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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Festival of Ideas
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T173000
DTSTAMP:20260521T082705Z
CREATED:20260518T080050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T082705Z
UID:10000668-1783096200-1783099800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The University of Chester in 15 Objects
DESCRIPTION:This event will showcase the history of the University from its opening in 1839 to the present day. We will present fifteen objects from across the decades and discuss how each of them relates to an important event in the university’s history.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-university-of-chester-in-10-objects/
LOCATION:Senate House\, Exton Park Campus\, University of Chester\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/22.-The-University-of-Chester-in-10-Objects-rotated.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTSTAMP:20260601T142717Z
CREATED:20260518T080027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T142717Z
UID:10000718-1783094400-1783096200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Immersive Chester Amphitheatre
DESCRIPTION:Take a step back in time and experience Chester’s virtual reality Roman amphitheatre! Following on from last year’s festival event\, this is designed for attendees to experience an immersive digital reconstruction of Chester’s Roman amphitheatre currently under development by University of Chester\, IMITO\, Julian Baum\, Grosvenor Museum and supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Stand in the footprints of gladiators and help us bring the past back to life through cutting edge technology.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-immersive-chester-amphitheatre-6/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Downes Sports Hall\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTSTAMP:20260518T080523Z
CREATED:20260518T080058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T080523Z
UID:10000667-1783092600-1783096200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Screening Siblings: Brothers and Sisters on Film
DESCRIPTION:What can brothers and sisters on film tell us about the state of a nation? In the 21st century\, siblings are everywhere on screen\, from superhero blockbusters to horror films\, teen movies and slice-of-life dramas. Dr Katie Barnett\, senior lecturer in Film Studies and the author of Screening Siblings in Contemporary American Film (Bloomsbury\, July 2026)\, explores what this shift towards horizontal relationships on screen reveals about power\, politics\, and changing ideas of family. \nsibstack.substack.com
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/screening-siblings-brothers-and-sisters-on-film/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/49.-Screening-Siblings.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260519T104918Z
CREATED:20260519T104918Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260519T104918Z
UID:10000752-1783090800-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Body Speaking: Functional Seizures and The Place of Trauma
DESCRIPTION:Join Professor Paul Bissell\, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at the University of Chester\, and Dr Marian Peacock\, Honorary Lecturer in Public Health at the University of Sheffield’s School of Health and Related Research to learn more about this fascinating\, and often ignored\, topic.  Paul and Marian will argue that the medical gaze continues to overlook the profound roles of gender\, class\, trauma and suffering in shaping the experiences of individuals with diagnoses of functional seizures. 
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-body-speaking-functional-seizures-and-the-place-of-trauma/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260513T142439Z
CREATED:20260518T080025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142439Z
UID:10000743-1783090800-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Wild Hope: Why the Arts and Nature Matter More Than Ever
DESCRIPTION:Join Uná Meehan in conversation with Rowan Cannon\, Founder and Artistic Director at Wild Rumpus. In an era defined by ecological crisis\, climate anxiety and rapid technological change\, many people feel overwhelmed by the scale of the challenges we face. Yet across the UK a growing movement is using arts\, culture and shared experiences in nature to reconnect people with each other and with the living world. Wild Rumpus\, the creative force behind festivals such as Just So and Timber\, has spent over a decade designing immersive cultural experiences in forests and wild landscapes. Their work invites thousands of people each year to step away from everyday life and encounter nature through storytelling\, performance\, music and collective participation. But can experiences like these do more than entertain? Can art in nature help us imagine different futures\, rebuild community\, and nurture hope in the face of environmental uncertainty? In this conversation\, Rowan Cannon and colleagues from Wild Rumpus explore: Why shared experiences in nature can transform how we see the world\, The role of imagination\, creativity and storytelling in responding to the climate crisis\, How festivals and cultural events can create collective moments of hope and possibility\, Why connection to nature is increasingly vital for wellbeing and resilience. The session will also invite the audience to reflect on their own experiences of nature\, creativity and community\, and to consider how small cultural moments can contribute to wider social and environmental change.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/wild-hope-why-the-arts-and-nature-matter-more-than-ever/
LOCATION:Storyhouse Garret Theatre\, Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR
CATEGORIES:Discussion Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151811Z
CREATED:20260518T080014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151811Z
UID:10000728-1783090800-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Randolph Caldecott: Illustrating Victorian Life
