How much does it cost?

Tickets for CongRegation™ cannot be purchased but must be earned by a submission on this years theme of ‘Society 3.0’.  Once accepted this submission is posted on the website and included in the post event eBook.  The ticket gives access to the three days, children’s workshop, music session and social events.

How does CongRegation™  work?

Saturday uses an unconference model.   Following registration attendees are spilt into 10 different virtual venues, where the chair will moderate the 3 presentations in each ‘Huddle’.  Each attendee presents their submission during one of the 4 sessions.

How can I get a ticket?

Tickets are allocated subject to the production of a 600 word minimum (no maximum) original article on the theme of “Society 3.0”.  This is submitted through the web application form for consideration.  Once approved it will be posted on the website.

The ticket covers.

• 1 day virtual event entry
• Promotion on website and eBook
• Adult workshops

Attendees book their own accommodation and travel arrangements if they wish to participate from Cong Village.

Why is CongRegation 2020 Online?

For the last 7 years CongRegation has taken place in the scenic village of Cong spread over 3 days.  Due to the uncertainty posed by Covid-19 with venues being available and the physical safety of attendees and those living in the village #cong20 will take place using Zoom with breakout rooms replacing the physical huddles.  It is hoped to return to normal in 2021 and back to Cong Village.

Can I still travel to Cong?

Some attendees still intend to participate in CongRegation by logging in from different venues in Cong Village.  Attendees look after their own accommodation and travel arrangements.  Options range from 5 star Ashford Castle to AirBnB with many offering special rates for CongRegation.

Some venues (especially those in the village) are block booked so please call for availability rather than trust online.  Places fill out very fast with many already booked for this year.  The full list is available here.

How does the online option work?

CongRegation will operate using the online meeting and video conferencing platform Zoom.  Once your submission has been accepted you will be given a link and password to access the conference.  The session will kick off with a plenary session to orientate everyone to how the sessions will operate.  Following this the group will be broken into separate breakout rooms of 10-15 people where the chair will invite three people to talk through their submission.  In-between the sessions we will have a special exercise and stretching routine to keep everyone limber.  At the end of the day we will also host a virtual poetry open mike and music/art session.

Although you do not need a zoom account to participate, having an account will give you access to advanced features.

Guiding Conventions

• No self promotion during huddles.  (Keep for break out period).
• Debate and challenge but be respectful.
• Stick to the 15 minutes presentation time.
• Keep on theme.
• Be succinct.
• Earn respect with insight.
• Encourage group discussion by all.
• Be open minded.
• Agree to disagree.
• Listen and probe.
• Keep personal issues for individual chats

How can I participate in the poetry open mic and stand up?

Attendees can share some original or favourite poems during the 45 minute poetry open mike.  Closer to the event we will share the details of the MC who will coordinate the session.  During the session the MC will unmute you and you have the stage for a maximum of 5 minutes.

We are planning a quick session with a standup comedian to share some insights on telling jokes/funny stories.  This session will take place at 6.30pm.  The stand up comedian will moderate the session and we will share their details closer to the event.  Following the poetry open mic the moderator will unmute each stand up and schedule the session.

Both sessions are high hearted and fast paced.

Sit back with your favourite tipple and enjoy.