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Stoke CON Trent stands as the premier pop culture, gaming, and media convention in Staffordshire, bringing together fans of comic books, sci-fi cinema, television, retro gaming, and cosplay. Hosted in partnership with student community hubs and popular campus facilities like Staffordshire Students' Union, this flagship event celebrates creativity, fandom, and local creative talents in a vibrant and welcoming setting. The convention features a wide array of activities tailored to fans of all ages. Attendees can look forward to exclusive guest panels and Q&A sessions with television actors, voiceover artists, and iconic comic book creators. Visitors have the unique opportunity to meet their favorite stars, secure personalized autographs, and pose for professional photographs throughout the day. For pop culture collectors, the expansive Trader Zone serves as a bustling marketplace. Dozens of independent retailers, artists, and creators offer rare merchandise, vintage comics, customized apparel, handcrafted collectibles, tabletop gaming gear, and original artwork. Whether you are searching for a missing issue to complete your collection or looking for unique fan memorabilia, the trader floor provides endless options. Cosplay forms the beating heart of Stoke CON Trent. Throughout the day, attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite characters from movies, anime, video games, and comic books. A dedicated Cosplay Parade and Competition takes place on the main stage, giving participants the platform to showcase their craft, original designs, and character performance. Categories cater to both beginner costumers and experienced prop builders, evaluated by an expert panel of guest judges. Interactive entertainment zones keep energy high across the venue. The Retro & Modern Gaming Zone offers free-to-play console stations, competitive tournaments, and casual arcade setups. Simultaneously, creative workshops provide hands-on experience in prop making, comic illustration, and costume crafting. Designed for families, dedicated youth activity corners feature LEGO play pits, board gaming stations, and interactive treasure hunts.

Step into a world of bridal inspiration at the Plymouth Wedding Extravaganza, the city's most anticipated wedding planning event. Hosted by Amour Exhibitions Ltd (under their signature "Extravaganza" brand), this show is designed to be the ultimate one-stop-shop for couples planning their dream day in the South West. The event transforms the Plymouth Council House into a vibrant marketplace featuring over 100 of the region’s finest wedding professionals. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or looking for those final finishing touches, the exhibition offers a tactile experience that no Pinterest board can match. Attendees can marvel at stunning three-tier cakes, feel the quality of fabrics from leading bridal boutiques, and browse through the portfolios of award-winning photographers. A major highlight of the day is the professionally choreographed catwalk show, showcasing the 2026 trends in bridal gowns, groomswear, and bridesmaid attire. Beyond the fashion, the event is packed with live musical performances ranging from classical harpists to modern wedding bands, providing a live "audition" for your own reception entertainment. With exclusive "show-only" discounts, goody bags for early arrivals, and numerous competitions to win high-value prizes, the Plymouth Wedding Extravaganza is more than an exhibition—it is a celebration of love and local craft. Join us for a day of creativity and expert advice to ensure your special day is as unique as your story.

The U21 Global Leaders’ Networking Summit is an exclusive, high-impact event that brings together the strategic decision-makers of the Universitas 21 network. Held at the historic and luxurious Grand Hotel in the heart of Birmingham’s business district, this summit is the premier networking event for Vice-Chancellors, Presidents, and International Directors. The 2026 theme, "Knowledge Diplomacy in a Fragmented World," explores how universities can remain bridges for international cooperation during times of geopolitical tension. This event is designed for high-level dialogue and the formation of strategic alliances. The schedule is intentionally less formal than a research conference, prioritizing curated networking lunches, "Fireside Chats" with former heads of state, and breakout sessions focused on "The Future of International Mobility." Leaders will discuss the logistics of global student exchanges, the development of dual-degree programs between continents, and the impact of national funding policies on international research. A highlight of the 2026 summit is the "Global Impact Showcase," where leaders present the societal changes sparked by U21 collaborations—ranging from sustainability initiatives in South Africa to technological breakthroughs in Scandinavia. The evening program includes a formal reception in the hotel’s ornate ballroom, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for finalizing partnership agreements and strengthening the ties that bind the 29 member institutions. For the University of Birmingham, hosting this summit is a testament to its role as a global civic university and its commitment to fostering an interconnected world.