The Marine Corps Birthday is one of the biggest social events of the year for Marines all over the world.

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On 10 November 1775, the Second Continental Congress resolved to raise two battalions of Marines. Congress commissioned thirty-one year old Samuel Nicholas, a well-known Philadelphian, as captain of the fledgling force of Continental Marines.

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From Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Nicholas raised two battalions of Marines as directed and began the long illustrious history of the United States Marine Corps. Every year since 1925 the founding of the Marine Corps has been celebrated with a Birthday Ball. On or around the 10th of November each year, whether Marines are in the thick of battle or at peace, we always take a moment to observe the birth of our illustrious Corps.

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At a minimum Marines generally practice the tradition of cutting and sharing a birthday cake, as well as reading the Commandants' birthday messages. When possible, Marines prefer to celebrate the birth of our distinguished military organization with a formal military ball.

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Generally the only people who get to experience this event are the Marines and their dates. A few distinguished guests from around the country and globe get the honor to attend the Commandant's Ball in Washington D.C. State Department personnel and foreign dignitaries look forward to attending the event hosted by the Marines stationed at the U.S. embassies around the world.