The Black Cat Ball is the Official Party of the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards. This year’s Black Cat Ball is a Mesmeric Masquerade, a triple invocation of Edgar Allan Poe’s immortal legend: 180 years since the haunting cry of The Raven, 180 years since the chilling tale of Valdemar first mesmerized readers, and 150 years of the historic Poe Grave and Monument enshrining the poet who inspired equal parts dread and delight.
Dress in Victorian mourning, spirit-world couture, or your most mesmeric finery and enjoy an evening of hypnotic spectacle inspired by Poe’s fascination with the uncanny and the afterlife, perhaps even catch a glimpse of a certain poetic specter. Dance on the edge of dream and death, in a ballroom alive with gothic glamor. All tickets include:
RavenBeer/Wine Bar Reception & hors d’oeuvres
Private Viewing of the Poe Monument 150th Anniversary Exhibit
2025 Saturday ‘Visiter’ Awards Ceremony
Mesmeric Dance Party with DJ Marty and special guests
Tours of the famed Westminster Catacombs
A grave-side toast to Edgar Allan Poe
For guests who desire a more decadent descent into darkness, our VIP Mesmeric Lounge Package offers the ultimate Poe-inspired indulgence. Each package includes two tickets to the Black Cat Ball, reserved velvet banquette seating, and two signature cocktails delivered with funereal flair. Sip, spectate, and socialize from the comfort of your velvet perch—just don’t get too comfortable… the dead don’t rest easy here.
This party is 21+ over restricted; 100% ID Check!
NOTE TO POE FESTIVAL ATTENDEES: The party takes place at a location away from festival grounds, Westminster Hall, 519 W. Fayette Street in Baltimore. Pay to park at garages within 1 block of the venue.