The International Conference on Public Policy, Globalization, and Health Rights became one of India's largest non-profit professional bodies dedicated to advancing research in the field of engineering and technology. In this regard, ASAR conducts conferences and workshops and publishes high-quality peer-reviewed journals. It aims to promote technical revolution among the present generation to shape the future of the world.

The government’s ambitious local government reorganisation (LGR) programme will replace all county and district councils with a single tier of unitary local government. Local authorities have submitted their preferred geographies to central government – but with reportedly 70 submissions across 21 two-tier areas, there is little consensus on the ideal footprints of future unitary authorities.  

Government is consulting the public and stakeholders, but ultimately it will fall to ministers to make these decisions – requiring potentially contentious judgements. Some local authorities favour fewer, larger geographies that offer greater efficiencies, others smaller councils that keep decision‑making closer to local communities. Final decisions will create winners and losers, and some outgoing authorities may resist the outcome.  

So how will these decisions shape the success of incoming unitary authorities? What weighting should ministers give to competing LGR criteria? How can ministers balance consistency of decisions with the need to tailor decisions for local areas? How can the government do this transparently?

To answer these questions and more, this IfG event – the first in a new Making a Success of Local Government Reorganisation series – will bring together an expert panel, including:  

• Councillor Kay Mason Billig, Leader of Norfolk County Council

• Joanne Brown, Partner, Public Sector Audit at Grant Thornton UK LLP  

• Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton and Hove City Council  

• Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Lords Minister for Housing and Local Government

This event will be chaired by Dr Matthew Fright, Senior Researcher at the Institute for Government.

The Institute for Government would like to thank Grant Thornton UK LLP for their support of this event, the first in a series on how to make a success of local government reorganisation (LGR)

Get ready for an amazing Chinese New Year Gala Show at Goldsmiths Confucius Institute in 2026!

Goldsmiths Confucius Institute 2026 Chinese New Year Gala

Join us for a spectacular evening of celebration at the Goldsmiths Confucius Institute 2026 Chinese New Year Gala!

On Thursday 26th February, Goldsmiths Confucius Institute for Dance and Performance will host its annual Chinese New Year Celebrations in Richard Hoggart Building's Great Hall at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Through a carefully curated programme of gatherings, hands-on workshops, high-quality artistic performances, interactive activities, and shared dining, the Gala invites participants to engage deeply with the atmosphere, traditions, and cultural expressions of the Spring Festival.

This year’s Gala is inspired by the Year of the Horse, a symbol traditionally associated with vitality, momentum, and a forward-looking spirit. The Horse represents energy, independence, and new beginnings. The Fire Horse further combines these qualities with the element of fire, symbolising passion, creativity, confidence, and transformation—reflecting a year of renewed energy, bold expression, and positive change.

Event Highlights

Artistic Performances

The Gala will feature performances by top professional dancers, presenting refined works that blend traditional cultural elements with contemporary artistic expression.

Immersive Cultural Workshops

Participants are invited to take part in a range of interactive workshops that form an integral part of the immersive experience, including:

• Handmade floral hair accessories

• Traditional paper-cutting

• Chinese calligraphy

• Chinese knotting

Can democracies still function when truth itself is destabilised - and what will it take to restore public trust?

Around the world, democracies are being outpaced by a rapidly evolving information crisis. AI-generated deepfakes, automated propaganda, and weaponised synthetic media are now flooding public discourse faster than institutions can respond. What the world is witnessing is a runaway surge of falsehoods, which is turbo-charging a deeper collapse in our democratic capacity to verify what’s real, deliberate together, and hold power to account.

At this pivotal moment, Eliot Higgins, founder of Bellingcat, is bringing forward a new framework for understanding and repairing the deeper democratic fractures beneath the disinformation crisis. This event marks the first public discussion of that work.

Eliot is joined by award-winning investigative journalist Carole Cadwalladr - campaigner for a free and accountable press - for a timely discussion in collaboration with Media Revolution campaigners and early adopters of the Bellingcat ARC framework. Together they will examine how AI is supercharging already established disinformation networks - and what new civic, investigative, and institutional infrastructures are needed to rebuild shared reality.

Speakers:

• Eliot Higgins, Founder, Bellingcat

• Carole Cadwalladr, Investigative Journalist

Chair:

• Liz Pendleton, Co-Founder, Media Revolution

Bringing Churches and Government Together for Social Good

The ChurchWorks Summit: Bringing Churches and Government Together for Social Good

The ChurchWorks Summit is where faith and policy meet to shape a better future. This one-day gathering unites senior church leaders, government ministers, public sector representatives, and charity leaders to explore how churches and public institutions can work together for social good.

Attendees will discover:

• Proven models of church–government collaboration

• Practical solutions to today’s toughest social challenges

• Opportunities to build relationships that drive long-term change

Key Themes

• Faith in public life

• Addressing the mental health crisis

• Tackling poverty & supporting vulnerable children

• Equipping churches to partner effectively with Local Authorities, the NHS, and other public services

Speaker Announcement

We are delighted to share that this event will be hosted by Justin Brierley, author of The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God and host of the Re-enchanting podcast. He will be joined by coshost Swarzy Shire, a powerhouse broadcaster, speaker, and creative whose work sits at the intersection of radio, culture, and Christian faith.

Why attend?

The Summit highlights successful church–government partnerships, showcases practical solutions to social challenges, and creates opportunities for meaningful collaboration.

Meet our workshop partners

We are delighted to be joined by Hope into Action, Stewardship, Spurgeons Connect, Gather Movement, Safe Families/Home for Good, Kids Matter, Dr Amit Sharma, At A Loss, ThirtyOne:Eight, TLG, Jersey Road, Growing Hope, Christians Against Poverty, Action Planning, Kintsugi Hope, Stone King LLP

Meet our exhibiting organisations

You can find the following Exhibitors at our marketplace:

Green Pastures, Home For Good/Safe Families, LifeWords, MAFS UK, Spurgeons, ThirtyOne:Eight, Acts 435, BRF Ministries, National Churches Trust, StoneKing LLP, Acts Trust, Appreciating Church, Christians Against Poverty, Care for the Family, Growing Hope.

You can also find out more via our ChurchWorks Summit website

Who Should Attend?

• National & local church leaders

• Senior politicians & civil servants

• Christian charities & funders

• Christian & mainstream media

"THIS Album..." Podcast returns to the stage for another night of comedy, music chat and general nonsense.

"THIS Album..." is the podcast where each episode a guest and I will deep dive an album of. their choice.

Any artist, any genre, any year and we have a bloody laugh while doing it.

I'm happy to announce two MASSIVE guests will be joining me for the second "THIS Album..." live show - Matthew Crosby and Jacob Hawley!

You may know Matthew from sketch comedy group / podcast Pappys or his his iconic Radio X show on Sunday mornings.

Or maybe, just maybe, you know him from his previous appearance on "THIS Album..." where we deep dived the ludicrous 100 Gecs.

Will it be equally as bonkers an album choice for his return? I'd bet 100 Gecs on it!

Jacob Hawley is one of the very best stand up comedians in the country and host of the almighty Screen Rot Podcast.

Screen Rot are headlining Shepherds Bush Empire in January, so what a great chance to see Jacob in a small venue while you still can.

It's an absolute pisstake of a line up and this is going to be a very, VERY fun night out.

Join Hackney WFC for a pub quiz fundraiser

Celebrate Hackney WFC’s 40th anniversary - pub quiz night!

As the first of a series of celebrations this year for Hackney WFC's 40th anniversary, join us for a fun and friendly pub quiz night. Open to everyone, football fan or not!

Teams of up to 6 will compete across a mix of rounds, with a £100 prize up for grabs.

Entry: £5 per person

Why we’re fundraising:

All proceeds will go directly toward supporting the future of Hackney WFC, including:

• Rising club costs (pitches, coaching, match access)

• Keeping subscriptions free or low-cost for players who need it

• New equipment and improved training resources

Founded as a safe and welcoming space for LGBT+ women to play football, community is still at the heart of everything we do at Hackney WFC. As a team, we continue to work toward making the game accessible for as many women and non-binary people as possible, regardless of background, experience or income. With growing costs in grassroots sport, your support helps us keep football open, inclusive, and thriving.

