Unlock the secrets of your DNA at brand new family history show

Does your family tree go back to the Norman Conquest or do you have Anglo-Saxon or Viking blood in your veins? 

Visitors to a brand new family history show at Alexandra Palace this month will be able to find out just where they come from with the help of the latest DNA genealogy tests.

Family Tree Live, which takes place at the stunning London venue on 26 and 27 April, promises two jam-packed days of DNA discoveries and family, living and military history. There will be more than 120 lectures and workshops tutored by passionate experts on offer, providing the know-how to take the first steps on your family history journey or delve deeper into your roots.

Organised by leading UK family history magazine Family Tree in partnership with the Family History Federation, this friendly show is open to all and offers the chance to find out about your ancient ancestry and distant cousins using DNA tests.

Family Tree editor Helen Tovey said: ‘Visitors will be able to get advice on which type of DNA test is best for them, save on the cost of a test kit, and perhaps even take a test at the show! DNA testing experts FamilyTreeDNA, MyHeritage and Living DNA will all be in attendance and you can learn about what steps to take next in our DNA Lecture Theatre.’

She added: ‘DNA for genealogy is really taking off right now with lots of people buying test kits for themselves or friends and family. However, it can be difficult to decipher the results and Family Tree Live is the perfect opportunity to get expert one-to-one advice about DNA testing, whether you are just starting out on your genetic journey or want to learn more about how to take your findings to the next level – and find relatives around the world.’

Talks include how to make the most out of your DNA test, the ethics of DNA testing and finding long lost family. Julia Bell, the DNA detective on ITV’s Long Lost Family Special: Born Without Trace, will provide the background to a fascinating DNA sleuthing story while DNA expert Laura House will be giving one-to-one advice sessions, along with specialists from the International Society of Genetic Genealogy and much more.

If following the family history paper trail is more your thing, there are plenty of talks on topics ranging from the essential records to use for your research, to tracing adopted children.

Show attendees will find 120 exhibitors selling all sorts of family history products and tools and sharing a wealth of genealogy expertise to help your family history flourish.

The Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives will be on hand to help you seek out solutions to family tree problems, while archive experts from the Ministry of Defence, which houses the records of those who served in the Second World War, will be explaining how to decode your service personnel’s military papers, helping you to find the stories of your family’s wartime heroes and heroines.

The Society of Genealogists will be explaining the full range of records available at the UK’s largest family history library in London, while the Family History Federation will be offering advice to help you find a family history society in a town near you.

With living history displays, shopping opportunities and much more, Family Tree Live offers a fantastic new route to your roots, all under one roof.

All-inclusive day tickets are just £12 in advance (£14 on the door), children 16 and under go free. To buy tickets and pre-book lecture seats, workshop places and one-to-one expert advice sessions, visit https://familytr.ee/live19!