What Nights Are Elegant Nights on Carnival Cruise?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a Carnival Cruise, you might have heard about “elegant nights” and wonder what they are and what to wear. Elegant nights are special evenings on the ship when guests dress up for formal dining and entertainment. Here is everything you need to know about elegant nights on Carnival Cruise.

What are Elegant Nights?

Elegant nights are a long-standing tradition on Carnival Cruise ships. They are formal evenings that take place in the main dining room and some specialty restaurants. This is an opportunity for guests to dress up in their best attire and enjoy a luxurious evening of fine dining, dancing, and entertainment.

When Are Elegant Nights Onboard?

Carnival Cruise schedules elegant nights based on the length of your cruise. Generally, cruises that last between 3-5 days will have one elegant night, while those that last 6-8 days will have two elegant nights. Cruises lasting 9 days or longer may have three or more elegant nights.

What To Wear On Elegant Nights?

Carnival Cruise has a dress code for elegant nights, and it’s crucial to follow it to avoid being denied entry into the main dining room or other venues. The dress code varies depending on the length of your cruise.

For cruises lasting 2-5 days:

  • Gentlemen: Collared shirts, slacks, and closed-toe shoes
  • Ladies: Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, skirts/blouses

For cruises lasting 6-8 days:

  • Gentlemen: Suits or sports coats with slacks
  • Ladies: Formal dresses or evening gowns

For cruises lasting 9 days or longer:

  • Gentlemen: Two formal nights require a tuxedo, suit, or sport coat with slacks
  • Ladies: Two formal nights require cocktail dresses, evening gowns or dressy pantsuits.
  • On other elegant nights, the dress code is the same as for cruises lasting 6-8 days.

What Happens on Elegant Nights?

On elegant nights, there are several activities and events you can participate in. The main event is the formal dining experience in the ship’s main dining room. The menu features exquisite cuisine and includes a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and wines.

After dinner, there are plenty of entertainment options to choose from. You can enjoy live music performances at the piano bar or dance to the sounds of a live band at the ship’s nightclub. There are also Broadway-style shows and comedy acts that take place in the ship’s theater.

Conclusion

Elegant nights on Carnival Cruise are an excellent opportunity to dress up and indulge in a luxurious evening of fine dining and entertainment. Make sure you follow the dress code guidelines to avoid any issues with entry into venues. With proper planning and attire, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on your next Carnival Cruise vacation.