Photojournalism: Black Tie 2026

After a one-year hiatus, the Willamette Event Board’s Black Tie Affair returned last Saturday. Encouraged to dress to the theme of a royal ball, many students spun about throughout the night in fancy dresses, only stopping for the occasional bite from the appetizers on offer, which ranged from ahi on cucumber to buffalo cauliflower wings, among other charcuterie options. The dance floor’s inhabitants ebbed and flowed depending on the song, with Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me” receiving — as was perhaps to be expected — a special enthusiasm from the crowd. With the event officially kicking off at 8 p.m., more students filed in around 9:30, flooding the Convention Center with new energy as the night flourished on.

All photos taken by Sofie Szigeti on March 7, 2026 at the Salem Convention Center.

Students pose for a photo. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

Students dress to impress. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

Beautiful colors and dresses. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

Deviled eggs, one of the appetizers offered. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

Students pose for the photo booth. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

The dance floor was full of smiles. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.

Students hop in a dance circle to show off their moves. Photo by Sofie Szigeti.