The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, today announced the return of the highly anticipated Lord Mayor’s Black Tie Charity Ball, taking place in the historic Round Room at the Mansion House on Saturday, 18 April 2026. This year’s event will proudly support three exceptional Irish charities: ChildVision, Down Syndrome Ireland, and FirstLight.
A special photo call marked the occasion, featuring:
- ChildVision:CEO Barry Sheridan
- Down Syndrome Ireland:CEO Aidan Stacey and Head of Fundraising, Communications & Advocacy Ruth Hickey
- Dublin’s FM104:Crossy Brand Ambassador for Down Syndrome Ireland
- FirstLight:CEO Jennifer McCarthy Flynn
Speaking at the announcement, the Lord Mayor expressed pride in selecting ChildVision and Down Syndrome Ireland as his chosen charities for 2026. “I’m proud to have selected ChildVision and Down Syndrome Ireland as my chosen charity partners for the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Charity Ball because they reflect the very best of what it means to celebrate Dublin — a city that is strongest when we put inclusion, opportunity and dignity at the heart of civic life. ChildVision supports children with vision impairment and complex needs, helping them to learn, communicate, build confidence and live as independently as possible. Down Syndrome Ireland works every day to support people with Down syndrome and their families, advocating for education, employment, participation and full equality in our communities. We’re also supporting FirstLight, which provides crucial early intervention and therapeutic support for babies, young children and families when it’s needed most. For our capital city to back these charities is to say something clear about who we are — that every child and every family matters, and that Dublin’s pride is measured by how we care for one another. On Saturday, 18 April 2026, in the Round Room of the Mansion House, Dublin will come together to support ChildVision, Down Syndrome Ireland, and FirstLight — turning one great night into real, lasting impact”
The third charity, FirstLight, was selected by long-standing event sponsor EHL Experiences, who continue to play a vital role in bringing the Charity Ball to life. “Choosing FirstLight as EHL’s charity partner for the Lord Mayor’s Ball 2026 is deeply meaningful to EHL Experiences. As they mark an extraordinary 50 years of supporting families through the most unimaginable moments, their unwavering compassion and professionalism continue to inspire us at EHL. The work FirstLight does is courageous, vital and profoundly human, and it reflects the values of community and care that guide our organisation. We are also incredibly proud to join the Lord Mayor of Dublin in supporting ChildVision and Down Syndrome Ireland – two outstanding charities whose impact on children, young adults and families across Ireland cannot be overstated. It is a privilege for us to stand beside all these charities for this years Lord Mayors Ball, helping to shine a light on their remarkable legacy and ensuring their essential support can continue for generations to come” said Padraic O’Kane, CEO & Co-Founder of EHL Experiences.
Dublin City Council Lord Mayor Ball 2024 Picture Conor McCabe Photography.
The Lord Mayor’s Charity Ball is a ticketed gala evening marking a night of celebration, community, and compassion with all proceeds from tickets, auctions, and raffles going directly to the three beneficiary organisations. The event is fully sponsored by EHL Experiences and the Office of the Lord Mayor of Dublin. The evening has helped in raising over €1.1m over the last decade.
Guests will enjoy a drinks reception from 7pm, followed by a four-course dinner, live entertainment, and an exciting auction, all in support of raising vital funds for ChildVision, Down Syndrome Ireland, and FirstLight.
About the Beneficiary Charities
ChildVision
ChildVision is Ireland’s national education and therapy centre for children and young adults with sight loss and complex disabilities. For nearly 160 years, the organisation has evolved, innovated, and expanded to ensure every young person in its care receives the support they need to live a life of dignity, independence, and hope.
Website: www.childvision.ie
Down Syndrome Ireland
Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) provides lifelong support and services to people with Down syndrome and their families through its national office and 25 branches. Working across health, early development, education, independence, and adult support, DSI enhances the lives of thousands of children and adults nationwide.
Website: www.downsyndrome.ie
FirstLight
Founded as the Irish Sudden Infant Death Association, FirstLight provides professional crisis intervention, counselling, and therapeutic services to families experiencing the sudden or unexpected death of a child. For 45 years, their accredited team has offered nationwide support free of charge, relying heavily on fundraising to maintain their essential work.
Website: www.firstlight.ie
