The Datebook datebook_winter_spring2019_digital_ARTWORK | Page 26

A Month-by-Month Guide to Events Around the Country CITY OF LONDON DINNER The Mansion House, London. This will be the 8th year of the event which attracts some of the top companies in the City of London. Many business and political leaders in London, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will be brought together through this unique occasion. In aid of Co-Operation Ireland. Tel: Winnie Orr, 028 9089 1004. E-mail: [email protected] 7 ORCHIDS FESTIVAL: COLUMBIA! Princess of Wales Conservatory, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (9th-10th March). Colombia’s landscape is as diverse as the flora and fauna that inhabit it, from tropical beaches to snow-capped mountains and everything in between. Home to more orchid species than anywhere else in the world, Colombia’s unparalleled biodiversity and vibrant culture is the inspiration for Kew’s 24th annual Orchids Festival. There will be dazzling displays inspired by Columbia’s wildlife and plant diversity, as well as carnival music, street food, coffee & crafts during half term and after-hours events. For Tickets Visit: www.kew.org. 9 THE SURREY SCHOOLS’ CONCERT St. John’s School, Leatherhead. The Children’s Trust annual Surrey Schools’ Concert brings together some of the best young choirs and musicians from schools across Surrey. Join us for an afternoon of musical splendor. Tel: Karen Phillips, 07515 992574. E-mail: [email protected] 10 ICE PLUNGE Parliament Hill Fields, Highgate, London at Noon. The Ice Plunge is the ultimate winter 10 24 THE LONDON & UK DATEBOOK challenge where you will be able to not only dip in but swim a length of the pool. It will be a very cold but invigorating experience! Cold water swimming has many health benefits and is a great way to kickstart your 2019 health goals. Our ice plunge is for anybody ready to start 2019 with a splash. In aid of Haven House Children’s Hospice. Registration: £15; Minimum Sponsorship: £100. Tel: Nathan Ramsden, 020 8498 5842. E-mail: [email protected] ORCHIDS AFTER HOURS Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 6pm (14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 27th, 28th). For six evenings only, visitors can experience a taste of Colombia after dark at Kew. As night falls, the carnival atmosphere will be in full swing with a big Latin band and tropical fusion music raising the roof of the glasshouse. Guests can craft their own floral headdress or mask, sample authentic Colombian coffee, try their hand at Columbian dancing, and tuck into classic street food. All while sipping on a delicious Colombia- inspired cocktail from the pop-up bar. Price: £16, must be bought in advance. Visit: www.kew.org 14 THE MAMMOTH QUIZ Nationwide. We’re looking for individuals, local groups and businesses across the UK to host a quiz on the 22nd February to raise vital funds for those living with cancer. The Mammoth Quiz is Macmillan’s nationwide quiz and holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest simultaneous quiz. We need you to help make the 2019 Mammoth Quiz the biggest and best yet. In aid of Macmillan Cancer Care. Tel: The Supporter Care Team, 0300 1000 200. E-mail: [email protected] 22 ART ANTIQUES CHESHIRE The Mere Golf Resort and Spa, Nr Knutsford, Cheshire (22nd-24th). Returning for the seventh year, the fair has a reputation for bestowing a warm welcome to everyone and creating a stylish layout offering visitors practical ideas on how to furnish and decorate their homes. Around 25 leading experts will present an impressive showcase. Tel: [phone]. www.merefair.com 22 INTERNATIONAL CONFEX Olympia, London (26th-27th). Year after year Confex brings together venues, destinations, suppliers and buyers to do business and delivers an event that keeps the MICE industry thriving. International Confex is the industry’s leading event as it serves the needs of organisers of both national and international events. www.international-confex.com 26 THE GROCERYAID BALL The Grosvenor House, London. The Ball will see up to 1,200 colleagues in attendance, including senior leaders from the industry. The evening will be a great opportunity to meet with colleagues and catch-up with friends, all while enjoying fabulous drink, food and entertainment. Tables are nearly sold out, so make sure to book your space. Sponsorship packages are also available. Tel: [phone]. E-mail: [email protected] 28 THE LONDON FOOTBALL AWARDS Battersea Evolution, London. Join us for the capital’s biggest celebration of football. These awards are independently judged by leaders 28