Happiness Week at University of Birmingham

This year, the University of Birmingham celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Baggs Memorial Happiness Lecture, one of the University's longest-running public lecture series. The series has welcomed an extraordinary range of speakers, including David Attenborough, Yehudi Menuhin, Benjamin Zephaniah, Bernardine Evaristo, Michael Rosen and Clive Myrie.

For 2026, Tim Harford will deliver the lecture answering the theme 'Happiness - what it is and how it may be achieved by individuals as well as nations.' 

Tim is an economist, award-winning journalist and broadcaster, best known as the Financial Times columnist behind The Undercover Economist and presenter of BBC Radio 4’s More or Less. He is known for making complex ideas about economics, statistics and human behaviour accessible to a wide audience.

This year's lecture is sold out, but there are still two more events happening this week to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the lecture.

The Search for Happiness - In conversation

Join University of Birmingham Alumnus, BBC Presenter and Journalist, Kathryn Stanczyszyn, at The Exchange on 10 November from 6.30pm for a panel discussion addressing the topic of 'What does it mean to live a happy life?'.

Tickets are free but booking in advance is essential.

Ha-ha-Happiness Night

Rounding off Happiness Week with a night of laughter, the incomparable Barbara Nice will host three West Midland comedians for a special comedy night. 

It promises to be an evening of fun and unmistakably Brummie humour. Whether you're a dedicated comedy fan or simply looking to share a laugh with friends, join us for a joyful celebration of happiness through comedy. 

Hosted on campus in the Bramall Elgar Concert Hall, you can still grab tickets and students get a discounted rate with their student ID.