THE
RICHMOND
MAY BALL
The Richmond May Ball is an event woven into the very fabric of Richmond life. This black-tie affair marks the elegant start of the May Fair weekend, set against the picturesque backdrop of the historic Richmond Green. Guests are welcomed with a champagne reception, followed by an exquisite evening of fine dining, premium wines, a lively cocktail bar, and an exciting auction. Entertainment includes dancing to a live band and a variety of offerings, ensuring a memorable night for all. Each year, the event draws over 450 attendees.
Over the years, the Richmond May Ball has raised more than a million pounds for around 20 local charities.
The 2027 Richmond May Ball will be held on Friday, 7th May and will support Small Steps and The Harlequins Foundation.
FOUNDERS
'The pandemic gave us a greater sense of our local community and the importance of Richmond's Open Spaces. This is an opportunity to deliver a spectacular evening on Richmond Green for local residents and their guests whilst raising much needed funds for two very deserving local charities'
BOB & VIVIEN HARRIS
CHARITIES 2027
Based in Richmond, Small Steps has supported more than 1,000 disabled children and their families since 1998. They provide free specialist early intervention support for children from birth to five years with cerebral palsy, physical disabilities, syndromes, and sensory needs.
Through their structured daily group sessions, children are supported to develop physical, communication, social and independence skills, with a particular focus on physical development. Parents take an active role in every session, learning practical techniques and strategies alongside their child, helping them feel informed, confident, and empowered to support their child's progress beyond the session.
Small Steps also provide families with a welcoming, nurturing, and supportive community, connecting them with others who understand the realities of raising a disabled child, helping them build lasting friendships and feel less alone in their journey.
Right here, in Richmond upon Thames, young people are finding their confidence, their skills, and the next step in their journey through sport. The Harlequins Foundation, the charitable arm of Harlequins Rugby Club, harnesses the power of sport and the spirit of Harlequins to empower young people with the essential skills they need to succeed. The foundation is based at The Stoop in Twickenham, and Richmond is one of six London boroughs where young people are supported every single day.
HITZ is a post 16 academy run with Richmond upon Thames College, where mentoring, classroom learning and sport rebuild the confidence to move into work or training, helping those that leave school without a plan for their future. METTLE is for a primary school pupil struggling to cope. This is where eight to eleven-year-olds learn to name what they are feeling and handle it. SWITCH is for a girl who has never believed sport was for her. Six weeks that will end with her on a rugby pitch for the first time.
These and other programmes have enabled The Harlequins Foundation to create immense social value enabling young people to walk out stronger than they walked in. The May Ball will support the Richmond based efforts of the Foundation.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
A spectacular night of elegance and celebration, attended by more than 450 guests.
From champagne on arrival to exquisite food and fine wines, the night is packed with unforgettable moments. Enjoy the thrill of live auctions and a prize draw, then dance the night away to a live band or engage in a variety of entertainment throughout the evening.