DESCRIPTION:Join one of West Cheshire Museums’ curators to learn more about this Chester-born artist. Best known as an illustrator of children’s books\, Caldecott was a wide-ranging\, varied artist\, admired by Gauguin and Van Gogh. He illustrated novels and travel books\, drew cartoons and caricatures\, and exhibited sculpture\, paintings and drawings. This talk will look at his life and work\, asking whether the apparent nostalgia in his work was an escape from an increasingly industrialised world.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/randolph-caldecott-illustrating-victorian-life/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T153000
DTSTAMP:20260601T142708Z
CREATED:20260518T080051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T142708Z
UID:10000717-1783090800-1783092600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Immersive Chester Amphitheatre
DESCRIPTION:Take a step back in time and experience Chester’s virtual reality Roman amphitheatre! Following on from last year’s festival event\, this is designed for attendees to experience an immersive digital reconstruction of Chester’s Roman amphitheatre currently under development by University of Chester\, IMITO\, Julian Baum\, Grosvenor Museum and supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Stand in the footprints of gladiators and help us bring the past back to life through cutting edge technology.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-immersive-chester-amphitheatre-5/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Downes Sports Hall\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151743Z
CREATED:20260518T080022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151743Z
UID:10000712-1783087200-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Roman Chester: Looking beneath the surface
DESCRIPTION:Join Peter for a walking tour of Roman sites in Chester (especially the defences)\, looking at details that escape the interpretation panels. The walk will begin at the canal bridge on Upper Northgate Street\, following the walls to the amphitheatre and Roman Gardens\, then through the streets to Town Hall Square. Participants are encouraged to dress for the route and weather. \nWe regret that this event is not suitable for people with mobility difficulties\, due to the nature of the City walls. However\, an online guide can be supplied\, with a route map that shows a wheelchair-friendly alternative that can be followed independently.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/roman-chester-looking-beneath-the-surface-2/
LOCATION:canal bridge on Upper Northgate Street\, Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 4EE\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/65.-Roman-Chester.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260601T142629Z
CREATED:20260518T080054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T142629Z
UID:10000715-1783087200-1783089000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Immersive Chester Amphitheatre
DESCRIPTION:Take a step back in time and experience Chester’s virtual reality Roman amphitheatre! Following on from last year’s festival event\, this is designed for attendees to experience an immersive digital reconstruction of Chester’s Roman amphitheatre currently under development by University of Chester\, IMITO\, Julian Baum\, Grosvenor Museum and supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Stand in the footprints of gladiators and help us bring the past back to life through cutting edge technology.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-immersive-chester-amphitheatre-4/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Downes Sports Hall\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260518T080435Z
CREATED:20260518T080044Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T080435Z
UID:10000671-1783085400-1783089000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:From Grassroots to Greatness: why community mental health is vital to supporting local health and wellbeing
DESCRIPTION:Strong communities are the foundation of good mental health. But how do grassroots initiatives translate into real improvements in wellbeing? This panel explores the vital role of community-led mental health support in strengthening local health and resilience. Bringing together diverse perspectives\, we’ll discuss what works\, the challenges communities face\, and how local action can drive lasting change in mental health and wellbeing. \nwww.chaptermentalhealth.org
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/from-grassroots-to-greatness-why-community-mental-health-is-vital-to-supporting-local-health-and-wellbeing/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Discussion Panel
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260513T141213Z
CREATED:20260518T080018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141213Z
UID:10000727-1783085400-1783089000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Broader Autism Phenotype: Subtle Traits and Their Impact on Everyday Life
DESCRIPTION:This session explores how understanding the Broader Autism Phenotype (BAP) can help support diverse learning and communication styles. BAP includes common traits such as valuing structure\, noticing detail\, or communicating very directly\, often seen in people without an autism diagnosis. Through accessible science and real life examples\, the session shows how these differences shape learning\, interaction\, and engagement. Attendees will gain practical insights into creating more inclusive\, supportive environments that recognise and respond to varied ways of thinking and learning.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-broader-autism-phenotype-subtle-traits-and-their-impact-on-everyday-life/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T130000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151622Z
CREATED:20260518T080000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151622Z
UID:10000670-1783080000-1783083600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:What have doctoral researchers in health and social care ever done for you?
