2026 Gala Dinner & Drinks Reception
Dedicated to celebrating and advancing the construction sector across the region, Kent Construction EXPO is the ultimate showcase of this dynamic industry. It brings together professionals from across the built environment for a day of networking, insight, innovation and business opportunities, before culminating in the Gala Dinner – one of the highlights of the EXPO calendar.
The evening begins with an exclusive Drinks Reception, available only to Gala Dinner guests, offering the perfect opportunity to continue conversations and make new connections in a relaxed setting.
Guests will then enjoy a three-course dinner accompanied by live music from Ebonie G and the BBE Band Trio. Performing throughout the Drinks Reception and dinner, Ebonie and her band will create a sophisticated atmosphere with a mix of Soul, Motown, R&B and contemporary classics, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Following dinner, James Dowdeswell takes to the stage as this year’s headline entertainment. A storytelling stand-up comedian and writer, James is known for his sharp observational humour, quick wit and natural audience interaction.
As seen on Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC) and Extras (BBC), James has performed extensively across the UK and internationally. His comedy draws on everyday life, British culture and the characters and experiences we can all relate to, delivered with a warm, down-to-earth style. He is also the award-winning author of The Pub Manifesto: A Comedian Stands Up For Pubs.
With special thanks to our Drinks Reception Sponsor, DHA, and Gala Dinner Sponsor, Sena Group Ltd. If you’re interested in supporting one of the most anticipated evenings in Kent’s construction calendar, please get in touch to discuss sponsorship opportunities.
Drinks Reception
Sponsor
Sponsor
Gala Dinner
Sponsor
Sponsor
James Dowdeswell
Ebonie G
Register to Book Tickets
Individual tickets are £136 +VAT, which includes access to the exclusive Drinks Reception, a delicious three course meal and engaging after dinner entertainment. Planning to impress your clients or celebrate with your team? Book a table of 10 for just £1330 +VAT.
Dress code: Black Tie Welcome
To add a touch of occasion to this year’s Gala Dinner, black tie is encouraged for those who’d like to dress up for the evening. However, we know many guests will have spent the day exhibiting/attending the EXPO, so it is by no means expected. Lounge suits and smart business attire are equally welcome.
Please note: If you are exhibiting at Kent Construction EXPO, you can now book your networking tickets via the main registration form.
Interested in Sponsoring?
Align your company with one of the sector’s most anticipated evenings. Sponsorship provides a unique platform to showcase your business, build lasting connections and engage directly with the people shaping the future of construction in the South East.
To request more information click here.
Join 2026 Gala Dinner Attendees, including:
Aice Technology, Apex Contractors Ltd, Baxall Construction, BJF Group, Buxton Building Contractors, Chartway Partnerships Group, CRL Contacts Ltd, DHA, Drees & Sommer UK, Evans & Langford Consultants Ltd, GSE Group, GVE Commercial Solutions Limited, Henderson & Taylor, Infinity Fire Prevention, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Kier Construction, Kings Power Solutions, Lyons Electrical, Morgan Sindall Construction, Neilcott Construction, NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield, Now Construction Ltd, Orbital Building Control, Sena Group Ltd, SGS Energy, Social Enterprise Kent CIC, Sylvania Group, Thackray Williams, The Digital Lookout, The Woodley Coles LLP, Thorlux Lighting, and Vantage Building Control.
Gala Dinner Agenda
Running Order
4.30pm
Drinks Reception hosted by DHA Planning with live music from Ebonie G and band (exclusive to Gala Dinner attendees only)
5.30pm
Call for Dinner
5.45pm
Welcome from Tudor Price, Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
5.55pm
Welcome from our Gala Dinner Sponsor – Andy Morgan, Client Liaison and Brand Ambassador, Sena Group
6.00pm
Dinner is Served
8.30pm
Last orders at the bar
8.45pm
Bar closes
8.45pm
Tudor to introduce James Dowdeswell
8.50pm
After Dinner entertainment: James Dowdeswell. As seen on Russell Howard’s Good News (BBC) and Extras (BBC), James is a storytelling stand-up comedian and writer and is known for his sharp observational humour, quick wit and natural audience interaction.
9.20pm
Closing remarks from Tudor Price, CEO, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce
10.00pm
End of Event*
10.15pm
Please note: The venue must be vacated by this time, so please do book taxis in advance!