So gather your team, test your trivia knowledge, and help support 40 years of community football - and many more to come.

From Saturday 1st June 2024, Islington Square, on Upper Street, will be launching an eagerly anticipated and carefully curated weekly Saturday market in partnership with Urban Food Fest. The Islington Square market will take place every Saturday from 11am – 5pm on the Boulevard showcasing a bustling hub of local makers’ stalls offering mouthwatering street food, unforgettable desserts and artisanal products alongside creative crafts for all the family. 

To celebrate the launch of the market, on June 1st complimentary craft beers or soft drinks will be handed out with any market purchase.  

Visitors can unwind and relax in the vintage furniture seating area, while families can enjoy a free child-friendly arts and crafts station which is on offer each week. 

Join us for an afternoon of wine tasting in the Fulham Palace walled garden vinery, hosted by archaeologist and wine expert Kat Hornak.

From the vineyards of Campania to the walls of Roman Londinium, the wine we know and love today is part of a cultural legacy that spans two thousand years of rich history. Enjoy a cosy afternoon in the vinery as you sample a selection of delicious drinks from some of the capital’s leading urban wineries, including Blackbook and London Cru. From Serval Blanc to Chardonnay to Pinot Noir Précoce, there’ll be something to suit the varied tastes of even the most seasoned connoisseur.

Get ready to sweat it out and level up your fitness game with MAGNIMISE!

MAGNIMISE BOOTCAMP

Get ready to sweat it out at the ultimate fitness event brought to you by MAGNIMISE & ANN

DOORS WILL CLOSE AFTER 20 MINUTES do not be late ! This is to ensure no disrpution to the class ! If you are early please wait outside as there will be a previous class at hand. We are here to celebrate the stairmaster challenge with a workout!

DRIPWWTER have kindly ensured that we will have energy provided to fuel this workout to ensure that legs and abs will be burned to the highest intensity!

Join us for an intense workout session at UN1T Nine Elms and push your limits with a top trainer! Guiding you every step of the way.

This bootcamp is designed to challenge you, build strength, and leave you feeling energise. The Class is for ALL GENDERS & ALL FITNESS LEVELS!

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fitness game and connect with like-minded individuals. Come prepared to work hard, have fun, and leave feeling stronger than ever!

Changing rooms and showers are available !

It don’t mean a thang if it ain’t got… those ‘Jazz Notes’.

Enjoy sumptuous, chilled and scintillating jazz at ‘Jazz Notes’ jazz jam with the ‘Jazz, Soul, Funk Collective’ (JSFC),

The session welcomes lovers of jazz and good music and instrumentalists and singers who would like to jam on the day.

No matter the time, place or date. These cats can play!

****

Tickets £10.00 (plus booking fee)

Optional: delicious Sunday roast or vegan/vegetarian dishes served all day. Food and drink costs are not included in the entry ticket fee.

*****
Please note that seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and a ticket does not guarantee a seat.

A charity music gig supporting communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, hosted by the Sri Lanka Society.

🎶 Music for a Cause: Cyclone Ditwah Fundraising Gig 🇱🇰

Join us on Sunday 1st March from 2:30pm onwards at Colombo Kitchen, Putney for an afternoon of live music, togetherness and shared purpose to support a worthy cause.

🎤 Live Music
Enjoy performances by Natasha, Jason & Sandali, featuring acoustic music, followed by a DJ session to keep the rhythms going.

🍸 Refreshments

• Sri Lankan canapes (short eats) will be served at the start of the event.

• The bar will be open throughout the event for you to purchase your drinks.

• A veg and nonveg Kottu station will be available late afternoon. Kottu is a popular stir-fried Sri Lankan street food made of chopped roti, vegetables, eggs, spices, and meat.

• Gluten-free option available on request. Please email us at events@srilankasociety.org

💙 Why We’re Fundraising
This event aims to raise funds for individuals and families affected by Cyclone Ditwah, which struck Sri Lanka in November 2025. The cyclone caused severe flooding and widespread damage, affecting an estimated 1.5 million people, displacing communities, damaging homes, and disrupting livelihoods. Funds raised will support rebuilding efforts for those most impacted by the cyclone.

🌍 About the Organisers
The Sri Lanka Society is a UK registered charity (Charity Number: 269499) founded back in 1975 by four Sri Lankan expats, Dr. Raja Goonatilake, Mrs. Ratna Rajapakse, Dr. Ramanathan Sri-Pathmanathan and Mr. Harry Seevaratnam.

We are a non-political, non-racial and non-religious organisation formed primarily to help the underprivileged in Sri Lanka. We support small scale projects in healthcare, education, nutrition, which provide care to the most vulnerable in society, especially children, the elderly, terminally ill and other marginalised groups.

Further details about our Charity can be found on our website www.srilankasociety.org

🎟️ So let’s come together for great music and support a worthwhile cause!

Celebrate Estonia’s 108th Anniversary at the Estonian House in London!

Join the Estonian Society in London to celebrate the 108th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia at Estonian House, 18 Chepstow Villas, London W11 2RB.

• Welcome address from the Estonian Embassy in London

• Prayer by Pastor Lagle Heinla

• Performances by the Estonian School Children’s Choir (conducted by Reet Kromel Williams & Annaliisa Asveit)

• Performance by the London Estonian Mixed Choir (conducted by Martina Telgmaa)

• Welcome drink and festive table with traditional Estonian snacks

Come and join us for an afternoon of music, tradition, and community!

Laughter Factory comedy nights deliver a diverse lineup of comedians who excel in observational humour, satire, and sharp social commentary.

Join us for an evening of unparalleled entertainment as BLACK COMEDY UK proudly presents “Laughter Factory.” This event promises a night of non-stop laughter featuring some of the finest talent in the UK comedy scene.

HOST:

☆ CHRISTOPHER SAVAGE

COMEDIANS:

☆ FUNMBI

☆ VICTOR DANIELS

☆ KAYLEIGH LOUDMOUTH

☆ JAY HANDLEY

BLACK COMEDY UK

BLACK COMEDY UK are a group of seasoned specialists, passionate about curating unforgettable experiences that inspire, captivate and entertain our audiences. With accomplished Event Producers and some of the most creative minds in the industry, their events aim to deliver on every level. Since 2009, BLACK COMEDY UK has produced the biggest stand up comedy theatre productions and the highest number of shows of any event organisers on the black comedy circuit.

AUDIENCES

The black comedy circuit has the most diverse audience of all of the UK comedy circuits. People of all races, religions and backgrounds come to enjoy the shows and events. The circuit was born out of frustration, to give comedians from ethnic backgrounds that were ignored by the mainstream circuit a platform. Over time it has become the home for all comedians who feel marginalised or not accepted by the mainstream. This is reflected in the people that attend the events, people from all walks of life that feel welcome and at home.

VENUES

Our events take place in some of the most respected and historic performing arts venues in the UK, including Backyard Comedy Club in Bethnal Green.

Tickets sell-out, so be sure to book in advance!

Russia is intensifying its subversion campaign in Europe. On 29 December, a cyber attack compromised 30 energy facilities in Poland, damaging operational technology systems responsible for managing the distribution of energy. Although the attack was halted before it could cause a power outage, it still marked an escalation of Russia’s cyber campaign in Europe.

The attack raises questions about the extent of Russia’s access to European critical national infrastructure, as well as guesswork on where its sabotage campaign might strike next.

Speakers

To answer some of these questions, RUSI is hosting John Hultquist, the Chief Analyst of Google Threat Intelligence Group. John has over 25 years of experience in intelligence and special operations, principally covering emerging threats in cyber espionage. His team found and first publicly exposed the Russian threat actor best known as Sandworm. John is the founder of CYBERWARCON and SLEUTHCON, and he teaches at Johns Hopkins University.

John will be in conversation with Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor of The Economist and RUSI Advisory Board Member.

Tea and coffee will be served from 0900. The discussion will run from 0930 to 1030.

