A Night to Remember: Bicentenary Gala Dinner and Dance March 2025
Following the historic Bicentenary Meeting and Warrant Presentation, the celebration continued late into the evening of Saturday, March 8, 2025, with a glittering Gala Dinner and Dance at the prestigious Apex City of Bath Hotel. Over 100 guests—including lodge members, brothers from our sister Lodges in Bath, distinguished Freemasons from across Somerset and beyond, and their partners and family—came together in style, celebrating the Lodge of Honour No. 379’s extraordinary milestone of 200 years.
As part of the evening’s experience, guests at the Gala were invited to register with our Tyler and his partner at the Guest Reception Desk located conveniently near the entrance to Lansdown Suite. Attendees received detailed to essential amenities, including the cloakroom, restrooms and seating arrangements for the evening.
Guests were also presented with a welcome drink voucher of which to redeem their tall glass of Prosecco from the adjoining room and bar. A refreshing drink to kick start the festive evening. Our attentive and welcoming reception desk duo extended their warm welcome and made our guests felt comfortable.
They also handed out to our guests a couple of small gifts each to remember the evening by. These were commemorative pens in pack black suede sleeves and dried English Lavender in a lilac organza bags with an accompanying message. These souvenirs and beautifully crafted commemorative programme booklets detailing the evening’s itinerary, history, the menu and list of officers are commemorative keepsakes designed to mark the bicentenary celebration.
An Elegant Evening of Celebration
Guests, elegantly attired in black-tie fashion, filled the Lansdown Suite. Gentlemen wore classic tuxedos, while ladies dazzled in sophisticated evening gowns and gala dresses, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The festive spirit commenced with a welcoming reception featuring drinks and lively conversation, providing a perfect opportunity for guests to mingle, reconnect, and forge new friendships.
The gala dinner drew visitors not just from Somerset but from further afield, including brethren and their guests from as far away as London, West Kent even the Isle of Guernsey, demonstrating the strong bonds of Masonic brotherhood.
The spacious Lansdown Suite with its high ceilings, special lighting, table setting, centerpieces, flowers and music from the DeeJay completes the celebratory atmosphere for the evening.
Reception
Thoughtful Reflections and Fine Dining
Before dinner commenced, the lodge’s Chaplain, W. Bro Allan Stanistreet, delivered a moving Grace, thoughtfully reminding all present to reflect on and extend their generosity to those less fortunate.
The guests enjoyed a meticulously curated three-course menu:
Freshly baked bread served with butter were on every table.
Starter: Chicken and Pancetta Terrine served with onion and grape chutney and toasted sourdough.
Main Course: Succulent chicken breast with red wine jus, accompanied by potato parmentier of sweet potato and baby vegetables.
Dessert: Rich and creamy New York cheesecake topped with a decadent caramel sauce and crunchy honeycomb.
Coffee: Freshly brewed coffee (or tea) served to round off the elegant dining experience.
Chocolates as part of the table centrepieces prepared by the Secretary’s wife was also a treat with the guests.
Memorable Speeches and Toasts
The Lodge Chaplain, W. Bro Allan Stanistreet, offered a touching moment of reflection after dinner, reminding everyone present to spare a thought for those less fortunate, underscoring the fraternity’s enduring commitment to charity and benevolence.
After returning grace by our Chaplain, the Provincial Grand Director of Ceremonies, W. Bro Garry Sharp, introduced the speeches, commencing with Provincial Assistant Grand Master Anthony Guthrie. His thoughtful words highlighted not only the historical significance of the bicentenary but how the lodge overcame many challenges in recent times. Our treasurer had the task of responding to the Province which he delivered promptly.
The next toast was from our Worshipful Master Geoff Ifill. He congratulated the brethren on a successful meeting and evening and acknowledged the support and understanding of family members and partners, an essential part in every Freemason’s journey.
A Night to Remember on the Dance Floor
Following dinner and speeches, guests took enthusiastically to the dance floor, enjoying a vibrant mix of classic hits played by the talented DJ from Celebration Roadshow. Favourites from Abba and other popular artists kept the dance floor lively and festive, helping build joyful memories for everyone in attendance. You can view photos from the Dance Floor below.
A Lasting Legacy
The Bicentenary Gala Dinner and Dance was more than just an elegant evening—it symbolised a genuine celebration of friendship, tradition, and fraternal unity. The event concluded successfully, leaving attendees reflecting fondly on an evening filled with camaraderie, elegance, and laughter.
As Lodge of Honour No. 379 proudly moves forward into its third century, this gala evening will fondly be remembered not only as a tribute to the lodge’s proud history but also as a testament to its vibrant future.
Photos by Chris James
RELATED:
Bicentenary Meeting at the Lodge of Honour No. 379
A Night to Remember: Bicentenary Gala Dinner and Dance March 2025
On the Dance Floor: Celebrating 200 Years of Lodge of Honour No.379
A Heartfelt Thank You from Lodge of Honour No. 379 for Your Support
