What's New | Time & Date | The Programme | Exhibition Space | Presentations | Makers' Fair | Filmmakers' Showcase | Demonstrations | Lunch | About | FAQs
Introducing Spark Lite 2025: A Fresh Take on Warwick District's Creative Sector Symposium!
After five years of incredible success, the Spark Symposium returns in 2025 with an exciting new format tailored to fit today’s busy schedules and evolving creative needs. Mark your calendars for Friday, 14 February 2025, as Spark Lite transforms the Royal Spa Centre into a dynamic hub for innovation, collaboration, and inspiration.
A Day Brimming with Creative Inspiration
Get ready for an unforgettable day at Spark Lite! Running from 10am to 2pm, this dynamic programme is packed with energy, creativity, and opportunities to connect with the vibrant creative community of Warwick District. With fresh features designed to make every moment count, here’s what’s in store:
1. Interactive Exhibition Space
Step into the main auditorium and immerse yourself in a showcase of creativity! Explore 14 unique stalls where local innovators will present their work, projects, and initiatives. It’s your front-row seat to the pulse of Warwick District’s thriving creative industries. Explore who's exhibiting on our 'Exhibitors webpage'
2. Studio Theatre Presentations
Dive into two power-packed, hour-long sessions (10:30am–11:30am and 12:30pm–1:30pm) of quick-fire presentations. Hear from local creatives as they share 10-minute updates on their exciting projects, opportunities, and the latest ideas shaping the community. A full outline of the sessions, including speaker biographies, can be found on the 'Presentations webpage'.
3. Makers’ Fair
In partnership with Art in the Park, the outdoor market will buzz with 20 local makers and artists showcasing their handcrafted treasures. Open until 4pm, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind items and support local talent. Find out who will be there on the day by visiting the 'Makers' Fair webpage'.
4. Live Demonstrations
Feel the creative energy come alive as talented local creatives share their craft through captivating live demonstrations throughout the venue. Find out more on the 'Demonstrators webpage'.
5. Filmmakers’ Showcase
Experience the magic of local storytelling in our Filmmakers’ Showcase! Set in the relaxed atmosphere of the upper foyer, enjoy a curated selection of short films crafted by talented local filmmakers. From thought-provoking narratives to stunning visuals, this is a celebration of the creative voices shaping Warwick District’s film scene. For the full lineup, visit the 'Filmmakers’ Showcase' webpage.
6. Delegate Workspace
We know life doesn’t stop for events. That’s why we’re introducing the Delegate Workspace—a dedicated zone for catching up on emails, meeting deadlines, or tackling projects. Stay productive while soaking in the energy of Spark Lite!
[Back to top]
Book Tickets
Online booking for Spark Lite has now closed – but you can still attend on the day.
Simply visit the information point at the Royal Spa Centre during the event, where you will be required to sign-in and collect your name badge.
Sadly, the free lunch is no longer available to late bookers, but you can still access the full programme.
FREE Lunch and Refreshments
Delegates can enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and water throughout the day. A delicious FREE lunch will be served from 12pm–2pm for registered delegates.
Menu:
- Samosa chatt: Vegetable samosa topped with a chickpea curry, mint yoghurt, tamarmind sauce and salad.
- Paroka chaat and veggie paroka topped with a chickpea curry, mint yoghurt, tamarmind sauce and salad
- Masala chips: Seasoned chips topped with salad and sauces.
What’s New for 2025?
Spark Lite represents a streamlined and flexible format, inspired by feedback from past attendees who sought more local engagement and shorter, impactful events. In addition to this one-day celebration, we’re excited to announce Spark Presents - a series of year-round networking and professional development events launching in early 2025.
[Back to top]
Since its launch in 2020, Spark Symposium has brought together more than 2,000 participants from across Warwick District to transform creative ideas into actionable growth. Featuring over 100 speakers, 42 panel discussions, and 15 workshops, Spark has become a cornerstone event for Warwick District’s thriving creative sector.
Spark Lite 2025 continues this tradition with a fresh perspective, ensuring that Warwick’s creative industries remain vibrant and connected.
