Taking place for two weeks each June, York Festival of Ideas presents a diverse programme of over 200 mostly free in-person and online events designed to educate, entertain and inspire.

Led by the University of York and made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, the Festival features world-class speakers, performances, exhibitions, tours, family-friendly activities, and much more. One of the largest free festivals of its kind in the UK, it promises something for all ages and interests with topics ranging from art to archaeology, history to health and politics to psychology.

York Festival of Ideas 2026 will take place from 30th May - 12th June.

Look out for the programme going live on 1 May >> https://yorkfestivalofideas.com

Previous festival events can be viewed on the York Ideas YouTube page.