2026 Ceremony Schedule

Awards Ceremony Schedule

Join us for an unforgettable day celebrating excellence in the UK charity sector.

Event Date

14 October 2026

Save the date

Duration

11:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Gala lunch celebration

Venue

Holiday Inn Peterborough West

Thorpe Wood, Peterborough

Order of Proceedings

An overview of the afternoon's schedule and key moments.

Please note: This programme is subject to change. Any amendments to timings will be communicated to all attendees. No changes to scheduled times will be made later than ninety days before the event. Full terms and conditions apply.

11:30

Arrivals & Networking

Guests arrive at the venue, collect their table assignments, and enjoy welcome drinks in a relaxed setting. This is the first opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet new faces from across the charity sector, and soak up the atmosphere of the day. Conversations begin, introductions are made, and the tone for the afternoon is set.

The Grand Foyer
60 minutes
12:30

Welcome & Introductions

The formal programme opens with a warm welcome from the host, introducing the National Charity Today Awards™ and outlining the flow of the afternoon. Guests are welcomed, sponsors acknowledged, and the importance of coming together to celebrate impact across the charity sector is highlighted.

The Buckingham Suite
15 minutes
12:45

Three-Course Gala Lunch

Guests are served an exquisite three-course gala lunch, prepared by award-winning chefs. This is a moment to relax, enjoy the hospitality, and continue conversations at the table while taking in the occasion and surroundings.

The Buckingham Suite
100 minutes
14:25

Raffle & Auction

The afternoon continues with the raffle and auction, offering guests the chance to support the event through a range of carefully selected prizes and experiences.

The Buckingham Suite
15 minutes
14:40

Magic

Guests are treated to a live magic performance by Oliver Couchman, also known as Revilo Twist.

The Buckingham Suite
15:00

First Round of Awards Presentations

The first round of awards.

The Buckingham Suite
45 minutes
15:45

Entertainment

Guests enjoy live entertainment, providing an uplifting and celebratory interlude in the afternoon.

The Buckingham Suite
15 minutes
16:00

Second Round of Awards Presentations

The second round of awards.

The Buckingham Suite
45 minutes
16:45

Closing Remarks

The afternoon draws to a close with final remarks from the host. This includes words of thanks to sponsors, partners, nominees, and guests, as well as reflections on the day’s celebrations and an announcement regarding next year’s National Charity Today Awards™.

The Buckingham Suite
15 minutes
17:00

Photographs & Interviews

Following the formal programme, winners, finalists, and guests are invited to take official photographs and participate in short interviews. This provides an opportunity to capture memories of the day and share stories of impact across Charity Today’s platforms.

The Grand Foyer
60 minutes

Important Information

  • Dress Code: Navy and Gold theme
  • Arrival Time:: Please arrive by 11:30 AM for registration
  • Parking: Free parking available at the venue, register vehicle at reception
  • Photography: Professional photographers will be present throughout the event
  • Dietary Requirements: Please inform us of any dietary requirements via the menu form at least 14 days before the event

Questions About the Event?

For more information about the ceremony, venue details, or accessibility requirements, please get in touch with our events team.