On 2 March 2026, the Institute for Government is delighted to welcome Rhun ap Iorwerth, Leader of Plaid Cymru, to discuss devolution, his plan for government and Plaid’s vision for Wales’ future.

This event will take place two months before the people of Wales cast their votes in the seventh election to Senedd Cymru (the Welsh Parliament) since it was established in 1999. The polls suggest that Plaid is on track to overturn Labour’s century-long dominance of Welsh politics to become the largest party in the Senedd for the first time, opening the path to Rhun ap Iorwerth becoming Wales’s next first minister.

Join us to hear the Plaid leader deliver a short speech on how he would govern as first minister, followed by a conversation with Akash Paun, Programme Director for Devolution at the Institute for Government, and a Q&A with the live and online audience.

Explore our work on devolution.

Andrew Lambert is the author of “NO MORE NAPOLEONS: HOW BRITAIN MANAGED EUROPE FROM WATERLOO TO WORLD WAR ONE”

He will meet with The Chelsea Society and explain how, for just under a century, Britain ensured it would not face another Napoleon – manipulating European powers while building a global maritime empire.  This is the remarkable story of how Britain kept a whole continent in check – until the final collapse of this delicately-balanced order in 1914.

At the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars, a fragile peace emerged in Europe. The continent’s borders were redrawn, and the French Empire, once a significant threat to British security, was for now cut down to size. But after decades of ceaseless conflict, Britain’s own economy was beset by a crippling debt. How could a small, insular seapower state secure order across the Channel?

Andrew Lambert argues for a dynamic new understanding of the nineteenth century, showing how British policymakers shaped a stable European system that it could balance from offshore. Through judicious deployment of naval power against continental forces, and the defence strategy of statesmen such as the Duke of Wellington, Britain ensured no single European state could rise to pose a threat, rebuilt its economy, and established naval and trade dominance across the globe.

Andrew Lambert is Laughton Professor of Naval History at King’s College London, and a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. He is the author of many books including Nelson, Seapower States and The British Way of War.

Tickets £25 (to include a glass of wine after the talk) available from the Box Office of the Cadogan Hall, 3 Sloane Terrace, London, SW1X 9DQ in person, or by phone 0207-730-4500  NB. The meeting is at Chelsea Old Town Hall, not at the Cadogan Hall, and will start promptly at 6pm

Join us to celebrate the Lunar New Year with an elegant evening in one of Chinatown’s leading venues. We are honoured to announce that the Rt Hon Sir Jeremy Hunt MP will be joining us as our special guest for this festive occasion.

Experience a wonderful gathering that blends cherished cultural traditions with the warmth of our local community. Join us from 6:30 pm, ready to sit down at 7:00 pm. Enjoy an exquisite eight-course banquet, carefully curated to showcase festive flavours, accompanied by fine wines and soft drinks.

The celebration continues beyond the dining table with a captivating live performance. You will also have the opportunity to meet Sir Jeremy, alongside your St James’s candidates for the Westminster Council local elections in May, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

We look forward to welcoming you for an evening of exceptional food, lively entertainment, and engaging conversation.

Overview

Come along to our Festival of Business!

Welcome to our 9th annual Festival of Business organised by your Local Chambers of Commerce where during the day we will showcase and champion business across the boroughs.

The Chamber exists to support firms, assisting them to grow and create new jobs, while at the same time encouraging new start-ups that innovate and fill the demands of the marketplace. At our Festival of Business, we give local companies a platform to demonstrate their products and services to our local economy.

Our job is to support and be the voice for business in our part of West London. We believe that when businesses are given the necessary space to grow, communities benefit from new jobs, property development and other economic activities that take shape.

The London Borough of Hounslow has a vibrant and diverse population of some 280,000 people and a business community in excess of some 18,000 companies that reflect all aspects of that diversity. London is the biggest economy in the UK and after the City of London and Canary Wharf we are the third largest economy in London. Additionally, our services now cover Ealing and Hammersmith & Fulham to nearly 1m people making the area the equivalent to the UK’s seventh largest city with a GDP of £40bn.

O n the day enjoy networking with businesses from West London, as well as from the wider UK and internationals!

Seminars: TBC

Tickets

Entry for visitors is completely free! You just need to book

See you there!

Overview

Welcome Back! Meet New People, Grow Your Business, Be Inspired By Experts and Discover The Latest Trends!

Business Growth Expo 2026: Accelerating Global Business Synergies!

Exhibition | Speakers | Seminars | Investment Pitch Fest | Business Awards | Panel Discussions | Hands-on Workshops

Unlock Limitless Possibilities for Your Business at the Business Growth Expo 2026

Join the top tier of global commerce at the Business Growth Expo 2026: Accelerating Global Business Synergies!. A stage set for you and 1000+ prospective buyers to engage, collaborate, and innovate. Celebrate your business alongside 100+ exhibitors, drawing inspiration from cutting-edge seminars on AI, Business innovations, Sustainability, Corporate Well-being, Business Growth, Finance, Investment and more. Immerse yourself in the buzzing London's business landscape, a proven incubator for economic progression. Historical data reveals our exhibitors experienced an upswing in leads by an impressive 38%.

Women in Westminster: The 100 is a celebration recognising the outstanding achievements of women and the vital role they play in shaping public life. Each year, we highlight one hundred individuals who are making a significant and lasting impact across the Westminster landscape.

Our Board of Patrons carefully review a wide range of nominations to select the final list. The 100 includes parliamentarians, journalists, civil servants, campaigners, think tankers, public affairs professionals, and many others influencing UK politics and public service.

These women have not only excelled in their roles – they have led the way. The 100 celebrates those who are driving change, shaping the future, and inspiring those around them.

🕺 Join us for another Next Generation drinks on Tuesday, 3rd March! 💃

​For our March TNG, we are thrilled to be joined by the Deputy Editor of the New Statesman, Will Lloyd. A master of the long-form takedown, Will has carved out a reputation as one of the most distinctive voices in British journalism. Whether he’s dissecting the ego of a Cabinet Minister or unpicking the failure of a party conference, he has become the preeminent field reporter of Britain’s political bubble.

​Will was previously a reporter at the Sunday Times and a pet insurance salesman in Sydney, Australia. The two jobs had nothing in common. He lives in Bloomsbury, with a framed photograph of Virginia Woolf.

​Will joins us to share his Field Guide to Reporting the Westminster Bubble. He’ll be lifting the lid on how the Lobby really works, the art of the political profile and more fascinating political tid-bits. 

​Come for the insights, stay for the gossip, and help us peer behind the curtain over a few glasses of wine.

Join us Wednesday 4 March, 3.00pm - 5.00pm for our special complimentary Open Week Networking Event. Our two hour taster networking event will give you the opportunity to enjoy some drinks and nibbles while you find out more about the Chamber, meet the membership team and ask any questions!

Please note that this event is for non-members and community participants only and that non-members must sign up to our free London Chamber Community Network in order to book on to the event.

London Job Fair for the Film & TV Industry

We'd love to welcome everyone to the 11th London Film & TV Job Fair!

If you're looking for work opportunities, would like to learn new ways to develop your career or would simply like to network with like-minded filmmakers then come along to the London Film & TV Job Fair.

There will be a range of company stands including:

• Production Companies looking to hire

• Individual feature and short film productions looking to hire

• Film & TV Recruitment Companies

• Casting & Extras Agents

• Runner & Crew Agencies

• Further resources for finding work in the Film & TV industry

On the day you will be able to:

• Talk to employers, recruiters and agents face to face

• Ask employers questions to find out exactly what they are looking for and how to apply to maximise your chances of success.

• Make an amazing first impression with your personality instead of relying solely on written CV

• Discover the range of options there are when looking for work in the Film & TV industry in London

• Network with hundreds of filmmakers and build lasting relationships that will help you grow your career

• In just a few hours you could walk out with a wide range of industry contacts to help grow your career, a better CV, knowledge of how to apply for jobs, potential interviews lined up, or even a job.

