No-el time like the present: Tickets now on sale for annual Christmas Gala in aid of Suffolk's Armed Forces community

29 October 2026

The Suffolk branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has released tickets for its annual Christmas Gala. Held at Ipswich's Venue 16 from 6pm on Saturday 28 November, the festivities have been organised to benefit local veterans, serving personnel and their families. 

The Christmas celebrations are open to all who wish to celebrate the local Armed Forces community whilst enjoying an evening of entertainment, fine dining, and fundraising. 

Guests will be treated to a complimentary drinks reception, courtesy of Venue 16, before having the opportunity to have festive photographs with Santa and Mrs Claus. Jade Mayjean, local singer-songwriter, and former contestant on BBC's The Voice will treat guests to a selection of original songs and festive classics. A two-course gala dinner and fundraising games and raffles are also part of the programme, followed by an evening of dancing. 

The Christmas Gala, now in its third year, will also see guest of honour, The Lord-Lieutenant of Suffolk, Mark Pendlington, give a speech on the night. A passionate champion of Suffolk for more than three decades, Mark has dedicated his career to supporting communities, volunteering, education, enterprise, and opportunity across the county. 

Robin Needham, event organiser and Community Engagement Volunteer for SSAFA Suffolk, commented: "Christmas is a time to celebrate the power of community and bring people together and we're delighted to host SSAFA Suffolk's third Christmas Gala. It's the biggest event of the year for our Branch, and it's great to see so many people getting into the festive spirit whilst also raising much-appreciated funds for our local veterans, serving personnel and their families." 

"Whether you're attending with friends, family, colleagues or clients, this promises to be an evening filled with laughter, festive cheer and the opportunity to make a real difference."

Tickets are available via the SSAFA SuffolkTryBooking page at £65pp. Discounts are available for tables of 10 (£600) or 12 (£700) guests. Venue 16 will open its doors from 6pm, with carriages at midnight. Proceeds from every ticket brought help to support the work of SSAFA, continuing to provide lifelong support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families when they need it most.