Whether you want to catch up with some old friends, or get to know new faces, there will be plenty of occasions to socialise and network with the right people on both conference nights.

This year we invite you to the opening night social taking place next door to The Sage Gateshead, at BALTIC – Centre for Contemporary Art.

BALTIC is the biggest gallery of its kind in the world. Housed in a landmark industrial building on the south bank of the River Tyne, it presents a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art across four gallery spaces.

Browse around the centre's art exhibitions, visit its shops and bars or simply chill out on the spectacular terrace area by the river. Get your welcome drink, something to eat and enjoy a night of live music by The Sage Gateshead's steel pan youth ensemble; Volcano, and a jazz quintet. Unmissable.

Want to know what will be on in July? Then visit Exhibitions: future.

Wednesday night is the new Thursday night, which was the new Friday night … in other words, put on your dancing shoes and join us from 7pm – 1am on a jolly at one of the classiest bars in Newcastle: Florita’s (formerly known as APARTMENT).

Let us welcome you with a drink and delicious finger buffet, and then let yourself go and enjoy your last night out of office. There will be pay-bars available throughout the evening, including a cocktail bar; a funky, soulful set from a fab DJ; and live performances from a percussionist and a saxophonist. Isn’t this what conferences are all about?