On Monday 5 May - the worlds of film, fashion, music, sports, politics, and social media will collide to grace the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art for its annual Costume Institute Benefit. With the big night approaching, here’s your all-access pass to everything you need to know - from the dress code and guest list, to what actually happens inside... What's the point of the Met Gala?It started in 1948 as a society midnight supper, attended mainly by New York's elite. It has since evolved over the years into the star-studded extravaganza we know today. Now one of the most photographed events globally, it is renowned for its head-spinning displays on the red carpet and lavish celebrity outfits or - straight-up batshit crazy if you're Jared Leto...It's important to note, however, that the Met Gala serves a purpose: it raises money for the museum's Costume Institute. Last year, it raised nearly $26 million (€25m), setting a record for the self-funding department. It also launches the annual spring exhibit, which on its own attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to the museum.But it’s the carpet itself that draws the world’s eyes, with the 400-strong guest list the subject of rabid speculation until the very last minute. How can I get a ticket?Getting a ticket to the Met Gala isn't as simple as just buying one - it's a highly exclusive, invite-only event. You'll need to be pally with Anna Wintour, the Vogue editor-in-chief who personally approves every guest. Or you'll need to plead with a major fashion house, like Chanel or Louis Vuitton, for an invite. So if I were among the rich, famous and invited, how much would it cost?Well, you might not pay yourself. Generally companies buy tables. A fashion label would then host its desired celebrities. Tickets have in the past cost $50,000 (€49,000) for an individual, and $300,000 (€281,000) or more for a table!What is the theme of this year's Met Gala?This year's dress code is “Tailored for You,” a nod to the accompanying exhibit's focus on suiting and menswear. This year's exhibit “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” will run longer than previous shows at six months, and is inspired by Monica L. Miller's book, “Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity.”It's the first Met Gala exhibit in more than 20 years to focus exclusively on menswear, specifically Black style in menswear over the centuries.“The theme this year is not only timely,” said Usher, "but also speaks to our rich culture that should always be widely celebrated.”The Met says the show “presents a cultural and historical examination of Black style from the 18th century to today through the lens of dandyism.” Who are the co-chairs of this year's Met Gala?Pharrell Williams, Lewis Hamilton, Colman Domingo, A$AP Rocky and LeBron James are the co-chairs, along with Anna Wintour, who oversees the gala each year. The MET have also announced a “host committee”, including a slew of Black luminaries from various fields: like athlete Simone Biles, filmmaker Spike Lee, actor Ayo Edebiri, musicians Doechii, Usher, Tyla, Janelle Monáe and André 3000; author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and playwright Jeremy O. Harris. Last year's edition saw Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Chris Hemsworth, and Bad Bunny as the co-chairs, under the theme of “sleeping beauties." What goes on inside?While the inside of the event is a highly secretive affair, with a strict no photos or reporters policy in place, here's what we do know: After the A-list guests make their grand entrance on the red carpet they head inside, where they're greeted with cocktails and an exclusive first look at the Costume Institute’s latest exhibition.The evening then continues with a formal dinner and often features a surprise live performance from a music icon. Past performers include Cher, Rihanna and Madonna. Cool-cool-cool. Totally fine. Not jealous at all. Absolutely thrilled to just be watching from home. When and where is the Met Gala taking place? The Met Gala will take place 5 May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Guests are expected to start arriving around 10pm, with the event starting from 6pm (EST) in New York. How can I watch?Last year, Vogue, put on a live-stream of the red carpet on its website and digital platforms. While it's not been confirmed, it's likely they'll do the same this year. If you’re in New York, you can also join fans across the street, behind barricades, on Fifth Avenue or even further east on Madison.Make sure to check back with Euronews Culture, as we'll be compiling the best fashion looks and covering all the most talked-about moments. Bring it on!