Multi-platinum selling artist mgk announces his highly anticipated 2025 tour, The Lost Americana Tour in support of his seventh studio album Lost Americana, which includes a night at The O2 on Thursday 5 March 2026.

The Lost Americana Tour is set to be his biggest global headline run yet. With more than 20.6 billion streams and millions of albums sold globally, mgk continues to push boundaries as a genre-defying artist and electrifying live act.

Official tour of the highest court in the land, housed in a beautiful Grade II Listed building.

Come and visit the highest court in the land. Your tour will be led by an experienced member of staff who will show you our beautiful courtrooms. Discover a splendid collection of original stained glass and art works.

As well as viewing the ornate exterior, you will be given an insight into the workings of the Supreme Court, the background to its creation and some of the famous cases that have been heard here.

Tours are approximately an hour long, led by an experienced guide, with time for questions throughout.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, soprano Nardus Williams, lutenist Elizabeth Kenny and classicist and historian Mary Beard present a programme exploring the theme of ‘Women and Power’. This relationship is addressed through an interweaving of music for voice and lute, with discussion on topics ranging from Sappho to women’s solidarity.

The programme includes music by Barbara Strozzi, Francesca Caccini and Claudia Sessa, with poetry from Nossis to Carol Ann Duffy, and features a new setting of the Eurydice myth as a rebuttal or ‘anti-lament’, by Master of the King’s Music Errollyn Wallen.

On Monday, 9th March 2026, join us to mark a monumental milestone - the 250th anniversary of the publication of The Wealth of Nations.

To celebrate the legacy of Adam Smith, we are delighted to welcome Rory Sutherland - Vice-Chairman of Ogilvy UK and Britain’s most bohemian adman - to the National Liberal Club.

Exactly 250 years after the publication of Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations, Rory reflects on how the seismic events of 1776 forged the modern world. With his characteristic wit and flair, he will weave together the significance of Smith’s economic masterpiece with other pivotal milestones of that year, including the American Revolution, the invention of the Steam Engine, and Edward Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.

Join us as we pay tribute to the 250-year legacy of Adam Smith and the dawn of modernity.

Event Details

• Date: Monday, 9th March 2026

• Venue: National Liberal Club, 1 Whitehall Place, London, SW1A 2HE

• Reception: 6:30 PM (The Smoking Room) – Your ticket includes one complimentary drink.

• Lecture: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM (The David Lloyd George Room)

• Q&A: 15 minutes of audience discussion will follow the lecture.

China’s push for technological self-reliance is poised to reshape global economic and geopolitical dynamics, yet its wider implications remain under-analysed.

Convened shortly after the launch of China’s Fifteenth Five-Year Plan, this closed-door invitation-only briefing will bring together leading experts to discuss the Plan’s focus on “new frontiers” - emerging strategic arenas such as AI, quantum, digital and space infrastructure and biotechnology and through which Beijing seeks to generate new sources of growth, power and international influence.

The dialogue is hosted by the Centre for Geopolitics of Global Change at ODI Global, and forms part of ODI Global's work engaging with decisionmakers to understand China’s perspectives and approaches to global challenges.

​Join us for a Book Launch assessing the relationship between autocracy, economic liberalisation and low-carbon energy sources with Dr McPherson-Smith on Wednesday, 11th March

​Why do some autocrats embrace the free market while others retreat into protectionism? Conventional wisdom suggests that resource-rich regimes only liberalise when they are desperate for cash. In his new book, Crude Calculations, ASI Senior Fellow Dr Oliver McPherson-Smith challenges this perspective.

​Drawing on nearly a century of political and legal history in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, Dr. McPherson-Smith introduces the "Rent-Conditional Reform Theory." He argues that for non-democratic regimes, economic liberalisation is a "luxury good" - something pursued during commodity booms when the state has enough "rent" to buy off dissent, and abandoned during downturns to preserve regime stability.

​As the world undergoes a global energy transition, this talk will explore the precarious future of fossil-fuel autocracies and the rising political power of states rich in battery minerals.

​Joining us is Dr Oliver McPherson-Smith, a Senior Fellow at the Adam Smith Institute and an expert in the intersection of energy policy, geopolitics, and innovation. He previously served as the inaugural Executive Director of the National Energy Dominance Council in the White House and was a Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution. He holds a DPhil in Politics from the University of Oxford and an MA from Harvard University.

​​​​​​Doors open at 6pm for a sharp 6.30pm start. There will be a 15-minute address by Dr McPherson-Smith followed by 10–15 minutes of audience Q&A.

Care England’s next conference and exhibition, themed “Stand By Me: Together We Make a Difference” will take place on Thursday, 12 March 2026 at the Church House Conference Centre in Westminster.

We are delighted to invite you to join us for our much-anticipated annual event, bringing together leaders, innovators, and dedicated professionals from across the care sector.

Join us in Pimlico on Thursday, 12 March, for a fun-filled evening of quizzing.

Our Pimlico Quiz Nights are great fun and open to all! Enjoy hot, freshly cooked food, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Let your hair down and socialise with like-minded people at this fun get-together, whilst exercising those little grey cells.

You're welcome to put a team together in advance, or join one on the night. There will also be a raffle with some excellent prizes on offer. Don’t let your branch down! We strongly encourage every branch to put forward a team, and the councillors too!

Winner crowned with the prestigious Sally Tooth Cup.

We look forward to welcoming you.

All event bookings are subject to our standard terms and conditions, which you can read here.

This event is organised by the Pimlico South branch of the Cities of London & Westminster Conservative Association.

This year's conference will be held in London on Saturday,14 March at St Luke’s Community Centre, London, EC1V 8AJ.

Abstract deadline extension!

The deadline for submission of abstracts for the Radical Statistics Conference 2026, “Using data to promote progressive social change” has been extended to 23:59 GMT on Sunday 22nd February.

This year, we have multiple possibilities for submission – designed to enable everyone to participate:

Short presentations: ideally suited to a single piece of work.

Long presentations: more detailed presentations about a single piece of work or a summary of multiple pieces of linked work around a theme

Lightning talks and posters: generally for shorter or less well-developed ideas or discussion points, but can also be for bigger pieces of work (do you have a poster you’ve prepared for another occasion that you think would be good for the Radical Statistics conference?)

Abstracts of up to 300 words should be submitted to conf26@radstats.org.uk – please also indicate your preferred type of talk (final decisions will be down to the Organising Committee).

All accepted abstracts will be made available here – with presenters encouraged to expand their work for a full article.

Step into a celebration of craft, culture and community at our Nowruz Bazaar, where the spirit of Persian New Year comes to life through art, design and tradition.

The Bazaar is a showcase of creativity, offering visitors the chance to explore beautiful handmade work while discovering the stories and heritage behind this ancient spring festival. From intricate crafts to contemporary interpretations of tradition, it’s an opportunity to connect with the artistic energy and generosity at the heart of Nowruz, and perhaps take a special piece home with you.

The Bazaar will take place across the ground floor of Lauderdale House on Saturday 14 March and Sunday 15 March. On Saturday, a series of free talks will run upstairs in the Long Gallery  alongside the Bazaar at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm, and on Sunday our Nowruz Family Day will take place in the Long Gallery at the same time.

We’re thrilled to welcome more than 20 artisans and community organisations this year; scroll down for a preview of who will be joining us.

The Mayor of London’s St Patrick’s Festival is back on Sunday 15 March 2026.

This annual event has become a highlight of London’s cultural calendar, bringing together visitors and Londoners alike to celebrate the many contributions the Irish community have made to our great city.

Expect a multitude of green as we take over central London for the spectacular parade with exciting floats, marching bands, dance troupes and pageantry.

We can't wait to welcome you at St Patrick's Festival!

Join us for an exclusive screening of Part 1 of our landmark two-part television documentary - a profound exploration of 20th-century history that traces Communism’s harrowing descent from idealistic hope to systemic oppression.

Narrated by the acclaimed Hugh Bonneville, this film brings together esteemed historians and the courageous voices of survivors to examine how ideologies born of optimism ultimately paved the way for deprivation and slaughter under the era’s most notorious dictatorships.

