Five Days in York
The Programme
A festival opening, a Viking & Roman night, Nations Night, a black-tie gala and a farewell brunch — with day meetings in a medieval Guildhall and the banner exchange inside York Minster. Provisional; final timings confirmed to registered delegates.
Wednesday
15 September 2027- 18:00 – 23:00
Welcome Night
SocialMuseum Gardens
A music-festival opening night in York's historic gardens — a headline band, a headline DJ, food trucks and a free drinks reception.
Casual
Thursday
16 September 2027- 09:00 – 16:30
Councillors Meeting
MeetingYork Guildhall
The day's business in the medieval Guildhall. Lunch and end-of-day drinks included.
Smart
- 18:00 – 23:00
Viking & Roman Themed Night
SocialMuseum Gardens
Themed marquees, a BBQ buffet, cocktail making, real Romans and Vikings, and ghost tours through the gardens.
Viking or Roman fancy dress
Friday
17 September 2027- 09:00 – 15:00
AGM
MeetingYork Guildhall
The Annual General Meeting of the international association.
Smart · chain of office
- 15:30 – 17:30
Banner Exchange
CeremonyYork Minster — Chapter House
Choir practice before the exchange, with the option to join a service after — one of the world's most beautiful Gothic cathedrals as your backdrop.
Smart
- 18:00 – 23:00
Nations Night
SocialMuseum Gardens
Every nation brings its food, drink and traditions for a night of global fellowship.
Traditional wear
Saturday
18 September 2027- 09:00 – 16:00
Regional Meetings
MeetingYork Guildhall
Regional gatherings to close out the formal programme.
Smart
- 16:15 – 18:15
Presidential Cocktail Party
SocialSky Bar (invite only)
Drinks with York's best rooftop views.
Smart
- from 19:00
Gala Dinner
GalaGreat Yorkshire Events Centre, Harrogate
A black-tie banquet — three courses, a famous headliner and a DJ. Coaches run from central York (30–45 min). Children join everyone for the gala.
Black tie
Sunday
19 September 2027- 09:00 – 12:00
Farewell Brunch
SocialMuseum Gardens
A traditional English garden tea party to say goodbye until the next time.
Casual
Make a week of it
Arrive early for a pre-tour, or fill your days with Yorkshire's best day tours.