Armstrong's Inaugural Ball

Saturday, January 18

Bismarck Event Center | Bismarck, ND

Countdown to First Pitch!

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this event Is sOLD out! no walk-ups allowed!

About the Event

Celebrate the Inauguration of North Dakota’s 34th Governor, Kelly Armstrong, and step up to make a difference! We’re hitting it out of the park with a special night inspired by Kelly’s roots as an American Legion baseball coach, complete with nods to America’s favorite pastime.

This vibrant event will honor North Dakota’s new leadership with an evening of hors d’oeuvres and meaningful connections. Together, let’s take action to support our community— bring non-perishable food items to the event to help stock the shelves of the Great Plains Food Bank.

Admission is free, but RSVP is required. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Great Plains Food Bank and the North Dakota FFA Foundation. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate, contribute, and leave a lasting impact!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Timeline:

5:30 PM: VIP Social Begins (INVITE ONLY)
7 PM: Doors Open – Bismarck Event Center
7:45 PM: Program begins with special remarks and recognitions
8:15 PM: Governor Armstrong’s Ceremonial First Pitch
8:30 PM: Beni Paulson & Breaking Eight Perform

Venue Address:

Bismarck Event Center – 315 S 5th St, Bismarck, ND

Enter from Event Center Doors E43 (View the map here)

Attire:

This is a black tie event — a complimentary coat check will be available at check-in when you enter.

What To Expect

Live Music

End your night with a FREE concert from Beni Paulson and Breaking Eight, a high-energy country rock band from North Dakota. Get ready for music that's "born on the back of a bull." Their positive, edgy sound appeals to all ages, promising a great time filled with incredible country rock. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable live performance!

Charitable giveback

We’re proud to share that a percentage of all donations from this event will directly benefit two remarkable organizations making a statewide impact across North Dakota: the North Dakota FFA Foundation and the Great Plains Food Bank. Bring non-perishable food items to the event to help us make a difference across the state of North Dakota.

Great Plains Food Bank's Impact (2023)

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ND FFA Foundation: Making An Impact

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ND FFA Members

ND Chapters & Programs

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Important Event FAQs

What do I bring to the event?

Great Plains Food Bank is looking for these most-needed items:

Canned meat (tuna, chicken)
Cereal and cereal bars
Canned fruit and vegetables
Box meal kits (Mac and cheese, hamburger helper, etc.)
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Diapers
Shampoo/conditioner

Are kids allowed at this event?

Yes – your entire family is invited to join us for this historic event. Each attendee, no matter their age, is required to RSVP for the event.

Where are the hors d’oeuvres from?

Hors d’oeuvres are sourced from local caterers in Bismarck/Mandan, including:

Laughing Sun Brewing Co. (VIP ONLY)
Lady J’s Catering
Dickey’s Barbecue – Mandan
Ole & Ottos Catering
Bismarck Event Center
Exceptionally Nuts

Make a donation to support the event's mission

Help support the Governor’s Heritage Foundation‘s mission during Armstrong’s Inaugural Ball to support two remarkable organizations making a statewide impact across North Dakota: the North Dakota FFA Foundation and the Great Plains Food Bank. Raised funds donated to these local organizations support initiatives like addressing food insecurity and furthering agricultural education among students – both in the state of North Dakota.

The Governor’s Heritage Foundation is formed for charitable purposes and will donate a portion of the proceeds from this event, including all donations, to the charities listed. The purpose of the Governor’s Heritage Foundation is to create awareness, advocacy, and raise funds for statewide charitable efforts who improve the everyday lives of North Dakotans. The foundation will honor and celebrate the efforts of the executive branch of the State of North Dakota.

Premier Partner

We wouldn’t be able to host this event without our generous partners. Want to get involved? Contact Jacy Schafer at director@governorsheritagend.org