Event Schedule

• Screening: Part 1 of the Documentary (Narrated by Hugh Bonneville)

• Discussion: A 30-minute Q&A session will immediately follow the film.

Leading our Q&A is Steve Baker, Chairman of Fighting For a Free Future and a former Member of Parliament known for his fierce advocacy of classical liberal values. Driven by a profound instinct for protecting the rights of the individual, Steve will navigate the complex themes of the film, bringing his signature passion for freedom to this critical conversation on historical tyranny.

Location: Central London Cinema (TBD). The location is currently listed as the Adam Smith Institute. This will be updated once the screening venue is confirmed.

Timing: The screening will begin at 6:30 and last for 40 minutes. After this, Steve Baker will facilitate a Q&A.

As Reform chips away at the Tory vote, the party faces a stark choice – join forces with Reform or fight alone.

As Reform chips away at the Tory vote, the Conservatives face a stark choice – join forces with Nigel Farage or fight alone. James Heale, The Spectator’s deputy political editor, will be joined by Conservative peer Daniel Hannan, journalist and politician Paul Goodman, shadow cabinet member Victoria Atkins, and former Brexit secretary David Davis as they lock horns over what a Conservative–Reform pact might look like – and whether it should happen at all.

Just over seven years ago, Reform UK burst on to the political scene promising a ‘democratic revolution’. Once dismissed as a ‘brilliant failure’, it now tops the polls and claims Britain’s largest party membership. By contrast, the Conservatives, after years of scandal and disappointment, are rapidly losing ground. With no clear majority in sight for either party, the question of whether the right should unite or compete has become increasingly pressing. Conservative critics, however, warn that any alliance would betray their core principles and could prove a serious strategic misstep.

Join us to hear our panel discuss the future of both parties and debate one of the defining questions facing the right.

This event will have a short 10-minute interval.

The Guardian’s investigations team has built a formidable reputation for their vital work over the decades, exposing wrongdoing and holding the powerful to account. Amid continued assault on the free press and the rise of misinformation around the world, how do we protect their vital investigative reporting? How do investigative reporters operate in an age of surveillance? And how do they publish stories in a legal playing field stacked against public interest reporting?

The Guardian’s head of investigation Paul Lewis will chair our panel of investigative correspondents, Sirin Kale, Lucy Osborne, Harry Davies, and David Conn, who have worked on some of our most consequential stories.

Join us for a deep dive into the stories behind some of the Guardian’s biggest headlines. Live in London and online, this is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand on their most powerful investigative projects and to ask them your own questions.

The Parliament’s People Awards recognise the inspirational teams and individuals who have shown an impressive dedication and commitment to supporting a thriving parliamentary democracy.

MPs and Peers from across the United Kingdom nominate their teams and team members for recognition each year, with the Awards being a highlight of the parliamentary calendar.

The Awards culminate in an exclusive, celebratory event in the House of Commons on Tuesday 17th March 2026.

Vice Admiral Kyte will address the challenges facing defence logistics in an increasingly complex and dangerous global environment. He will emphasise the shift from uncontested to contested logistics, where supply chains are vulnerable at all levels. This includes resource scarcity, the need for a rapid reconfiguration between peacetime and wartime operations, cyber security threats, and the challenges of integrating diverse supply chain elements across an estimated 100 plus different platforms across the MoD.

This briefing will highlight the problems of underinvestment, legacy IT systems, and inflexible contracts, while proposing solutions such as digital modernisation, improved industry collaboration, and the need to value supportability and availability in procurement decisions. Vice Admiral Kyte will discuss the need to adopt innovative approaches to overcome these challenges and prepare for future conflicts should they arise.

Vice Admiral Kyte will set his briefing within the context of the new National Armaments Director (NAD) Group, highlighting the opportunities being part of the Group presents.

Speaker Biography

Vice Admiral Andy Kyte CB FCILT assumed his current role in September 2023. A career logistician, he has over 38 years’ service, including operational tours in Northern Ireland, the Arabian Gulf and Afghanistan. Previous appointments include Head of Defence Logistic Operations and command of the High Readiness Joint Force Logistic HQ. In 2018, he was appointed as the Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Support Operations). Prior to assuming his current appointment, he led a study for the Chief of the Defence Staff, focused on increasing defence outputs.

Joining Instructions and Attribution

This is an in-person only event for Major Organisation level members and above, taking place at RUSI, 61 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ET.

The event is 'off the record'.

Tea, coffee and pastries will be available from 09:00 BST.

Total Place Now is a one-day convention bringing together local system leaders and national policymakers to accelerate place‑based public service reform.

It focuses on how places are already re‑orientating existing public spend around people, place and partnership, and what would help them go further, faster.

This is not a theoretical debate. It is a working convention rooted in live policy decisions, real delivery experience, and the shared task of scaling what works.

The main purpose of International Conference on Globalization and International Development Policy is to bring industry professionals, experts, academicians, and scholars to discuss their expertise for better collaboration in the field

Join government officials, global business and civil society leaders to explore strategies for navigating economic uncertainty in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

Policymakers, business leaders and civil society experts at the heart of global trade find themselves in a period of great uncertainty. To some, this is an environment of ‘strategic chaos’. To others, this period represents something fundamentally more concerning that threatens to send repeated shockwaves across the global economy. As the second Trump administration reshapes the US approach to international commerce, the multilateral trading system and the norms that have dominated this environment for decades face a severe test. The World Trade Organization, among others, is fighting to maintain a rules-based order, but escalating trade wars and economic nationalism increasingly challenge the principles of open markets. Meanwhile, the intersection of national security and economic policy is fundamentally altering how nations and multinationals approach their international partnerships and critical supply chains.

This turbulent environment has created both opportunities and vulnerabilities for major and emerging economies. Major Asian markets are positioning themselves to leverage their distinct advantages to accelerate their economic growth. Meanwhile, European nations are grappling with national and supranational demands, while seeking to balance competitiveness and resilience for their increasingly restive populations. The implications of this strategic realignment extend far beyond traditional trade metrics, too. Supply chains have become instruments of national security policy, technological advancement is driving new forms of economic competition, and the fight for critical materials will have a major effect on global climate commitments. As businesses and governments navigate this uncertain landscape, the question remains whether any stakeholder truly benefits from the current trajectory of global trade or whether divides and imbalances will become more entrenched to the detriment of the global economy.

The 2026 Global Trade Conference examines key developments in global trade policy, exploring how major economies are adapting to a world where economic security often outweighs free trade principles and whether the multilateral system can withstand the pressures of growing fragmentation.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Business

Join us for an inspiring International Women’s Day event bringing together successful business women and students from Brentford School for Girls. This special gathering will feature a panel of accomplished women from a range of industries who will share their personal career journeys, lessons learned, and insights into leadership, ambition, and resilience.

Network with fellow businesses and entrepreneurs, and gain new connections! If you're new and curious about West London Chambers of Commerce, come along and meet the team in person! Whether you’re looking to grow your network, promote your business, or simply meet like-minded professionals, this event is the perfect way to start your day.

Coffee/tea, juice and pastries will be provided. All you need to do is RSVP and bring your business cards.

See you there!

Seven-time GRAMMY® nominated R&B superstar GIVĒON has announced his brand-new headline tour, ‘Dear Beloved, The Tour’, with a show at The O2 on Thursday 19 March 2026.

The tour, produced by Live Nation, will feature special guests Sasha Keable and Baby Rose. 

Dear Beloved, The Tour will be GIVĒON’s first return to Europe since his overwhelmingly successful 2023 Give or Take Tour. The singer’s return to stage mirrors his return to the booth; BELOVED is GIVĒON’s first studio album since 2022’s Give or Take. The sophomore album, released in July, is his second album to debut within the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 (#8) and his first solo album to achieve the feat (When It’s All Said and Done… Take Time). His comeback campaign has been champagne-worthy, with a four-star review from Rolling Stone and critical acclaim from Variety, Associated Press, UPROXX, Hypebeast and more.

