Mess Dinner 2026 (Cadet Banquet)
What is a Mess Dinner?
A Mess Dinner is a formal dinner that comes from a long military tradition. For our cadets, it’s one of the highlights of the training year: a chance to put on their dress uniforms, practise formal etiquette, and celebrate the squadron together.
The evening follows a set structure that the cadets learn ahead of time. Guests are welcomed and seated, the head table is piped or marched in, and the meal is served in courses. Throughout dinner there are traditional customs such as formal toasts, a cadet appointed as “Mr. or Madam Vice” who helps run the evening, and a few light-hearted rules of the mess that keep things fun. Cadets take part in all of it, and you’ll get to see firsthand the discipline and confidence they’ve been building all fall.
Families are welcome
For the second year in a row, we’re opening the Mess Dinner to parents, siblings and loved ones so everyone can share in the celebration. No experience is needed. Just follow your cadet’s lead and enjoy the evening.
Event details
- Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2026
- Time: 6:30pm
- Location: Chestnut Hill Recreation Center
- Dress: Cadets in dress uniform. Guests in upper casual attire.
Tickets
- Parents and adult guests: $25
- Children 12 and under: $10
- Cadets: free (please still register your cadet so we have an accurate headcount)
Tickets go on sale Tuesday, November 18.
Please purchase all tickets for your family through this page.