Submitted Photo A Canadian pipes and drums group performs at a past International Military Ball in Minot, shown in this Minot Air Force Base photo. This year will be the 31st year of the annual event.

The International Military Ball, a formal evening with a gourmet meal and entertainment, is planned for Saturday, April 6, at the Grand Hotel in Minot.

The 31st annual black tie event kicks off with a social at 6 p.m., according to information from the Minot Area Chamber of Commerce. This will be a time to take formal photos and go through the receiving line comprised of commanders of Minot AFB and Canadian counterparts.

The formal meal will start at 7 p.m.

On the menu is classic minestrone soup, bacon-wrapped shrimp with red pepper coulis, wedge salad drizzled with ranch dressing, baby carrots and plum tomatoes, grilled 12-ounce New York strip steak topped with cremini mushrooms poached in herbed butter and crunchy fried shallots, squash, red pepper and red onion vegetables, mashed Yukon gold potato with butter and creamy herb cheese and red velvet cheesecake for dessert.

Canadian Pipes & Drums and U.S. Air Force Heartland of America band, Raptor, will entertain. The Minot AFB Honor Guard will also participate in the event. Dancing will end the evening.

Dress is officers, mess dress; enlisted, mess dress or semi-formal; and civilians, formal attire.

The military ball is open to everyone – military and civilians. Cost is $75 per person. For more information or to register call the Chamber at 852-6000 or email chamber@minotchamber.org.