Social Events
Connect, Collaborate & Celebrate
While the 16th World Congress on Brain Injury offers four days of exceptional scientific programming, some of the most meaningful connections happen outside the lecture hall.
We invite you to join colleagues, researchers, clinicians, advocates, and industry partners from around the world at our social events throughout the Congress. Whether you’re reconnecting with longtime friends, meeting new collaborators, or simply taking a moment to unwind, these events provide the perfect opportunity to build relationships while experiencing the warm hospitality, culture, and coastal charm of Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Good Times & Maritime Vibes
An East Coast Welcome Reception
Experience the warmth of Atlantic Canadian hospitality while celebrating the global brain injury community.
Date: Sunday, May 23, 2027
Time: 4:50 – 6:00pm AT
Location: Ballroom Foyer
Registration: Included with Congress registration
Welcome to Halifax! Join us for an evening of hors d’oeuvres, beverages, entertainment, and good company as we kick off the 16th World Congress on Brain Injury in true East Coast style.
Reconnect with old friends, meet new colleagues and future collaborators, and enjoy a taste of the culture and spirit that makes Halifax so special. Whether this is your first World Congress or you’ve been part of the brain injury community for years, come raise a glass, enjoy the entertainment, and soak up a little Maritime spirit.
Voogt Award & Endowment Reception on the Harbour
An Evening of Celebration & Halifax Harbour Views
Celebrate this year’s Voogt Award recipient aboard the Harbour Queen.
Date: Monday, May 24, 2027
Time: 6:45 – 9:30pm AT
Location: Halifax Harbour (exact location will be emailed to guests)
Registration: Add this event when registering for the Congress.
Regular Attendee: $125 USD
Trainee Attendee: $60 USD
Step aboard the Harbour Queen for a memorable evening on the water, celebrating this year’s Voogt Award recipient against the backdrop of Halifax Harbour. Enjoy scenic views of Halifax and Dartmouth, delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres, and beer and wine as you take in the city from a different perspective.
This special gathering offers an opportunity to honor excellence in the brain injury community while enjoying a relaxed evening on the harbour. A cash bar will be available for spirits.
To be eligible for the Trainee rate, you will need to be within 5 years of your first appointment. You will be required to upload a short letter on letterhead signed by your supervisor stating your trainee status.
IBIA Early Career Social & Round Table Event
Real Conversations, New Perspectives & a Little Local Lore
Meet your people, exchange ideas, and discover Halifax’s haunted side.
Date: Tuesday, May 25, 2027
Time: 6:15pm AT
Location: Halifax Citadel National Historic Site (Soldiers’ Library)
Registration: Add this event when registering for the Congress.
Fee: $10 USD
Your career is just getting started. Come meet the people who are navigating that same journey.
Join fellow early career researchers, clinicians, and trainees from around the world for an evening that combines a little Halifax history with real conversations and new perspectives. Start with a ghost tour of the historic Halifax Citadel, where local history and a few spooky stories set the scene for an evening that’s anything but your typical networking event.
After the tour, grab a drink, meet new faces, and join informal round table discussions where you can ask questions, exchange advice, share experiences, and talk candidly about the realities of building a career in brain injury.
Whether you’re presenting your first poster, attending your first World Congress, or figuring out your next career move, this is a chance to find your people, hear different perspectives, and build connections that extend beyond the Congress.
