MAY BALL 2026 HIGHLIGHTS
On another gloriously sunny May evening, over 460 guests gathered beneath a stunning marquee on Richmond Green to attend this year’s glamorous Richmond May Ball. The event began with a sparkling champagne reception, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of celebration and generosity.
During the lavish dinner, guests were moved by two short films highlighting the work of the Ball’s chosen charities for 2026: The Purple Elephant Project, which provides creative therapies for children facing challenging experiences and The Poppy Factory, which helps veterans and their families rebuild their lives through employment support.
The generosity of guests was evident throughout the evening, beginning with an energetic donations appeal led by auctioneer Tim Stansbury. This was followed by a hugely successful Prize Draw and Live Auction featuring an array of glamorous and exclusive experiences. One of the highlights of the Auction was Live Art by Ben Mosley. which provided a memorable focal point during the evening, as guests watched him bring Richmond Bridge to life on canvas in real time. The Silent Auction also attracted enthusiastic bidding throughout the night, helping to make the fundraising efforts a tremendous success.
Lindt CEO Joel Burrows delivered a heartfelt and inspiring speech about the impact of the two charities, reminding guests of the importance of the evening’s fundraising efforts.
Following the excitement of the auctions and prize draw, guests danced the night away to the fantastic band Easy Tigers and enjoyed a variety of entertainment, including casino tables, cocktails, a chocolate fountain, cheese station, photo booth and fiercely competitive arcade games, before carriages at 1am.
Now in its 30th year, the Richmond May Ball continues to bring together the local community in support of exceptional causes, combining elegance, entertainment and philanthropy in spectacular fashion. The organisers would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, donors, guests, suppliers and advertisers whose generosity and support made the evening possible - with special appreciation to principal sponsor Oscars of London for their continued commitment and support of the Ball.
The Ball raised £150,000 to contribute to the charities' vital work.
MAY BALL 2026 SPONSORS
