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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Festival of Ideas
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T123000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T150000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T113000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T123000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T140755Z
UID:10000669-1783078200-1783081800@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Supporting early diagnosis of cancer  through Community Partnerships
DESCRIPTION:Thriving people and Communities – NHS and voluntary sector working together to raise awareness of cancer symptoms and screening. \nCancer rates and deaths in Cheshire are higher than the England average and the incidence of this disease is rising. If it is diagnosed early\, then survival is better for those who experience it. To support this\, Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance\, an NHS organisation\, launched a Community Partnership programme with the Council for Voluntary Sector Partners to support community‑led cancer awareness. This work has reached 48\,000 people to date\, mainly in the most deprived areas. Come and hear about how this has been developed\, what the Alliance have achieved and what you could do to reduce your risk of cancer.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/supporting-early-diagnosis-of-cancer-through-community-partnerships/
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/2026/05/98.-Supporting-early-diagnosis.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T130000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T133000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T110512Z
UID:10000702-1783081800-1783085400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:In a World of AI\, Your Greatest Advantage is How You Relate
DESCRIPTION:AI can write your emails. Generate your leads. Build your systems. Draft your strategy. Build your business. \nThe one thing AI cannot do? Build a real relationship. \nWe need to stay present when things get hard. Navigate difference. Repair trust when it breaks. These are the key skills of the next decade. Because most challenges are relational\, not transactional. \nTEDx speaker\, author and relationship psychotherapist Kerry-Lyn Stanton-Downes has worked with over 2\,000 individuals and teams across 17 countries. In this talk she shares why the ability to regulate\, relate\, reconnect is your greatest competitive advantage and offers practical ways to start building relational capacity right now. Because the future is not about what you know. It is about how you relate.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/in-a-world-of-ai-your-greatest-advantage-is-how-you-relate/
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:20260703T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141028Z
UID:10000711-1783081800-1783096200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Supporting early diagnosis of cancer through Community Partnerships
DESCRIPTION:Thriving people and Communities – NHS and voluntary sector working together to raise awareness of cancer symptoms and screening. \nCancer rates and deaths in Cheshire are higher than the England average and the incidence of this disease is rising. If it is diagnosed early\, then survival is better for those who experience it. To support this\, Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance\, an NHS organisation\, launched a Community Partnership programme with the Council for Voluntary Sector Partners to support community‑led cancer awareness. This work has reached 48\,000 people to date\, mainly in the most deprived areas. Come and hear about how this has been developed\, what the Alliance have achieved and what you could do to reduce your risk of cancer.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/supporting-early-diagnosis-of-cancer-through-community-partnerships-2/
LOCATION:Picturehouse Cafe\, Unit 10 Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR
CATEGORIES:Staffed Table / Event / Exhibit
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/98.-Supporting-early-diagnosis.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260107T070020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141050Z
UID:10000639-1783083600-1783087200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Royal Institution-Energy LIVE!
DESCRIPTION:Energy LIVE! is an exciting audience led show\, for secondary school children\, delving into the different stores of energy and how they affect our lives. Through lively\, fire-based demonstrations we take the intimidation out of the terminology around energy and show you just how simple this subject can be.\nYour pupils will leave not only knowing their elastic from their gravitational\, but also fired up (pun intended) about energy and with a newly-enthused approach to science.\nIf you are interested in your school attending email us at: IdeasFestival@chester.ac.uk
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-royal-institution-energy-live-2/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Binks Building\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_0022.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T140000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141148Z
UID:10000742-1783083600-1783087200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:How to Feel Hopeful
DESCRIPTION:Young people are growing up hearing that the world is in crisis – from climate change to political instability and constant alarming headlines. This interactive session creates space to pause and look more closely. Are things only getting worse? What does the evidence really show? Through open discussion and reflective activities\, we’ll explore how to sit with uncertainty without losing perspective. A welcoming\, inclusive space for secondary age and above thoughtful\, honest and hopeful.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/how-to-feel-hopeful/
LOCATION:Storyhouse Garret Theatre\, Hunter Street\, Chester\, CH1 2AR
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/81.-Hope-to-feel-hopeful-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T133000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T143000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T141302Z
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:20260703T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
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:20260703T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T153000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175449
CREATED:20260518T080021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142242Z
UID:10000716-1783089000-1783092600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Designing Inclusion: The Kairos Experience
DESCRIPTION:Join a Chester-made business start-up to discover how everyday choices can shape more inclusive communities. Kairos provides culturally inclusive snacks and products for students and communities through socially driven vending solutions. In this interactive workshop\, attendees will have the opportunity to explore global snacks and the stories behind them\, learn how lived experiences can inspire business ideas\, and take part in a creative challenge to design their own inclusive vending concept. Fun\, hands-on and thought-provoking for all ages.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/designing-inclusion-the-kairos-experience/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/51.-Designing-Inclusion-The-Kairos-Experience.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T153000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142305Z
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:20260703T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
