Legion of Young Polish Women White & Red Ball

Saturday, February 28, 2026 / 5:00pm

The White and Red Ball, hosted annually by the Legion of Young Polish
Women, is a distinguished black‐tie gala that has been a cornerstone of
Chicago’s Polish‐American community since 1940.

Held at the Hilton Chicago, this elegant event features the formal presentation of
debutantes—a cherished tradition introduced in 1945 as the first “en
masse” debutante presentation in the U.S. Debutantes are presented
by their fathers or male relatives, donning white gowns and gloves,
while guests are expected to dress in formal evening attire, with
women in floor‐length gowns and men in tuxedos or white tie and tails.

The evening includes traditional Polish dances such as the Polonaise
and the Biały Mazur, culminating in the crowning of the Queen of the
Ball. Beyond its social grandeur, the event serves as the Legion’s
primary fundraiser, supporting various charitable, educational, and
cultural initiatives within the Polish community.