Political parties, usually?

Usage examples of galas.

After her presentation to Queen Victoria, he had escorted his sister to numerous balls, musicales, routs, and other galas at which his grandmother thought they should make an appearance.

After attending three galas, Antonio excused himself and called for his carriage to take him to Weston House.

Having experienced the hectic round of parties and galas, she now looked forward to the quiet of Crestwood Manor and the Kent countryside.