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:20260703T160000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
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:20260525T175450
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:20260703T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
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:20260703T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T163000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142529Z
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:20260703T163000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T173000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
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:20260703T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T173000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142606Z
UID:10000719-1783098000-1783099800@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-7/
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:20260703T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T180000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T145048Z
UID:10000729-1783098000-1783101600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Queering Britain:  Keeping LGBTQ Stories Alive
DESCRIPTION:This research began in Blackpool\, exploring its rich drag scene and LGBTQ+ histories. It has since grown into a wider project gathering stories from towns and cities across the UK. Through voices that connect generations and place\, Helen is starting to explore how identity is shaped by place and heritage. Reflecting on the legacy of Section 28\, preserving and sharing these stories publicly matters now more than ever. This talk will focus on stories from the seaside town of Blackpool.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/queering-britain-keeping-lgbtq-stories-alive/
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/2026/05/39-Queering-Britian.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T190000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260107T070034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T151942Z
UID:10000650-1783101600-1783105200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Mariella Frostrup: In Conversation
DESCRIPTION:Join Mariella Frostrup for a dynamic conversation on why closing gender gaps is not just a social ideal but an economic necessity. Reflecting on her work as Chair of the Women in Work Summit\, co‑founder of Menopause Mandate\, and long‑time gender equality advocate\, this event will explore how pay\, wealth and health gaps shape women’s working lives and why addressing them is critical for productivity\, growth and long‑term competitiveness. Mariella will be in conversation with Professor Emma Rees\, Director of the University of Chester’s Institute of  Gender Studies and editor of the Routledge Companion to Gender\, Sexuality and Culture. \n(photo credit: Kate Martin)
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/mariella-frostrup-in-conversation/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park School of Education\, University of Chester\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:In Conversation Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Mariella-Frostrup3-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T190000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260107T070037Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T134422Z
UID:10000640-1783101600-1783105200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:The Royal Institution: Do it Yourself Community Show
DESCRIPTION:Dive into science and be ready to get hands-on with surprising experiments\, shocking facts and the odd explosion! This show is packed full of experiments for families to try at home as well as the Ri’s trademark fiery demos. Join us as we learn how to build a rocket……… and launch it!\n\nAll children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/the-royal-institution-do-it-yourself-community-show/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Binks Building\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_0022.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260703T203000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260107T070006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T152001Z
UID:10000637-1783107000-1783110600@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Gary Younge: In Conversation
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an illuminating conversation with Gary Younge\, award-winning author\, broadcaster\, and Professor of Sociology at the University of Manchester. A former editor-at-large at The Guardian\, Younge brings decades of journalistic insight and academic rigor to discussions on race\, identity\, and resistance. His latest book\, Pigeonholed: Creative Freedom as an Act of Resistance\, explores the power of storytelling in challenging societal constraints. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with one of the most compelling voices in contemporary journalism and social thought. \nGary will be in conversation with Professor Tim Grady\, Director of the Culture and Society Research and Knowledge Exchange Institute at the University of Chester\, which brings together 200 researchers with an interest in exploring and challenging the influences that have shaped\, and continue to shape\, our culture and society.  Tim is an international scholar of twentieth century British and German history and is keen to explore through this discussion the role of the media in modern democracies and\, crucially\, how we can engage young people in democratic politics in such tumultuous times.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/gary-younge-in-conversation/
LOCATION:University of Chester Exton Park Campus – Binks Building\, Parkgate Road\, Chester\, CH1 4BJ
CATEGORIES:In Conversation Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG_0021.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T120000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T080636Z
UID:10000672-1783162800-1783166400@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Medieval Treasures: Hold and Create History
DESCRIPTION:Step into Chester’s past at our Medieval Object Drop-In Handling Workshop. Explore authentic artefacts alongside the Historic Towns Trust map of Chester\, uncovering untold stories. Enjoy hands-on\, creative activities for all ages: touch history\, make\, draw\, and imagine the medieval city together. \nhttps://mob.chester.ac.uk/ \nhttps://www.historictownstrust.uk/maps/an-historical-map-of-chester
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/medieval-treasures-hold-and-create-history/
LOCATION:Chester Town Hall\, 33 Northgate Street\, Chester\, CH1 2HQ
CATEGORIES:Drop In Event,Interactive / Creative Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/48.-Medieval-Treasures.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T123000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T143052Z
UID:10000703-1783162800-1783168200@festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk
SUMMARY:Sustainability Walk - Travel
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 ‘Travel’ visiting various sites in and around Chester City Centre to illustrate live examples of what are demonstrations of sustainable low carbon travel.
URL:https://festivalofideas.chester.ac.uk/event/sustainability-walk-travel/
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:20260704T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260704T170000
DTSTAMP:20260525T175450
CREATED:20260518T080007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260513T142935Z
UID:10000737-1783162800-1783184400@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-3/
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
END:VCALENDAR