East Rutherford, NJ — On the evening of Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Governor Mikie Sherrill celebrated the start of her term with a distinctive inaugural ball at the American Dream Mall, embracing a venue that embodies the spirit and flair of New Jersey. The mall’s NHL-size ice rink was transformed into an elegant black-tie setting, welcoming approximately 2,000 guests for a night that blended New Jersey culture, music, cuisine, and community-focused philanthropy.
The Rink, typically home to skating events and hockey games, was reimagined with sleek black flooring and patriotic red, white, and blue accents. Adding a personal touch that honored Sherrill’s Navy service, a full-scale Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King helicopter greeted attendees near the entrance, offering a unique photo opportunity and serving as a striking symbol of the governor’s military background. The attention to detail in the venue design demonstrated a commitment to making the inaugural celebration both memorable and deeply tied to local pride.
Entertainment for the evening leaned into New Jersey’s cultural heritage, highlighted by a performance from East Orange natives and iconic rap group Naughty By Nature. The crowd erupted when Governor Sherrill herself joined the group on stage, donning a “Naughty By Nature” hoodie, dancing, and even reciting verses from the legendary hit “O.P.P.” Her engagement with the performance underscored a playful yet authentic connection to her home state, blending high-profile politics with genuine cultural celebration.
Culinary offerings showcased the diversity and flavor of New Jersey’s food scene. Guests enjoyed themed stations like the “Jersey Diner” table, serving signature disco fries, while other tables featured celebrated local establishments such as White House Subs from Atlantic City and Camden’s Corinne’s Place. The food selections reflected the governor’s intent to highlight businesses and culinary traditions rooted in the Garden State, providing a delicious tour of New Jersey without leaving the rink.
The event drew an impressive roster of attendees from politics, sports, and entertainment. U.S. Senator Cory Booker, U.S. House Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation were in attendance, alongside former Giants star Tiki Barber. The gathering offered a rare convergence of leadership, celebrity, and local pride, all centered around celebrating a new chapter in New Jersey’s governance.
Tickets for the black-tie ball were priced at approximately $350 per person, with proceeds directed to Mission to Deliver NJ, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising public awareness of community service, economic development, and civic engagement. Through the event, Governor Sherrill highlighted the importance of connecting high-profile celebrations to meaningful causes, ensuring the evening left a tangible impact beyond its festivities.
By choosing the American Dream Mall, Governor Sherrill not only showcased one of New Jersey’s most recognizable venues but also reinforced the state’s unique blend of entertainment, commerce, and culture. The use of a mall setting for such a formal event symbolized accessibility and modernity while embracing a location that resonates with residents across the state. For those looking to explore New Jersey beyond politics, the mall represents a microcosm of the state’s shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings, with further resources available through Explore New Jersey’s shopping coverage.
The inaugural ball succeeded in capturing both the ceremonial gravitas of a gubernatorial celebration and the distinctive character of New Jersey. With its combination of music, cuisine, cultural nods, and charitable impact, the event exemplified a contemporary approach to political celebrations while highlighting the state’s dynamic local businesses, talented performers, and vibrant community spirit. Guests left with memories of a night that was as entertaining as it was meaningful, setting a high standard for future public events in the Garden State.
