The Drinks Trust is delighted to announce the return of its annual Gala, following the outstanding success of last year’s event. For the first time, the charity will host the Gala at London’s historic Guildhall on Wednesday 14th October 2026, bringing the drinks industry together for an unforgettable evening of celebration, connection, and charitable impact.
This year, the event will be co-hosted by renowned wine experts, TV personalities, and long-standing Drinks Trust Patrons Helen McGinn and Olly Smith, whose warmth, wit and professionalism will ensure that guests once again enjoy a fun evening with industry colleagues.
Now firmly established as a key date in the drinks industry calendar, the Gala will welcome over 400 influential guests from across the sector, including producers, retailers, hospitality leaders, and brand partners. The black tie evening will celebrate the achievements of the drinks industry people while raising essential funds to support The Drinks Trust’s growing services and initiatives.
Helen McGinn comments her participation to the Gala: “I can’t think of a better event to host alongside my beloved TV wine husband Olly and we can’t wait to celebrate all the wonderful work of The Drinks Trust with a glass in hand.”
Olly Smith adds: “I’m delighted to be co-hosting The Drinks Trust Gala this year with Hels and cannot wait to kick up our heels and raise our glasses to the roof in celebration of this tremendous cause. Come and join us!”
The night will begin with a Champagne Taittinger reception in the atmospheric Crypt, offering guests the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet industry leaders, and enjoy one of the most iconic spaces in the City of London. Guests will then move to the magnificent Great Hall for a beautifully crafted three-course dinner, accompanied by entertainment, fundraising moments, and inspiring stories that highlight the life-changing impact of The Drinks Trust’s work.
Nicky Burston, CEO of The Drinks Trust, encourages companies to join the event: “We are looking forward to welcoming guests from across the drinks industry to celebrate our 140 year legacy of working together, in a collaborative effort to support our colleagues in need.”
Following the first release to Business Partners of the charity, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now on general release but extremely limited. The Drinks Trust would love to extend its gratitude to the Gala Headline Sponsor Hillebrand Gori. For more information contact the Fundraising Team at partnerships@drinkstrust.org.uk or visit https://www.drinkstrust.org.uk/get-involved/events/upcoming-events/the-drinks-trust-gala-2026
