What to expect at the state dinner

The dinner is a black-tie event where many lawmakers, ambassadors and diplomats often are in attendance. Some celebrities have made appearances. This year, musician and Grammy winner Jon Batiste is set to perform.

“An artist who transcends generations, Jon Batiste’s music inspires and brings people together,” said Vanessa Valdivia, a spokesperson for first lady Jill Biden, whose office is overseeing dinner preparations. “We’re thrilled to have him perform at the White House for the first state dinner of the Biden-Harris administration.”

“Throughout all of these events, you can expect to see on display both our long shared history as allies as well as our deep partnership and taking on the most urgent global challenges of today and tomorrow.”

John Kirby White House spokesperson