"To attend the reception" means to go to and be present at a social gathering or party organized to celebrate a particular event or to welcome someone. Full definition
But whether I ever attended a reception where the Russian ambassador was also present is entirely beside the point of this investigation into Russian interference with the 2016 campaigns. (businessinsider.com)
The cost to attend the reception alone will be $ 1,000 per person, while a ticket to the reception and the dinner will run $ 2,500 a pop. (nystateofpolitics.com)
Many federal staffers from Congressional offices and important committees attended the reception. (petproductnews.com)