A Festive Giving Lunch (for Crescer Ser Charity)
Join us for a beautiful afternoon of celebration, connection, and giving, as Lisbon’s expat community comes together to raise funds for Christmas presents for children in care.
About the Event
This November, Charity Champions is partnering with the stunning Locke Santa Joana Lisboa to host an intimate Festive Giving Lunch, a heart-warming gathering of Lisbon’s creative, entrepreneurial, and expat community, all united by one purpose: to bring Christmas joy to children who need it most.
Together, we’ll raise funds to provide Christmas gifts for the children supported by Crescer Ser, a local charity that cares for vulnerable children and young people across Portugal.
About Santa Joana & the Buffet Lunch:
Santa Joana is a modern, stylish brasserie set in a stunning converted convent.
Celebrate the season with a festive buffet lunch of pastries, charcuterie, cheeses, fresh salads, and warm dishes including buttermilk fried chicken, fish and shellfish rice, and cocotte eggs with spinach and hollandaise. End on a sweet note with Portuguese desserts like rice pudding, candied orange cake, and chocolate mousse — paired with coffee, infusions, and fresh juices.
What to Expect:
Extraordinary Buffet Lunch
Networking
Live Music by the amazing @hannalenemusic
Live Charity Auction
About Live Auction:
We have an incredible lineup of items for our LIVE Auction — including a including a cutting-edge metabolic and body composition scan, a Michelin-star dinner, luxury stays, astrology readings, organic skincare packages, spa experiences, fine wines, art, Japanese cooking classes, and even a stunning handmade diamond ring.
Our heartfelt thanks to our Generosity Partners — Wheelhouse, Metaclinc, Locke Lisboa, Casca Wines, D'Almeida Hats, Mafalda Matos, ALMA Humans, Disco Wheel for contributing these unforgettable gifts and experiences. Your generosity makes a lasting impact this Christmas.
Why It Matters
At Charity Champions, we believe that those of us who enjoy the beauty, lifestyle, and opportunities of Portugal also carry a responsibility to give back to the place we call home.
In May 2025, our first Charity Gala raised €8,880 for Crescer Ser, funding vital care for children in need.
This lunch marks the start of a new tradition, seasonal events that keep the spirit of giving alive throughout the year. By joining us, you’ll not only enjoy a magical afternoon, but you’ll put a gift directly into the hands of a child this Christmas.
How You Can Get Involved
Get Your Ticket for the Lunch
Enjoy lunch and be part of this joyful cause. Early Bird available until 26 October.Sponsor a Child’s Gift. Can’t attend or would like to give more? Donate the cost of a present.
* Choose Online Donation Option above25 euros buys one present
50 euros buys two presents
100 euros buys four presents
free to donate any amount above 100 euros
Become an Event Partner. Offer an auction item, sponsor décor or gifts, or become a headline sponsor.
Every contribution, big or small, helps us make Christmas brighter for children who deserve to feel special.
Event Details
Date: Sunday November 16th
Time: 12:00 - 16:00pm
Venue: Locke Lisboa, Rua Rodrigo da Fonseca, Lisbon
Dress Code: Festive & fabulous dress to impress your inner child
About Charity Champions
We are a collective of Lisbon-based expats who believe in giving back to Portugal.
What began as two people with a vision has grown into a team of six, building a community that pairs glamour with generosity and makes a meaningful difference to the lives of children and families in need.
Join us as we celebrate community, creativity, and care, making this Christmas unforgettable for children who need it most.
FAQs
What should I wear?
Festive & fabulous dress to impress your inner childWhat’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entry, incredible buffet lunch, drinks (non-alcoholic options), live music & entertainment, and access to the live auction.Will there be options for vegetarians/vegans?
Yes, there will be plenty of dishes to choose from that are suitable for those with food intolerances: dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free.What will the funds go towards?
All proceeds go directly to Crescer Ser. The funds raised will go towards buying Christmas gifts to children, and may also be used to support the day-to-day running of their children’s homes (including essentials like food, school supplies, toiletries, and stationery).What if I cannot attend but would like to donate?
That means the world to us — thank you! If you're unable to join on the day but would still love to support the cause, you can make a direct donation via the "Online Donations" option above.Can I bring a guest?
Yes, of course! Please make sure your purchase them a ticketWho is organising this?
The Lisbon Charity Gala is co-hosted by a team of Charity Champions: Briony McKenzie, Carla Biesinger, Jo Cox Brown, Emily Peilan, Arina Romancevich, Bianca Tate — all purpose-driven entrepreneurs passionate about giving back, creating meaningful community, and supporting local impact initiatives.Who do I contact for more info?
Feel free to message Briony directly via WhatsApp at (+351) 912 405 465 with any questions or to get involved.