DESCRIPTION:Our doctoral researchers in health and social care grapple with real-world problems that have an impact on people’s lives. From searching the literature to find out what we know and don’t know\, to exploring what happens in the real world and identifying how we can change the way we do things\, they work hard to have a positive impact on the services that you use. Some of our students will present their work to show how it can improve people’s lives.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/what-have-doctoral-researchers-in-health-and-social-care-ever-done-for-you/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T170000
DTSTAMP:20260513T140525Z
CREATED:20260518T080009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T140525Z
UID:10000697-1783076400-1783098000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Chester's Social Health Pledge: One Conversation at a Time
DESCRIPTION:What if one small conversation could make someone’s day better? Join Public Health staff and Master of Public Health students from the University of Chester to explore social health and why simple moments of connection matter. Visit our interactive stall\, choose a conversation starter\, and make a social pledge to have one meaningful conversation during the Festival. Better questions lead to better conversations. And better conversations can help tackle loneliness\, one chat at a time.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/chesters-social-health-pledge-one-conversation-at-a-time/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Staffed Table / Event / Exhibit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/75.-Chesters-Social-Health-Pledge.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260515T105151Z
CREATED:20260518T080034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T105151Z
UID:10000747-1783076400-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Talking Tours: Let’s Talk History
DESCRIPTION:Lace up your plimsoles and sprint through the last century of Cheshire’s sporting past with Let’s Talk\, History. Using historic sound recordings from Cheshire Archives’ collections\, this free audio trail tells 100 years of stories about the county’s competitive\, recreational and\, at times\, amusing sports. From the football field to the polo field. George Best and his team cheating their way to victory against Chester FC to street-side boxing matches to win £5. Follow the trail map and scan the free QR code on the Let’s Talk\, History posters at each location to hear the stories of our sporting stars from yesteryear. The ball’s in your court! \nPick up your trail map from the info point in Chester Town Hall to get started!
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/talking-tours-lets-talk-history-2/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTSTAMP:20260518T080039Z
CREATED:20260518T080032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T080039Z
UID:10000700-1783076400-1783090800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:"The future in our hands"- An exhibition by the students of Chester schools in collaboration with WeMindTheGap.
DESCRIPTION:Join us to hear what matters to young people in Chester today! Students taking part in WeMindTheGap’s WeInspire programme across three Chester high schools will be showcasing a vibrant collection of mixed media works to present their thoughts\, opinions and feelings about life as a teenager in Chester. \n  \nWeMindTheGap | Giving new opportunities to under-served young people \nWeMindTheGap: Overview | LinkedIn \nFacebook
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-future-in-our-hands-an-exhibition-by-the-students-of-chester-schools-in-collaboration-with-wemindthegap/
LOCATION:Churchill House\, Queen’s Park Campus\, University of Chester\, Queen's Park Road\, Chester\, CH4 7AD
CATEGORIES:Staffed Table / Event / Exhibit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T123000
DTSTAMP:20260513T140323Z
CREATED:20260518T080032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T140323Z
UID:10000699-1783076400-1783081800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Sustainability Walk - Energy
DESCRIPTION:This led walk\, which is also “wheels accessible”\, is one of four themed routes staged as part of the 2026 “Festival of ideas” that uses examples from the existing cityscape to demonstrate various aspects of the overall theme of ‘Sustainability’. \nThis walk focuses on the Sustainability dimension of ‘Energy’ visiting various sites in and around Chester City Centre to illustrate live examples of what are demonstrations of energy conservation or renewable energy production.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/sustainability-walk-energy/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Walk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T120000
DTSTAMP:20260625T080733Z
CREATED:20260518T080008Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T080733Z
UID:10000725-1783076400-1783080000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Supporting the next generation:  inter-generational mentoring - how "the old" can mentor "the young".
