ga ‧ la /ˈɡɑːlə $ ˈɡeɪlə, ˈɡælə/ BrE AmE noun [countable]
[ Date: 1600-1700 ; Language: Italian ; Origin: Old French gale 'fun and enjoyment' ]
1 . a public entertainment or performance to celebrate a special occasion
gala dinner/performance/night etc
the Society’s Gala Dinner
a charity gala evening
2 . British English a sports competition, especially in swimming