reception; social gathering
A formal or semi-formal event for socializing, often organized by a company, school, or association.
A reception for new students will be held next week.
I met many people at the company reception.
懇親会 emphasizes fostering closer relationships, often more informal than 交歓会.
Compound of 交 (exchange) + 歓 (joy) + 会 (meeting), literally 'joyful exchange meeting'.