The Met Gala, formally known as the Costume Institute Gala or the Costume Institute Benefit, is an annual fundraising gala held for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Arts Costume Institute in New York City. The event is widely regarded as among the most prominent and most exclusive social events in the world, and is known as "fashions biggest night". The Met Gala was established in 1948 by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert as a fundraiser for the newly founded Costume Institute to mark the opening of its annual exhibit. Over the years, the event has grown in size and prestige, and is now one of the biggest fundraising nights in New York City, with total contributions surpassing $200 million for the first time after the 2019 event.

The Met Gala is typically held on the first Monday in May each year, with the exception of the 2021 event, which took place in September due to COVID-19 restrictions. The event usually hosts around 600 attendees, including stars, young creatives, and industry paragons. An invitation to the Met Gala is highly sought after, and the event raises eight-figure sums each year. The Met Gala is widely regarded as the worlds most prestigious and glamorous fashion event and social gathering.

The Met Gala is also known for its themes, which are tied to the Costume Institutes annual fashion exhibit. The theme of the exhibition sets the tone for the event and invitees must dress accordingly. Occasionally the theme is broad, but every few years it is dedicated to a single individual. The event welcomes stars, young creatives, and industry paragons each year, and guests always explore the exhibition before sitting down together for dinner. The Met Gala is a charity event that is considered a fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute.