 It was formerly restricted to those former scholars of Winchester who were also scholars of New College, and distinguished guests.Until the reforms of the 19th century, there were three successive Election Dinners held during Election Week, culminating in a Domum Ball.Originally these festivities occurred around Whitsun, as suggested by references to early summer such as "See the year, the meadow, smiling" and "Now the swallow seeks her dwelling" in the song.