Guernsey Press

‘Unrivalled showcase of revelry’ at Cambridge University May Ball

Students enjoyed a stunning fireworks display followed by a night of entertainment ranging from comedians to classical and jazz music.

Published
Last updated

Cambridge University students celebrated the end of their exams in style with a night of partying, with some still holding champagne glasses as they made their way home, dressed to the nines, as the sun rose.

The Trinity May Ball, a tradition dating back 153 years, is billed as the city’s “best ball, an unrivalled showcase of revelry”.

Cambridge University May Balls
People punt along the River Cam in Cambridge after a firework display at the May Ball (Joe Giddens/PA)

They enjoyed a stunning fireworks display followed by a night of entertainment ranging from comedians to classical and jazz music.

Cambridge University May Balls
Cambridge University students enjoy a punt ride along the River Cam (Joe Giddens/PA)

In years gone by, some of Britain’s brightest students have engaged in hedonistic behaviour, stripping off and jumping in the river, but this year more sipped from bottles of water than alcoholic drinks as they left the college.

Cambridge University May Balls
Some revellers hitched an unusual ride home (Joe Giddens/PA)

The ball has been held every year since 1866, apart from 1910, when King Edward VII died, and during the Second World War, between 1939 and 1945.

Cambridge University May Balls
Students share a kiss in a punt on the River Cam (Joe Giddens/PA)

Despite now taking place in June they are still called the May Balls as that is when they were originally held.

Cambridge University May Ball
A fireworks display marks the occasion (Joe Giddens/PA)
Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.