GIVĒON has made global headlines with his renewed stage presence. Earlier this year, Drake brought him out as a special guest at Wireless Festival in the UK. GIVĒON featured on Drake’s “Chicago Freestyle” in 2021, which contributed significantly to the singer’s star turn.

“How this album is going to translate to the live show – I think it’s going to be magical because the album was made live, so it’s made to be performed live,” GIVĒON told Rolling Stone before kicking off the USA leg of the brand-new tour. “It’s going to be my best tour. I want to do strings, I want to do horns, I want to do background vocals, so I feel like [I’ll have] a full eight to 10 piece [backing band], depending on how big the stages are. The album is really a movie, it’s a world, and I want the night to feel like that.”

Supply side revival? How to escape the fiscal squeeze

We are delighted to welcome the economist and commentator, Simon French, to join us as Guest of Honour at the 2026 Two Cities Annual Economics Dinner. Simon will speak about the future of financial services and the implications for the UK’s economy. This talk will be followed by an in-depth question-and-answer session.

The event will be held at a private members' club in St James's, central London, with a pre-dinner drinks reception starting at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner at 7 pm sharp.

International Conference on Transportation, Cities, and Poverty Reduction is an important organization that works towards advancing the field of science and technology. It motivates students and young researchers to engage in research activities. It offers resources to proceed with deeper research, funding for the researchers who have economic constraints, and mentorship to support and guide research projects.It also assists researchers in publishing their work in high-quality journals and conferences.

All bouts are live and subject to change.

UFC®, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation, has announced its highly anticipated return to London The O2 on Saturday 21 March 2026, with No. 1 ranked featherweight Movsar Evloev set to take on No. 4 featherweight Manchester’s Lerone Murphy.

Movsar Evloev (19-0-0, fighting out of Sunzha, Ingushetia, Russia) has earned nine straight victories inside the Octagon. Known for his dominant, grappling-heavy style, the undefeated standout holds wins over former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, Arnold Allen and Diego Lopes.

Lerone Murphy, (17-0-1, fighting out of Manchester, England) tops the marquee in London for the first time. Unbeaten across 11 UFC appearances, “The Miracle” is coming off a Knockout of the Year performance against Aaron Pico at UFC 319 in August that extended his winning streak to 10 and established him as a legitimate threat in the featherweight division.

Meanwhile, Luke Riley (12-0-0, fighting out of Liverpool, England) is back in action after an impressive UFC debut in Qatar, where he produced an emphatic KO finish against Bogdan Grad. Riley is known for his confidence, composure and finishing instinct, he’s entering this next fight with momentum and the intent to announce himself as a serious presence in the featherweight division.

Michael Aswell Jr. (11-3-0, fighting out of Houston, Texas), returns to the Octagon® following his round one win against Lucas Almeida. Aswell Jr. brings a relentless pace and a well-rounded skill set that makes him a dangerous matchup for Liverpool’s Riley.

This house believes we should abolish the licence fee.

Motion: This house believes we should abolish the licence fee.

FOR: Charles Moore and Allison Pearson

AGAINST: Michael Gove and Jon Sopel

Moderated by: Isabel Hardman

Editorial errors, ideological bias and partisan presenters – what has happened to the BBC? Once considered a national treasure and a bastion of pioneering journalism around the world, ‘Auntie’ is now just as likely to make the headlines as to report them. Is it time to defund – or defend – this once great institution?

Recent controversies have shaken trust in the Corporation and provoked fierce controversy, from allegations of editorial bias (Gaza, net zero, trans rights) and poor judgment (Bob Vylan’s appearance at Glastonbury, that edited Donald Trump speech) to high-profile resignations (Richard Sharp, Tim Davie, Deborah Turness) and sexual scandals (Jimmy Savile, Huw Edwards, Rolf Harris).

The BBC’s traditional funding model, centred on the licence fee, is also increasingly under strain as the wider media landscape shifts. Audiences are fragmenting across global streaming platforms and social media, while rising production costs and intense competition from commercial giants are all hitting the Corporation hard. Licence-fee evaders and refuseniks now cost the BBC £1 billion a year in lost revenue, putting its public service remit even further at risk.

So is the BBC still a vital public service that ‘educates, informs, and entertains’ the nation – or a relic from the past? Watch The Spectator’s Charles Moore, who was fined after refusing to pay his licence fee, and the Telegraph’s Allison Pearson go up against Spectator editor and former BBC journalist Michael Gove and former BBC America editor Jon Sopel at this very special event.

Gunna has announced his upcoming Wun World Tour, which will be heading to The O2 on Wednesday 25 and Tuesday 31 March 2026.

The Wun World Tour supports Gunna’s sixth studio album, The Last Wun, which was released August 8, 2025 via YSL Records and 300 Entertainment. It has quickly proven itself as a major cultural and commercial moment, making an explosive debut at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and #3 on the Billboard 200, while maintaining remarkable staying power with six consecutive weeks in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 and five straight weeks at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop chart.

Explore the legacy of one of our best loved novelists, Jane Austen.

Join Sunday Times bestselling author, Gill Hornby in conversation about all things Austen including the inspiration behind her Jane Austen trilogy of books, and the important role of Cassandra Austen in Jane’s life and legacy.

This in-conversation event will take place at The National Archives in Kew. The event will last approximately one hour and will be followed by a book signing and a chance to visit our Love Letters exhibition featuring the will of Jane Austen. A pop-up bar will be open for visitors to purchase drinks and snacks before the talk starts.

Discover more about our free exhibition, Love Letters, open until Sunday 12 April 2026.

Gill Hornby is the author of The Hive and All Together Now, as well as The Story of Jane Austen, a biography of Austen for younger readers.

Her subsequent novels, Miss Austen and Godmersham Park were Sunday Times bestsellers, and Miss Austen is a four-part BBC adaptation starring Keely Hawes as Cassandra Austen. She is also the President of the Jane Austen Society.

About the Discussion

The talk is about a very successful, highly instructive free market in money episode, with the silver-backed "Mark Banco" serving as a sound unit of account for around 250 years.

About the Speaker

​Dr Thorsten Polleit is Honorary Professor of Economics at the University of Bayreuth, Germany. He worked as an economist for more than 15 years in the international investment banking industry. From 2012 to 2023 he was chief economist and board member of Europe’s largest precious metal trading house. Thorsten is Adjunct Scholar of the Ludwig von Mises Institute, Auburn, US Alabama, and founder and President of the Ludwig von Mises Institut Deutschland, Germany. He is publisher of Dr. Polleit's BOOM & BUST REPORT.

About the Series

This will be the next instalment in our monthly Food for Thought series, hosted in partnership with the Vinson Centre at the University of Buckingham. The purpose of this series is to foster high-level academic discussion on themes within the classical liberal tradition, touching on economics, philosophy, history, law, and related disciplines. In turn, we hope to form a community of academics, policymakers, professionals, and students united by the exchange of ideas and life-long learning.

Join us at a new venue, Porsche West London on 26th March 2026, for an evening (from 6.30pm) networking event. Hear from a Porsche specialist as they talk through the latest models, including exciting EV options. Connect with fellow guests over canapés, wine, and refreshments throughout the evening.

International Conference on Globalization, Human Rights, and Economic Policy is a global organization that is completely dedicated to advancing science, engineering, and technology. It has initiated a technical revolution through its innovative approach and strategy. The Research Plus forum consists of leading researchers, global leaders, and scientists who drive technological advancements. With such a strong forum, it tries to make a significant impact by using science to solve the issues that are a global threat.

Gunna has announced his upcoming Wun World Tour, which will be heading to The O2 on Wednesday 25 and Tuesday 31 March 2026.

The Wun World Tour supports Gunna’s sixth studio album, The Last Wun, which was released August 8, 2025 via YSL Records and 300 Entertainment. It has quickly proven itself as a major cultural and commercial moment, making an explosive debut at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and #3 on the Billboard 200, while maintaining remarkable staying power with six consecutive weeks in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 and five straight weeks at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop chart.

Josh Groban will be heading to The O2 on Wednesday 1 April 2026 for his Gems World Tour.