DESCRIPTION:The MACIE (Mentoring And Coaching In Education) research group have undertaken extensive research into mentoring\, and what works well when mentoring relationships are successful. In this interactive workshop session we will take you through what we have learnt from our research into mentoring in education settings\, and apply it to real life situations that you can use in your everyday interactions. More specifically it’s about how “the old” can best go about helping “the young”. \n  \nMACIE research group (Mentoring and Coaching in Education)\nDr Luke Jones\, Gethin Foulkes\, Jo Williams\, Mary Anne McCarthy and Annie Argyropulo-Palmer
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/supporting-the-next-generation-inter-generational-mentoring-how-the-old-can-mentor-the-young/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/mentoring-image.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T113000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151554Z
CREATED:20260518T080036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151554Z
UID:10000666-1783074600-1783078200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Rows of Chester: A Unique Creation or a Unique Survival?
DESCRIPTION:The uniqueness of Chester’s Rows lies first in the imaginative adaptation of a common medieval building form to the city’s hilly site. However\, they would not have seemed so unusual had comparable buildings elsewhere survived better. The talk will look at parallels for the building type\, how it was adapted to the landscape\, and the historical circumstances that prompted it.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-rows-of-chester-a-unique-creation-or-a-unique-survival/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/66.-The-Rows-of-Chester.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T170000
DTSTAMP:20260616T133349Z
CREATED:20260616T133349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T133349Z
UID:10000759-1783072800-1783098000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Nourish to Flourish (Photo Exhibition)
DESCRIPTION:Nourish to Flourish is a school-based project led by Kate and Ellie\, helping children feel confident about healthy eating through creativity. Supported by the Bluecoat Charity\, the Westminster Foundation and Crossing Borders\, with evaluation support from RECAP (University of Chester). This year children explored artists from around the world and created artwork using food as material. The event includes a photo exhibition.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/nourish-to-flourish-photo-exhibition-2/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/63.-Nourish-to-Flourish.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T170000
DTSTAMP:20260513T140046Z
CREATED:20260518T080035Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T140046Z
UID:10000736-1783072800-1783098000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Retracing Footsteps: The Past\, Present and Future of Yr Wyddfa / Snowdon
DESCRIPTION:Yr Wyddfa / Snowdon is Wales’s most iconic mountain\, hosting 650\,000 visitors each year. This exhibition takes us on a journey that considers the past\, present\, and sustainable future of the mountain. Contemporary photographs are juxtaposed with extracts from the 19th-century Snowdon summit hotels’ visitor books. The exhibition is part of an ongoing\, interdisciplinary project at the University of Chester\, in collaboration with Bangor University and Eryri National Park Authority.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/retracing-footsteps-the-past-present-and-future-of-yr-wyddfa-snowdon-2/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260515T142323Z
CREATED:20260518T080036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T142323Z
UID:10000751-1783072800-1783094400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Postgraduate Research Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:The postgraduate research exhibition will feature current research being conducted at the University of Chester across a variety of disciplines. The research will be presented via posters\, detailing what the researcher is doing\, how they are doing it\, and what impact this could have.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/postgraduate-research-exhibition-2/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Exhibition
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T213000
DTSTAMP:20260513T135503Z
CREATED:20260518T080053Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T135503Z
UID:10000665-1783018800-1783027800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Research is a Laugh - Stand-Up Comedy Night!
