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Annual Banquet

Friday 1st December 2023

Start: 6.00pm | Finish: 10.30pm

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The most glittering event of the Guild’s calendar is the Annual Banquet in the magnificent medieval surroundings of Guildhall, watched over by Gog and Magog. Members and their guests will be welcomed by the Master before enjoying a sparkling reception in the Old Library interrupted by the fanfare as our Patron, the Lord Mayor and the Lady Mayoress accompanied by the Sheriffs and their consorts arrive to join us. The Master's speaker is Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC First Sir Lord and Chief of Naval Staff. The formal announcement that dinner is served will then lead onto a sumptuous four-course dinner accompanied by excellent wines. The whole evening will be one of colour and pageantry provided by the Pikemen and Musketeers from The Honourable Artillery Company, a wonderful selection of music including the rousing Post Horn Galop, and finally a high-profile guest speaker (name TBC), all combining to show the City, Guildhall and the Guild at its best! Why not celebrate the start of the festive season with a bang on the Friday evening and continue with a weekend in London!

While we would prefer gentlemen to wear white tie, black tie will be acceptable. We hope this will make the banquet accessible to many more members and their guests.

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""The Guild was formed in 1908 for all fellow Freemen of the City of London – today we number almost 1,600 members from all backgrounds, and from a wide range of professions. In addition, our Annual Programme is the City’s most extensive. It features events with privileged access for Members and their guests, ranging from opportunities to dine in London’s finest Livery Halls, to less formal activities. Our Annual Banquet is a highlight of the Guild’s calendar and attracts members from all over the world.

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