5 Seconds of Summer returns to The O2 on Thursday 2 April 2026 for their Everyone’s A Star! World Tour.

Mark your calendars! The 2026 Grand National is set for Saturday, April 11th, at 4pm.

Taking place at Aintree Racecourse and sponsored by Randox Health, this historic race spans 4 miles and 514 yards. The course is punctuated by 30 thrilling jumps that both horse and jockey must expertly navigate.

It's Europe's most lucrative jumps race, with a prize pool of £1 million. Join a global audience of 600 million from 140 countries and a crowd of over 70,000 spectators at Aintree to witness this spectacle.

The stakes are high as 34 of the finest horses and jockeys gear up for what's often called the ultimate challenge in British horse racing. The brave horses and jockeys will have to face and overcome legendary fences like The Chair, Canal Turn, and Becher’s Brook in their quest for Aintree glory.

Where Government Meets Innovation

The GovTech Summit, powered by Founders Forum Group and PUBLIC, is the UK's leading forum connecting senior government decision-makers with tech pioneers to transform public services. 

Join a curated community of public sector innovators, tech founders, and investors for a day of practical discussions on AI implementation, procurement reform, and public-private collaboration.

The Nest Collective invites you to enjoy a beautiful show with Dani Larkin as part of her 2026 Next of Kin tour.

Join us at Trafalgar Square on Saturday 18 April, from 12pm to 6pm, for Vaisakhi on the Square – a celebration of Sikh culture, heritage, and the founding of the Khalsa. This free, family-friendly event offers vibrant performances, cultural activities, delicious food, and a warm community spirit. It’s a day everyone can enjoy.

In the welcoming spirit of Langar, everyone is invited to share free vegetarian treats and traditional Indian tea, reflecting Sikh values of kindness, inclusivity, and community.

Whether you’re drawn by the music, history, food, or simply the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

We can't wait to welcome you to Vaisakhi on the Square 2026!

What is Vaisakhi

Vaisakhi is one of the most important dates in the Sikh calendar. It represents the establishment of the Khalsa Panth (Nation) by the tenth Guru of the Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699.

A principle passed on by Guru Gobind Singh Ji was recognising the whole human race as one – regardless of faith, background or gender. 

For many Vaisakhi represents the birth of the Sikh identity. 

Specifically, Vaisakhi is marked by a Nagar Kirtan. This is a procession of the Sikh community from one gurdwara (temple) to another. It often features spiritual hymns (kirtan), langar (food) and Gatka, a Sikh martial art. 

Celebrate Vaisakhi on the Square 2026 with us in the heart of London on 18 April. This event is a cornerstone of London's cultural scene, featuring the finest arts, culture, food and music, along with a vibrant parade.  

We're inviting community groups, charities, retailers, and caterers to take part in this spectacular event in Trafalgar Square. Express your interest in hosting a stall by submitting your application now.  

The Sidemen Charity Match is back! On Saturday, April 18th, the Sidemen will take over Wembley Stadium for a spectacular football match, featuring some of the biggest creators from around the world.

It’ll be an unforgettable game between Sidemen FC and YouTube Allstars in aid of Bright Side and M7 Education.

Age Restrictions

No under 2s are permitted inside the stadium.

All under 14s should be accompanied by a responsible adult

About this event

Join us for a free, family-friendly festival celebrating English culture on Sunday 19 April, from 12pm to 6pm in Trafalgar Square. Hosted by the Mayor of London, this vibrant event brings together live music, dance, workshops, crafts and street food; with something for everyone.

Organised by the Mayor of London, the event celebrates England’s heritage and the diversity of Londoners – welcoming people of all backgrounds, faiths and communities.

We look forward to welcoming you to St George's Day on the Square 2026.

About St George

St George's Day is traditionally celebrated on 23 April each year, and is recognised as England’s national day on the anniversary of his death in 303 AD.

Admired for his bravery, the patron saint of England has captivated British imaginations since the Crusades and the Hundred Years' War.

Celebrate St George’s Day 2026 with us in the heart of London on 19 April. This event is a cornerstone of London's cultural scene, featuring the finest arts, culture, food and music, along with a vibrant parade.

We're inviting community groups, charities, retailers, and caterers to take part in this spectacular event in Trafalgar Square. Express your interest in hosting a stall by submitting your application now.

Join us on 21st April at the National Growth Debate, a landmark summit of leaders and policy experts to discuss the best way to get every corner of Britain growing. Now more than ever the scale of the ambition has to meet the scale of the challenge, and that necessitates bringing together the best ideas from every corner of politics.

Register your interest with ben@goodgrowthfoundation.co.uk to receive updates.* Please also reach out to Ben if you’re an organisation who’s interested in partnership opportunities at the National Growth Debate.

Keep an eye out for our exciting speakers to be announced!

Yungblud, has announced his upcoming Idols tour, which is stopping at The O2 on Friday 24 April 2026.

Taking to social media to reveal details of the upcoming tour, Yungblud posted, “UK. It’s been two years! I’m so excited to announce our biggest shows yet.”

‘Idols’, the forthcoming album by Yungblud is out on 20 June 2025 via Locomotion/ Island Records. Last Friday, the artist released the emotionally driven and anthemic, Zombie, whose powerful video stars Academy Award-nominated Florence Pugh as an NHS healthcare worker coping under immense emotional and physical strain. NME described the single as “soaring and poignant” while the London Standard recently called Yungblud a “genuine Gen Z rock phenomenon”. This week, Yungblud expressed his gratitude to the NHS by giving 1,000 healthcare professionals free tickets to this year’s Bludfest.

Yungblud is fast becoming one of the key musical voices of his generation, blending influences from Rock, Punk and Pop to monumental effect. His arena-filling performances around the world have cemented his place as one Britain’s most electrifying musical exports.

Pentatonix have announce their headline show at The O2 as part of their upcoming tour, taking place on Sunday 26 April 2026.

“We’re thrilled to be heading back on tour across Europe and the UK this Spring!” Kirstin Maldonado of Pentatonix says. “We can’t wait to reconnect with our fans overseas and share everything we’ve been working on. This show will be unlike anything we have done before and may even include some new music!  It’s going to be a special experience that we are so excited to share together.”

About the Discussion

This discussion is an attempt to look at how Hayekian perception of competition as a discovery procedure is attributable not only to market agents themselves but also to regulators enforcing competition rules. The main focus in UK & EU new digital markets regime (Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act in the UK and Digital Markets Act in the EU): both regimes give unprecedented discretion to enforcers, and the question which this discussion reflects upon is whether the enforcers are mindful of what to do with it.

About the Speaker

Prof. Andriychuk specialises in Competition Law & Digital Markets and in the Constitutional / Jurisprudential Aspects of Competition Policy. He is engaged in several research and knowledge exchange projects aiming to understand, conceptualise, inform and steer the ongoing regulatory reforms of competition in the digital economy in the UK, EU and some EU Member States. He also contributes to reforming of competition law and policy of Ukraine.
He is the Principal Investigator for the UK in an AHRC & DFG (German Research Foundation) funded 3-year major grant "Shaping Competition in the Digital Age (SCiDA) – Principles, tools and institutions of digital regulation in the UK, Germany and the EU" examining the effectiveness of EU Digital Markets Act, UK Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act and amended German Competition Act – jointly with Prof. Rupprecht Podszun (the Principal Investigator for the German side) – 03/2024–03/2027

About the Series

This will be the next instalment in our monthly Food for Thought series, hosted in partnership with the Vinson Centre at the University of Buckingham. The purpose of this series is to foster high-level academic discussion on themes within the classical liberal tradition, touching on economics, philosophy, history, law, and related disciplines. In turn, we hope to form a community of academics, policymakers, professionals, and students united by the exchange of ideas and life-long learning.

Labour moved into Downing Street with a vision of national renewal and collective security. But despite some worthwhile achievements, the narrative surrounding this government has more often been about its supposed failings and internal conflicts.

Declared the ‘most unpopular PM ever’ at minus 57%, how will Starmer rescue his relationship with disillusioned voters and his own fractious MPs? After standing up to Donald Trump over Greenland, has Starmer’s ‘keep calm’ diplomacy reached its limit? What will be the fallout from the by-election in Gorton and Denton, in which Andy Burnham was refused permission to stand?