DESCRIPTION:Think academic research isn’t your thing? Think again! \nJoin us for an evening stand-up comedy\, a new event for 2026! Researchers from across the North West will swap jargon for punchlines and take to the stage to share their work. Expect fascinating research\, silly stories\, and lots of laughs. No prior knowledge required\, just come along and discover what happens when research meets comedy! \nThis year’s Chester Festival of Ideas line-up includes: Luke Chaplin\, Kate Slade\, Sahir Hussain\, Erin Beeston\, Bethany Facer\, and Sarah McGrath!
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/research-is-a-laugh/
LOCATION:Storyhouse Garret Theatre\, Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR
CATEGORIES:Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T203000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151509Z
CREATED:20260107T070023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151509Z
UID:10000649-1783018800-1783024200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Cheshire Prize for Literature Awards Evening
DESCRIPTION:The Cheshire Prize for Literature showcases the literary talents of writers with a connection to the Cheshire area. Now in its 22nd year\, the awards evening will announce the winners in the primary\, secondary and adult categories for poetry\, short stories\, children’s literature and scriptwriting.  \nThe winners will be joined by renowned author Ele Fountain. Ele worked as an editor in children’s publishing where she was responsible for launching and nurturing the careers of many prize-winning and bestselling authors\, and was shortlisted for the British Council’s Young Creative Entrepreneur Award.  \nShe lived in Addis Ababa for several years\, where she wrote her debut novel\, BOY 87\, which went on to win four awards and was nominated for ten more\, including the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and Carnegie Medal. Her second novel\, LOST\, was a Guardian Children’s Book of the Year. FAKE has been selected as a BookTrust Future Classic. WILD was a Financial Times Best Book of the Year. Her latest novel\, STORM CHILD\, was a Times Book of the Week. Her books have sold to 13 countries worldwide and received more than 30 award nominations between them.  \nShe has talked about books and reading on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour\, BBC Radio London\, BBC Radio Scotland\, BBC World Service\, and to anyone who happens to be passing. She speaks regularly at schools and literary festivals\, delivering talks and workshops drawing on 20 years’ experience in the publishing industry. Ele currently holds a post as RLF (Royal Literary Fund) Fellow at the University of Reading.  \nThe event will start at 7pm with a complimentary drink available beforehand.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/cheshire-prize-for-literature-awards-evening-2/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park School of Education\, University of Chester\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Ele-Fountain-2-July-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T183000
DTSTAMP:20260528T163001Z
CREATED:20260518T080011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260528T163001Z
UID:10000724-1783013400-1783017000@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Can You Spot the Traitor? The Psychology Behind The Traitors
DESCRIPTION:Missing The Traitors now the series has finished? Join this interactive session exploring the psychology behind the show. Why do the Faithful struggle to identify the Traitors\, and why are humans so poor at spotting lies? Drawing on insights from our Psychology of the Traitors podcast\, we’ll explore deception\, trust\, groupthink and social influence. Along the way\, you’ll analyse real moments from the show and test whether you can spot the traitor.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/can-you-spot-the-traitor-the-psychology-behind-the-traitors/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T173000
DTSTAMP:20260603T122944Z
CREATED:20260528T095839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260603T122944Z
UID:10000754-1783008000-1783013400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Monika Haeger - Inside Stasi: The Art of Translation and Adaptation for the Stage
DESCRIPTION:This event will be led by Dr Stef Kerrigan and Dr Richard Millington and will include an audience Q&A. \nThis presentation is the first public sharing of an ongoing collaborative project between staff and students at the University of Chester whilst working with Nicole Heinrich’s 2024 play\, Monika Haeger – Inside Stasi. Heinrich’s original work is based on the life of Stasi agent Monika Haeger and is a dramatic account of her activities within the German Democratic Republic in the 1970s and 1980s. Featuring excerpts of performance\, come and join us as we share our journey of translation\, collaboration and performance. We consider the creative processes of adaptation and storytelling for the contemporary stage whilst addressing timely issues of extremism\, unreliable narrators\, absolutist ideologies and the state.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/inside-stasi-the-art-of-translation-and-adaptation-for-the-stage/
LOCATION:Storyhouse Garret Theatre\, Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR
