More than just an awards night, the Pentawards Gala is about creativity, community, collaboration and craft. It’s where industry leaders from brands and agencies around the globe celebrate and honour the best packaging design of the year.

And more than that, it’s about the feeling and experience, the unmatched electricity in the room, the feeling of pride for you and your team, the joy of recognition and connection. This year, it’s set to be the same brilliant celebration, but a brand new experience in an exciting new city. So read on to find out more about what the packaging design night of the year is REALLY all about.

A moment of glory

Recognition in design can be rare. This is your moment, to get up on stage, to be seen, celebrated and honoured. Getting up on stage, celebrating your work, winning a trophy feels electric, or so we’re told. It’s a moment of validation, teamwork and innovation. It’s a moment of pride for the whole team and your clients too, so hold that trophy high and lap up the energy, it really is about you.

Our professional photographers will also make sure they get snaps of you on stage, so you’ll have a chance to push this out on your channels, and more importantly – remember this night forever.

If your company is a winner, when you buy a gala ticket you also get one trophy included (no shipping or purchase costs necessary) so it’s a no brainer to join us!

More than just an awards night

It’s not just about the trophy - our goal is to create a night that goes far beyond your average industry event. Expect a celebration packed with packaging inspiration (you’ll want your notes app handy), exceptional food and drink, unexpected moments, and plenty of good vibes.

Here’s just a few teasers of what’s in store this year:

•  Last year we had the innovative Winners Market and UPM are back this year bringing another fun element of surprise to the Gala, we don’t think this one will be on your bingo card…

• We always like to throw in a few moments of fun as we know awards can be long. Think competitions, musical instruments, dance-offs, group selfies and more.

• An epic new venue in a fantastic new city awaits you. For our first time in Amsterdam we’ve leaned into the industrial feel of the neighbourhood at the Kromhouthal which also has a beautiful setting alongside the IJ River. We’re looking forward to transforming this iconic venue for you

• As well as a 3-course, locally-sourced gala dinner and drinks, we’ve got some added extras for you to look forward to. Our gin partner Tanqueray will be joining us once again for a very special toast to kick off the awards – a highlight of last year, and will provide their famous G&T’s throughout the night.

• We couldn’t be in Amsterdam without Heineken being our official beer partner. This year they’re bringing the Heineken Experience to the gala with Heineken Studio, a very special experimental bar – in a big green truck. This will be the Heineken Studio trucks first run-out and you’ll be there to experience it! Not only will they provide Heineken beers for the table, they’ll also be serving up their Mokum 750 beer, specially brewed for the 750 year celebration of the city.

Packaging meets party

We can tell you one thing for sure – the packaging community know how to party. The energy at our gala is always unmatched and we’ll be continuing the party till 1am with a dance floor and a brilliant local band filled with talented musicians. With the gala falling on a Saturday this year, there's no need to take time away from the studio - it's the perfect excuse to make a weekend of it in this brilliant city. And with Amsterdam celebrating its 750th anniversary, the city will be alive with events and energy.

Make it a night to step away from the desk, dress up, connect with peers, and raise a glass to the craft of design. It’s a chance to thank your team and clients, boost morale, and celebrate the work you’ve created together.

Community and connections

Always a global event, last year saw attendees from over 30 countries come together to celebrate. The atmosphere is upbeat, open, and full of energy- everyone’s ready to connect, share ideas, and spark new collaborations. And if nothing else, you’ve already got one thing in common: a passion for great packaging design.

We’ve already got some brilliant names on the guestlist from the likes of Suntory, Lego, Carrefour, Servaire & Co, CBA Design, Supperstudio, Yamaha Corporation, Studio Kluif, Derek&Eric, Haleon, Red Setter, Colgate, Pearlfisher & more.

We’ve sold 70% of gala tickets and with less that 6 weeks left, now’s your time to get a ticket . We can’t wait to celebrate alongside you!