Inaugural World Gunmakers’ Evening USA to debut at Philadelphia’s prestigious Union League on 4 May 2027

Following the outstanding success of the 2026 World Gunmakers’ Evening in London, organisers Stable Events are delighted to announce the launch of the inaugural World Gunmakers’ Evening USA, marking the first international expansion of one of the sporting world’s most prestigious celebrations of fine gunmaking.

The inaugural World Gunmakers’ Evening USA will take place on Tuesday 4 May 2027 at the distinguished Union League of Philadelphia, one of America’s oldest and most prestigious private clubs. Founded in 1862 to support President Abraham Lincoln and preserve the Union during the American Civil War, the Union League has grown into one of the most respected private institutions in the United States, renowned for its commitment to patriotism, philanthropy, culture and excellence. Its historic surroundings and reputation for hosting world-class events provide an exceptional setting for the first American edition.

The launch fulfils an ambition first shared publicly earlier this year, when Event Manager Gemma Smith spoke with the American publication Shooting Sportsman about the long-term vision for the World Gunmakers’ Evening. During the interview, Smith highlighted international expansion as a natural evolution for the event, citing the strong relationships between British and American sporting communities and the growing international appeal of traditional gunmaking. Less than a year later, that vision has become reality.

Mr. Frank Giordano, 64th President of The Union League of Philadelphia said

“As a past President of the Union League, I am thrilled to see the World Gunmakers’ Evening find its American home within our historic walls. The League has always stood as a bastion of tradition, excellence, and community, making it a fitting stage to celebrate the timeless artistry and global heritage of fine gunmaking.”

The US edition will take place just weeks after the 2027 World Gunmakers’ Evening London, which returns to Grosvenor House, Park Lane, on Monday 19 April 2027 for the second consecutive year following a highly acclaimed 2026 event.

Since its inception, the World Gunmakers’ Evening has established itself as the definitive annual gathering celebrating the heritage, craftsmanship and innovation of the world’s finest sporting gunmakers. Bringing together leading manufacturers, collectors, sporting enthusiasts, retailers and luxury brands, the event has become an important fixture in the international sporting calendar.

Already confirmed to exhibit at The World Gunmakers’ Evening London are some of the industry’s most respected names, including Holland & Holland, James Purdey & Sons, Manor and Co Gun and Rifle Makers, Hull Cartridge and Lonsdale Auctioneers, with further exhibitors and premium partners to be announced over the coming months.

The expansion into the United States reflects the growing international appreciation for traditional gunmaking and the enduring relationship between British and American sporting communities.

James Gower, Managing Director of Stable Events, said:

“The response to this year’s World Gunmakers’ Evening demonstrated just how much demand exists for an event that celebrates craftsmanship, heritage and the relationships that define our industry. Welcoming guests from the United States this year sparked both commercial return for participating gunmakers, and conversations for our business that quickly developed into an exciting opportunity. We are incredibly proud to be taking The World Gunmakers’ Evening to America.

“Hosting the inaugural event at the Union League of Philadelphia provides a setting that perfectly reflects the values of excellence, tradition and prestige upon which the World Gunmakers’ Evening has been built. We look forward to welcoming the finest gunmakers from around the world and establishing what we hope will become another landmark event in the international sporting calendar.”

Gemma Smith, Event Manager, added:

“Our ambition from the outset was to build The World Gunmakers’ Evening into an internationally recognised celebration of craftsmanship and gunmaking heritage. We’re incredibly excited to take this next step and begin a new chapter for the event.”

The World Gunmakers’ Evening USA will retain the signature format that has become synonymous with the London event, combining an exclusive exhibition of the world’s leading gunmakers with premium hospitality.

With growing interest from exhibitors, sponsors and international guests, the inaugural event promises to strengthen transatlantic relationships while showcasing the very best of bespoke gunmaking and luxury sporting craftsmanship.

The World Gunmakers’ Evening London 2027

  • Date: Monday 19 April 2027
  • Venue: Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London

The World Gunmakers’ Evening USA 2027

  • Date: Tuesday 4 May 2027
  • Venue: Union League of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Press & Sponsorship Enquiries

Gemma Smith
Event Manager
[email protected]

Exhibitor Participation Enquiries

Lee Hurst [email protected]