On 16 October we’re back at Magazine London for the annual Gala Ceremony , celebrating and recognising the best packaging design, and designers from around the globe.

And this year, it’s set to be bigger and better than ever before, here’s why.

Celebrate 20 years of great design

Every year, our goal is to create more than just another gala ceremony. From dance-offs and bingo to supermarkets and edible perfume, the Pentawards Gala is all about unforgettable experiences.

Twenty years of Pentawards marks two decades of recognising the ideas that have shaped packaging design—from disruptive challenger brands and luxury icons to sustainable innovations and beautifully crafted everyday objects. It's a moment to reflect on how far the industry has come while looking ahead to where it's going next.

To celebrate our 20th anniversary, this year's Gala will be our biggest celebration yet, with a night full of surprises and a few nods to our milestone birthday. Expect the unexpected—and be there for the unforgettable moments that can only be experienced in the room.

The people behind the packs

The Gala is an opportunity to celebrate not only the work, but the people behind it.

Bringing together the best global designers, brands, agencies and makers responsible for the packs that have defined the year, it's one of the few occasions where the global packaging design community gathers under one roof, with attendees travelling from the US, China, New Zealand, Albania and beyond—not on screen, but in person.

As the winners are revealed live, there's a real buzz in the room. Whether you're celebrating with your team, thanking your clients or recognising everyone who played a part in a winning project, it's an unforgettable moment to share together.

See award-winning packaging up close

The Gala is also a fantastic place to soak up design inspiration. Throughout the venue, guests will have the opportunity to experience award-winning packs on the big screen.

New for 2026, our gallery wall will showcase the top-winning packs, giving guests the chance to see some of the world's best packaging design up close. These are the kinds of pieces that deserve to be experienced in person, so have your cameras and notebooks ready.

Where the packaging community connects

The Gala isn't just where the industry celebrates, it's where connections are made.

It's a chance to catch up with familiar faces, meet new people from across the global packaging design community, and connect with the judges, designers, brands and agencies shaping the future of the industry. Whether you're celebrating a win, sharing ideas over a drink or making a new introduction, some of the most valuable moments of the evening happen away from the stage.

And once the trophies have been handed out, it's time to celebrate. The Gala has always been as much about the people as the prizes, with great food, music and plenty of opportunities to let your hair down after another year of incredible creativity. It's the perfect way to celebrate the industry's achievements together.

Early bird tickets are on sale now.   Every year the Pentawards Gala sells out, so secure your place early and join the global packaging design community for our biggest celebration yet.