Event Details
- Date: Friday 14 February 2025
- Time: 10am–2pm (Makers’ Fair open until 4pm)
- Venue: The Royal Spa Centre, Warwick District
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Spark Lite:
1. Who is Spark for?
Spark is for anyone working in or interested in creative industries such as craft, film, TV, radio, photography, museums, galleries, libraries, music, performing arts, visual arts, advertising, marketing, architecture, gaming, product design, graphic design, fashion, IT software, and publishing. While the event primarily focuses on Warwick District, it’s open to anyone who wants to explore the local creative scene and contribute to its growth and celebration.
2. Why is the event taking place now?
There’s a strong sense within the creative sector that, while the area is rich in talent and creativity, there is a lack of connection between local creatives and organisations. Spark Lite aims to bridge that gap by bringing people together, celebrating local creativity, and fostering new collaborations. While Spark won’t solve every challenge, we believe it’s an important step in the right direction.
3. How is Spark Lite different from previous Spark events?
Spark Lite is a more streamlined version of the traditional Spark Symposium event. Feedback from previous attendees showed a desire for shorter, more focused experiences. People wanted more local involvement and opportunities to share updates without committing to a full-day symposium. Spark Lite is designed with those needs in mind—offering a compact and dynamic experience.
4. How can I get involved in Spark?
There are many ways to participate! You can deliver a presentation, host a stall in our exhibition space, provide a demonstration, or simply attend as a delegate. To register your interest in taking part, contact Johnathan Branson, Projects and Development Manager (Arts) at johnathan.branson@warwickdc.gov.uk, with an outline of how you would like to get involved.
5. Will the event be live-streamed?
No, live streaming isn’t part of Spark Lite this year. Feedback from our recent surveys showed that few attendees were interested in live streaming, so we’ve decided to focus on providing in-person experiences. However, we will record all sessions and make them available shortly after the event.
6. How much does it cost to attend Spark?
Spark Lite is completely free to attend, but you will need to register for a ticket in advance.
7. Are you using the Whova app again?
No. Based on feedback, we’ve decided not to use the Whova app this year. Instead, we’re going back to basics and prioritising face-to-face networking, allowing for more personal interactions and connections.
8. Do I need to book tickets for individual sessions?
The two sessions in the Studio Theatre are drop-in, so you don’t need to book a seat. However, spaces are limited to 170 people per session, so we recommend arriving early to secure your spot!
9. How accessible is the Royal Spa Centre and Spark sessions?
We’re committed to making Spark Lite accessible to as many people as possible. You can share your accessibility needs during the booking process, and you’ll find more details about the venue’s accessibility on our accessibility page.
10. Do I need to attend the entire day?
Not at all! Feel free to attend for as much or as little of the event as you like, depending on your schedule. Whether you’re popping in for some networking or staying for the full day, we’ll be happy to see you!
11. Will I get a ticket?
Based on previous events and the venue’s capacity, we expect around 250-300 people to attend, so we’re confident that you’ll be able to secure a ticket. However, please register early to ensure your place.
12. Are there any hashtags I can use for the event?
Yes! Use #WDSpark2025 on social media and mention @Warwick_DC and @spacentre.
13. How can I provide feedback about the event?
We’d love to hear your thoughts! After the event, please fill out our short online feedback form to let us know about your experience.
14. Will you be taking photographs during the event?
Yes, we’ll be photographing and filming throughout the day for promotional and evaluation purposes. You’re welcome to take your own photos and videos, but please be respectful of speakers and fellow delegates. All sessions will also be recorded and made available on the Spark YouTube channel shortly after the event.
15. How can I stay up to date with arts and culture news in Warwick District?
Sign up for the Warwick District Arts Newsletter to receive the latest updates on local arts and culture events.
Have a question that isn’t listed here?
Feel free to get in touch with us directly—we’re happy to help!
[Back to top]
Previous Spark events
Spark:Ignite 2024 is unavailble due to technical challenges
Find out more about Spark:Ignite 2023
Find out more about Spark:Ignite 2022
Find out more about Spark:Ignite 2021