And does anyone have a strategy to beat Reform?

The Guardian columnist, Gaby Hinsliff, will chair our panel of Guardian columnists including Polly Toynbee, Rafael Behr and Zoe Williams. Join us as they discuss Keir Starmer, the Labour party and the upcoming May byelections. They will also be answering your own questions.

You can join this event in-person at Conway Hall, 25 Red Lion Sq, London, WC1R 4RL, or via the livestream. Tickets are £35 to attend the event in person, or £15 to watch it online. See tickets for further details.

Following the release of his new single 'Lemonade', Louis has announced a huge 2026 world tour, which includes a night at The O2 on Sunday 3 May 2026.

Spear’s covers the world of wealth like no other media brand. Our marquee annual conferences brings to life the world of Spear's Magazine, with interviews, panel discussions and keynotes featuring leading figures from the private wealth ecosystem.

The event is the premier networking opportunity within the sector, convening the best advisers and service-providers from a range of interrelated fields, creating valuable, cross-disciplinary conversations and connections.

Tame Impala will be heading to The O2 on Thursday 7 May 2026.

What does it take to build a government fit for the digital age?

Public services across the UK are going through significant change. The government's Blueprint for Modern Digital Government has set out a clear path, consolidating GDS and CDDO into a new integrated Digital Centre under DSIT. By 2030, the UK has committed to expanding public sector computing power twentyfold, rolling out the GOV.UK App and Wallet, and embedding AI across services through initiatives like the AI Accelerator and the National Data Library. The scale of ambition is unprecedented: over £573 million in AI contracts have already been awarded in 2025, with projected savings of up to £45 billion annually through automation of routine tasks.

Legacy IT systems still underpin many critical functions. Cybersecurity threats remain high. Citizens want faster, more personalised and more inclusive services, yet digital exclusion continues across regions and communities. Questions around data governance and the ethical use of AI highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability. At the same time, councils and local authorities face growing financial pressures that make it harder to invest and innovate. Addressing these challenges calls for strong leadership, close collaboration and a new approach to how government and citizens interact through technology.

The Institute of Government & Public Policy's National GovTech Show and Exhibition 2026 will bring together senior leaders from central government, local authorities, the wider public sector and technology innovators to showcase and debate the latest advances shaping the future of the UK public sector. The programme will focus on the realities of today's cybersecurity landscape, strategies for resilience, cultural change, innovation in service delivery and the importance of collaboration in meeting emerging threats and opportunities.

Join the Institute of Government & Public Policy at the National GovTech Show and Exhibition 2026 to explore practical solutions to the sector's most pressing challenges. Themes will include AI and data-driven government, cyber resilience, procurement reform and citizen-centred service design.

RÜFÜS DU SOL will be heading to The O2 on Wednesday 13 May 2026.

⭐Join us at The Jazz Room as we celebrate two of the most influential musicians of all time: Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong. Experience their timeless music reimagined by a talented live band in an intimate setting. Get your tickets for The Jazz Room: A Frank Sinatra & Louis Armstrong Tribute in London!

Highlights 
🌟 Celebrate the legacies of music legends Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong
🎵 Enjoy their most iconic songs, like Fly Me to the Moon and What a Wonderful World, reimagined in a powerful live tribute concert
❤️ Celebrate their immeasurable impact on music, culture, and society
🍷 Hosted in a chic, intimate venue—perfect for a night of music and connection
🎁 Gift memories to someone special! Purchase a gift card for The Jazz Room here

General Info
📅 Dates and times: select your date & time directly in the ticket selector
⏳ Duration: 1 hour
📍 Location: Phoenix Arts Club
👤 Age requirement: 18+
♿ Accessibility: this venue is unfortunately not fully accessible, but will do their best to accommodate requests. For more information, please consult our FAQs below
🪑 Please note: tables are shared and seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within each zone
❓ For more information, please consult the FAQs of this experience here
✨ If you would like to book a private show or buy tickets for a large group (30+ people), click here

Programme

• Fly Me To The Moon - Frank Sinatra 

• My Way - Frank Sinatra 

• What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong 

• When You’re Smiling - Louis Armstrong 

…and many more!

Description
Step into The Jazz Room for a musical journey through the songs of Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong. From Sinatra’s effortless swing style to Armstrong’s unforgettable voice and trumpet, their music comes alive once again in a heartfelt live tribute performance. Don’t miss this celebration of two icons whose influence shaped the world of jazz and popular music. Get your tickets for The Jazz Room: A Frank Sinatra & Louis Armstrong Tribute in London!

Join fellow English UK members and leaders from across the UK ELT community for a unique opportunity to step inside the Palace of Westminster and connect directly with MPs, Lords and other key decision-makers. This critical event is your chance to raise the visibility of our sector, highlight its vital contribution to the UK, and make the case for the policy support we need to thrive.

This year, we unveiled brand-new economic impact data demonstrating the scale of ELT's value to the UK, alongside our latest position paper. The findings are clear: with just a few simple policy shifts, ELT could make an even fuller contribution to the UK, benefitting students, communities, and the national economy.

We are honoured to announce that Baroness Prashar will be our host for our 2026 Parliamentary Reception, ensuring the voice of ELT is heard at the very heart of government. We hope to see you there.

Leaders in breaking barriers and making history, the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters™ today announced that London will be a key stop on the team’s 100 Year Tour—the most legendary tour in Globetrotters history—playing at The O2 on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

This centennial season is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 Years of jaw-dropping “No Way!” moves, 100 Years of “Wow!” moments, and 100 Years of basketball thrills. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, fans will feel the history, the joy, and the fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver.

For the first time, the team will also debut their new 100 Year jerseys, honoring a century of global impact, as they face off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Fans can also expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, and an unforgettable 5th Quarter Autograph session (FREE for ALL FANS!)—making this a celebration unlike any other.

From breaking the NBA colour barrier with alums like Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton signing a pro contract as a member of the New York Knicks or courting future Hall of Famers like Wilt Chamberlain and Connie Hawkins, or Curly Neal and Meadowlark Lemon dazzling sellout crowds, to ushering women into professional basketball, to enchanting thousands around the world as the first team to globalize the game of basketball, to the current group of men and women who are stars on the court and on every screen, the Globetrotters are unparalleled in their reach, impact, awareness and in what they stand for as ‘Ambassadors of Goodwill.’

The current team of elite men and women, holders of an unprecedented 60+ Guinness World Records, including 18 set just last year, the most of any team in any sport, will bring a fresh look of gravity-defying dunks and game-changing tricks against their renowned rivals, The Washington Generals, on Tuesday 26 May 2026.

GRAMMY® Award-winning, global superstar Doja Cat has announced that she will be bringing Tour Ma Vie World Tour to The O2 on Friday 29 May 2026.

The tour supports Doja Cat’s highly anticipated fifth studio album, Vie, which was released September 26, 2025.

GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat made her first upload to Soundcloud in 2013 at just 16 years old. Having grown up in and around the LA area, she developed a knack for music by studying piano and dance as a kid and listening to the likes of Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, Nicki Minaj, Drake, and more. Signed to Kemosabe/RCA Records in 2014, she released her Purrr! EP followed that with her debut album Amala in spring 2018, but it was her August 2018 release of “MOOO!” which catapulted her into the mainstream and was met with critical acclaim.

With over 36 billion worldwide streams to date, Doja Cat’s creativity and showmanship as a performer have been praised time and time again, she has delivered unique and show-stopping performances on nearly all the major Award Show stages and music festivals throughout the world.

Doja Cat continues to redefine global pop stardom with her boundary-pushing artistry and undeniable impact on music and culture, solidifying her place as one of the most influential voices of her generation.

Join us at the Government Technology & AI Summit 2026 to explore how policy meets practice in digital government. Across the day, you will hear from senior leaders shaping the UK’s AI and data strategies, take part in focused seminars on topics such as ethical AI, local government digitalisation, and data sharing, and gain practical insights from real-world implementation.