It’s one thing to rediscover joy in LEGO through building, but it’s another to rediscover yourself through the people who build alongside you. In my last article, I shared how dragons helped reignite my connection to LEGO after a difficult stretch. But as it turns out, the real spark wasn’t just in the building—it was in the community.
Following that article, I’m still on a journey of rebuilding my relationship with the hobby I love. While before I focused on the quiet encouragement from friends, love of members of the community, and the magic of mythical creatures, this time it was a very real gathering that helped rekindle the spark. I cannot deny that once again, it was the community whose warmth, humour, and acceptance of me for who I am, that has helped me fall in love with LEGO again.
A Nervous Return
Having taken a break from LEGO shows and conventions, I was both excited and nervous as I set off to the Black Country Brick Show, which raises money for two wonderful charities—Fairy Bricks and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. There’s something special about this show. I can’t quite describe it, but the atmosphere is full of fun, love and laughter.
From the moment I arrived at the hotel, I was greeted with hugs and huge smiles from people I hadn’t seen in two years, and I could feel something shift. The smile on my face stretched wider than it had in a long time, helped along by some rare and very welcome sunshine.
Behind the Scenes
Paul Clark and Darren Hallbury, the event’s organizers, pour their hearts into every aspect of the show. They make sure that everyone involved has a brilliant time. There’s something for everyone: a variety of games, Robot Wars, a variety of displays, and a selection of traders—they really go above and beyond to create a space where everyone feels welcome. The Star Wars cosplay characters from the UK Garrison group are also a hit and provide much fun and entertainment to both visitors and AFOLs alike.
But it’s the AFOLs who are the beating heart of this event. Paul and Darren make sure we’re cared for—well-fed and watered, supported, and genuinely appreciated. You can tell they’re not just running a show. They’re creating a home for everyone who comes. It feels like the organisers truly care about the happiness of the displayers, volunteers and traders at the event.
Play Day
Like many conventions, this one included a Saturday night social, and it was here that I truly felt joy and laughter returning. In a setting where I could relax, laugh freely, and feel entirely myself, I was reminded that comfort is possible, even for those of us who often carry anxiety in our pockets. I was grateful for the environment they created where I could be comfortable and not consumed with anxiety.
And of course, no AFOL gathering is complete without an auction. Watching people bid (sometimes fiercely!) on LEGO and LEGO-adjacent items is always a treat. My personal favorite this year? A foam LEGO banana from a LEGO Play Day event, hilariously acquired by Jules Brown, who then took it on a wild banana-themed photo journey around the event—and graciously let me share some of the resulting antics.
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Additionally, no auction would be complete without a LEGO goat. The auctioneer teased a single rare goat, leading to a fierce bidding war between two dedicated fans. When one finally outbid the other to claim the goat in a tense moment, the auctioneer pulled a second goat from his pocket to the delight of everyone there, raising double the amount. It was perhaps fitting, as this event felt like the “greatest of all time.”
The Joy of Shared Absurdity
One thing I’ve noticed in the LEGO community is that anything goes. There’s something unspoken among AFOLs—a shared agreement that it’s okay to be a little weird, a little wonderful, and very passionate. At the Black Country Brick show, that spirit was on full display.
Yes, the UK Garrison brought Star Wars characters, but they were joined by a unicorn who transformed into a minion on Sunday; a Mandalorian in cosplay, and the child of one of the traders who was either Emmet or LEGO Batman at all times. No pun intended, but no one bats an eyelid at these “celebrity” encounters. In fact, it is embraced by all and seen as part of the fun and part of the encouragement in promoting the importance of play.
There was even a brick pit. And if you think it was only children diving into it… think again. Yes, that was an AFOL flinging themselves in headfirst. And once one person does it, it gives everyone else permission to do the same.
Rekindling the Flame
These moments matter. They show that in this community, you can show up as your full self, costume or not, and be met with laughter and belonging. They remind us that LEGO isn’t just about models—it’s about moments. All of these areas focus on connections and people realising that they will be accepted no matter what.
There aren’t many places or communities where people are accepted for who they are and where people can play freely, no matter their age, with goats and bananas and bricks. The LEGO community truly is a special place. If you are ever feeling like you are losing the love of the brick or that you are struggling to fit in, I would encourage you to immerse yourself in the community.
So what have I learned is needed to rekindle the love of LEGO? A well-organised show, emotional support dragons, foam bananas, and seeing a Jawa look at my MOC display. And most importantly, some wonderful people who welcomed me back in with open arms, looked out for me, and made me laugh so much that it physically hurt!
And if there’s ever a choice to involve a LEGO foam banana… well, that’s always a win.
What has helped you rekindle your love of LEGO? Let us know in the comments below!
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