What Happens at the Dinner
The White House Correspondents' Dinner is a formal event where about 2,600 people gather for a meal and entertainment. The president typically attends and sometimes gives remarks. A professional comedian is hired to perform a monologue roasting the president, politicians, and the news media. The event is serious in purpose but fun in tone, with jokes and laughter throughout the evening.
History and Tradition
The dinner started in 1921 as a way for reporters to get to know each other and government officials. Over time it became one of the most famous events in Washington. Presidents have attended since the 1920s, though some presidents have chosen to skip the event. The tradition of having a comedian perform started in the 1980s and became the highlight of the evening.
Who Attends
The White House Correspondents' Association, made up of journalists who cover the president daily, organizes the event. The sitting president is invited and usually attends. Reporters from major news organizations, cable networks, and online media attend. Celebrities, actors, and other famous people are often invited as guests to make the event more interesting and entertaining.
Purpose and Fundraising
The dinner serves as an important fundraiser for journalism education. Money raised supports scholarships for students studying journalism and funds programs that protect freedom of the press. The event also celebrates the importance of news reporters covering the government and holding leaders accountable. It brings together the press and government in a lighthearted way outside of their normal tense relationship.
Modern Controversies
In recent years, some people have debated whether the dinner is appropriate since it blurs the line between journalists and entertainment. Critics say reporters should keep more distance from the government officials they cover. The relationship between the press and the president has become more tense, leading some presidents to skip the dinner in recent years. 
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