Social and cultural programme
A centrepiece of the congress every year, the Culture + Connection Evening Networking Reception will be held this year at the Imperial War Museum North, a short walk over the bridge from the Lowry in the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.
Culture + Connection Reception
Date: Tuesday 14 October Time: 19.00–22.00
Venue: Imperial War Museum North
Ticket price: £95 + VAT
Join new and old friends and colleagues from the congress for an evening of networking, nutritious bowl food, drinks and cultural performances from local and national artists of different genres within the exciting exhibition spaces of the Imperial War Museum North (IWM North).
Opened in 2002, IWM North is one of five branches of the Imperial War Museums, and is dedicated to exploring the impact of modern conflicts on people and society. With a modern immersive exhibition style, IWM North is distinct from other branches, aiming to present itself as a social history museum rather than a traditional military history museum, creating a fitting and stimulating environment for the evening reception.
Occupying a site overlooking the Manchester Ship Canal in Trafford Park, an area that was heavily bombed during World War II, the museum was designed to attract a more diverse audience, focusing on the social impact of war rather than military history.
The building itself is a striking example of Deconstructivist architecture. Designed by world leading architect, Daniel Libeskind, its aluminium-clad structure with jutting angles has become a recognisable part of the Manchester skyline. The museum’s design reflects both the fragmented nature of conflict and its impact on individuals and society.
IWM North’s main exhibition space, where the reception will be held, features a timeline of global conflict, from the First World War to the present day, with a particular focus on the experiences of individuals. It uses personal stories, objects, and audiovisual presentations to explore themes such as the changing role of women in society, the legacy of conflict, and the physical experience of war. The museum also features the “Big Picture,” a 360-degree cinematic experience that uses images and oral accounts to create an immersive environment.
Two additional events, detailed below, are also taking place and are free to attend, along with four Walking tours.
BeMore Breakfast. Networking Social
Date and time: Wednesday 15 October, 08.00–08.45
Venue: Quays Bar
Organised by 360 Degree Society
Connection creates change
Change doesn’t just happen in conference rooms — it’s in the informal conversations that take place inbetween. Start your congress day with friends and colleagues, new and old, who care about creating healthier, fairer and more sustainable places and communities. Hosted by 360 Degree Society, this informal breakfast meet-up, linked to the congress theme, is a chance to pause, connect, reflect and spark ideas together before the day’s programme begins.
After checking in at the congress registration desk, walk around the Lowry’s Quay Bar overlooking Salford Quays and past the poster gallery, to join us for an inspiring conversation, great company, breakfast pastries, coffee and space to explore ideas and expectations for the day ahead.
Salford Sunrise 5km Run
Date and time: Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 October, 06.45–07.30
Meeting point: Lowry
Organised by 360 Degree Society
Movement makes us think differently
Lace up and join 360 Degree Society for an early morning 5km run around Salford Quays. A chance to clear your head, stretch your legs and take in the waterfront views before the day begins.
This is a relaxed, social run — no clocks, no pressure — just good company, fresh air and space to reflect as we move together.
