As some of the most important dates in a philanthropist’s diary, these charity galas offer a chance to put on your finest, network, and savour some world-class food and entertainment. Here are seven to book while you still can.
The Treloar’s Gala Dinner, Guildhall, London
24 April, £185pp
In aid of Treloar’s; a charity providing education, therapy and care to physically disabled young people, this year celebrates their 20 year anniversary. With a DJ set by Martin Kemp and an Emerald City theme, the party is hosted by the Lady Mayor and presented by radio and TV personality, Micheal Kurn. Tickets include a drinks reception, three-course dinner and silent and live auctions throughout the night. There’s only a handful of tickets left, so be sure to snap them up. www.treloar.org.uk
The Mariposa Ball and Awards, Landmark Hotel, London
25 April, £230pp or from £2,100 for a table of 10
Goodwill hunters can also head to this celebrity-packed gathering the following night. Raising funds for Mariposa International, supporting people through baby loss and infertility, rub shoulders with names in the world of politics, business and media, while sipping Champagne and enjoying a three-course dinner with entertainment. Hosted by Bake Off’s Briony May Williams, and Sky Sports’ James Green, famous faces including Tamzin Outhwaite and Max Beesley will be there. Then there are the goodie bags, worth over £120. Think of it as do-good-feel-good maths. www.mariposaball.org
The Big Dream Makers Ball, The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London
16 September, £350pp or from £3,250 for a table of 10
The only national charity granting wishes for children with a disability or serious illness living in poverty, this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their work and inspire future support. While this year’s celebrity entertainment is still being kept secret, the calibre is guaranteed to wow. Previously hosted by Russell Kane (above), this year’s host is British Paralympian, Will Bayley MBE. Expect an evening of elegant hospitality, exquisite meal and the opportunity to bid for amazing lots at auction. www.thebigtablecharitydinner.co.uk
PowerBall at London Hilton on Park Lane, London
6 November, from £5,495 for a table of 10
Here’s another excuse for decadent dining, entertainment and networking. Raising funds for the Electrical Industries Charity, it supports people working in the electrical industries going through life’s challenges. Circulate with a flowing drinks reception before taking your seat for dining and live performances. You can also support the cause with a high-end raffle and silent auction, going home with your hands, stomach and heart all feeling deliciously full. www.electricalcharity.org
Bowie: Live on The Loch The Black Tie Gala, Cameron House Resort, Loch Lomond
7-8 November, from £2,500pp
Prefer rock and roll with your Rioja? This exclusive weekend celebrating David Bowie includes a black-tie gala dinner in aid of Save The Children. Showcasing a menu crafted by Michelin-starred chef, Graene Cheevers, it’s followed by a guitar auction of signed treasures hosted by Bowie’s bandmate, Earl Slick. There will also be screenings of never-before-seen Bowie footage and photography throughout the weekend. And, before the main event, there’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Bowie’s Glastonbury band perform on the shores of the Loch. www.bowieliveontheloch.com
The Macmillan Ball, The Victoria & Albert Museum, London
19 November, from £5,500
Previously raising £475,000 to support people living with cancer and their loved ones, this year promises Champagne, fine dining and an after-party to remember. Household names such as Al Murray and Denise Van Outen have hosted the night in past years, and while this year’s host is still top secret, it has all the markings of being one of the best yet. Dress to impress and network savouring unlimited tipples, or snap up some exclusive items at the silent and live auction. www.macmillan.org.uk
The Winter Ball at The Dorchester Hotel, London
28 November, £450pp
Finally, arriving before the festive season, this glittering extravaganza has raised a £23 million for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice over the past three decades. Offering a bill crammed with star-studded entertainment and hosted by presenter and actor, Bradley Walsh, enjoy a three course meal and the chance to bid yourself into oblivion for covetable artefacts. Finish by settling in for a night of a world-class cabaret and live music. www.noahsarkhospice.org