CATEGORIES:Performance,Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/000.-Generic.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T170000
DTSTAMP:20260518T075828Z
CREATED:20260518T080029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T075828Z
UID:10000660-1783008000-1783011600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Hidden Histories Beneath Our Feet: How Digital Tools Reveal Local Stories
DESCRIPTION:Discover how digital tools such as drones\, 3D scanning\, mapping\, and creative storytelling are helping uncover hidden histories in our towns and landscapes. Through visual examples from local heritage sites\, including castles and community spaces\, this session explores how technology can reconnect people with the stories beneath their feet\, and inspire new ways of seeing familiar places. \nhttps://www.avimmerse.com/ \nhttps://warringtoncastle.co.uk/
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/hidden-histories-beneath-our-feet-how-digital-tools-reveal-local-stories/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/50.-Hidden-Histories-Beneath-our-feet.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T163000
DTSTAMP:20260515T140945Z
CREATED:20260107T070004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T140945Z
UID:10000646-1783006200-1783009800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:What Am I Looking At? Following Chester’s Buildings Through Time
DESCRIPTION:Chester is filled with beautiful and distinctive buildings\, but in a place where people have lived for more than two thousand years\,  things are rarely as they seem. Combining an introduction to European architectural styles with a more detailed look at some of Chester’s most interesting architecture\, this illustrated talk will explore the ways in which buildings survive and change through the centuries\, and what they can tell us about their makers.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/what-am-i-looking-at-understanding-chesters-rich-architectural-history/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Chantal-Bradburn-FoIArchitectureImage26.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T153000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151422Z
CREATED:20260107T070042Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151422Z
UID:10000645-1783002600-1783006200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Walking and Cycling to a Better Future?
DESCRIPTION:Cycling is well known as an essential part of sustainable transport planning. This public lecture from Peter Cox\, Emeritus Professor at the University of Chester and internationally acclaimed writer on cycling and sustainable travel\, will explore the implications of taking walking and cycling as the starting point of thinking about movement; not just including them in travel plans.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/walking-and-cycling-to-a-better-future/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Peter-Cox-9781908258113.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T153000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151402Z
CREATED:20260107T070017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151402Z
UID:10000647-1783002600-1783006200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:On Holy Ground: Experiencing Life in Relationships
DESCRIPTION:This lecture explores the idea that life is all about relationships\, and that the experiences that we have with ‘others’ are holy ground where we can develop in dialogue with those we are in relationship. This presentation will draw on James’ experiences in education and inter-faith to fully explore what it means to live life in relationship. It will contrast an approach to life that Martin Buber describes as ‘I-It’: where everything and everyone are things to be used. The argument of this lecture is that we should adopt an ‘I-Thou’ approach to life where we view others in a relationship of love.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/on-holy-ground-experiencing-life-in-relationships/
LOCATION:Chester Picturehouse\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/81U71gAgaBL._SL1500_.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260702T150000
DTSTAMP:20260513T151246Z
CREATED:20260518T080054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151246Z
UID:10000658-1783000800-1783004400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Why write a biography of Alfred Mond? The Many Lives of Chester's Forgotten MP
DESCRIPTION:Who today knows of Alfred Mond? Once one of the world’s greatest tycoons\, Mond has largely vanished from British public memory. Yet\, elsewhere in the world the picture is very different. In Israel\, there are streets\, statues and even a museum in honour of the former Chester MP. As Tim Grady will discuss\, Mond lived many different lives: politician\, industrialist\, leading Zionist and architect of the Imperial War Museum. It’s 90 years since the last biography. Is the time ripe for a follow up?
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/why-write-a-biography-of-alfred-mond-the-many-lives-of-chesters-forgotten-mp/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Public Talk
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/78.-Why-write-a-biography-of-Alfred-Mond.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR