's a special occasion; make the most of it! It only takes a little effort to dress a bit differently. Of course, you can always put a lot of effort into it and make everyone else jealous!