The Met Gala 2025 event is under way in New York City on the first Monday in May. Guests began arriving for the annual fundraising event celebrating the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute exhibition.
The event, a major fixture on the fashion calendar, draws celebrities and public figures. Red carpet arrivals started shortly after 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Most attendees were expected to walk the carpet closer to 6 p.m. ET, with the evening’s events concluding around 9 p.m. ET. The question of What Time Does the Met Gala Start for viewers often centers on when red carpet coverage becomes widely available.
Live coverage from the arrival area showed the blue carpet marked with daffodils. Despite rain earlier in the day, the carpet itself remained dry as attendees stepped out.
Initial arrivals included Teyana Taylor, who was among the first to be seen. Other early guests included Emma Chamberlain and Christian Latchman.
The Met Gala serves as the opening celebration for the Costume Institute’s exhibition, this year titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” The exhibition highlights the significance of clothing and style in shaping Black identities.
Co-chairs for the 2025 event include actor Colman Domingo, Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, musician A$AP Rocky, and artist Pharrell Williams. LeBron James serves as an honorary chair. Colman Domingo and Lewis Hamilton were seen arriving early. Ego Nwodim and Emma Chamberlain also appeared on the carpet.
The event is the primary funding source for the Costume Institute. This year’s gala has reportedly raised $31 million for the institute, surpassing the previous year’s total. Anna Wintour, who oversees the event, was present.
Pharrell Williams arrived with Helen Lasichanh. La La Anthony also walked the carpet. The gathering continues as more guests arrive throughout the evening.