A gala is a large, festive celebration or party, usually formal and elegant. When a museum holds a gala to raise money for new exhibits, guests might wear fancy clothes, enjoy special food, and celebrate the museum's work together. Schools sometimes host gala performances where students showcase their talents in music, dance, or theater.

The word suggests something grander than an ordinary party. A birthday party at home is just a party, but a fancy 50th anniversary celebration with hundreds of guests, live music, and elegant decorations would be a gala. Charities often hold gala dinners where people pay to attend, knowing their money supports a good cause while they enjoy an elegant evening.

Gala can also be an adjective describing something festive or celebratory in general. You might hear about gala occasions or gala events, meaning special celebrations that bring people together for something important or joyful. The word carries a sense of glamour and importance: galas mark moments worth remembering.