Founded in 1987, Hay Festival takes place yearly in the Welsh town of Hay-on-Wye. Described as the ‘town of books,’ Hay-on-Wye is renowned for its plethora of new and second-hand independent bookshops, perfectly complemented by its annual literature festival.
This year, Hay Festival will run from 22 May to 1 June, featuring a generous and wide range of only the best ‘bookish’ centred events, industry talks, live performances, and activities well suited to all. The festival claims to “debate and create, tackling some of the biggest political, social, and environmental challenges,” in turn cementing Hay Festival as not just your typical book event, but so much more than that.
What can we expect from Hay Festival 2025?
With 600+ events taking place over 11 days, Hay Festival’s jam-packed programme is sure to provide a more than memorable experience, regardless of individual taste. Boasting many ‘big name’ guests across literature and art, such as podcaster and former political activist Alastair Campbell, novelist and previous Children’s Laureate (2005-2007) Jacqueline Wilson, author and historian Tom Holland, and BRIT Award winner Paloma Faith, Hay Festival also highlights up-and-coming creatives and does not miss a beat in doing so.
2025’s festival programme will kick off with Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Ed Davey, in a discussion of his personal story ‘Why I Care: And Why Care Matters’. Focusing on the lives of carers, the festival’s opening talk is sure to provide an eye opening and heartwarming account of this ‘often invisible’ world of carers in our communities and is not one to be missed!
Hay Festival is so much more than just a book festival. Offering charming recreational events including workshops for all ages, guided tours of Hay Castle, yoga classes, and evening performances. Hay-on-Wye is also only around the corner from impressive days out amongst nature, such as Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (also known as Brecon Beacons National Park), and many local farms and various historic sites. If one thing is for sure, it’s that you definitely won’t be left feeling underwhelmed by the festival’s glorious and exciting atmosphere.
The Indiependent’s Top Festival Tips
TIP 1: Hay Festival Online Festival Pass
For £60, Hay Festival offers a virtual ‘Festival Pass’ for those unable to attend in-person. Until 2 June, a ‘curated selection’ of this years’ most popular events will be available to watch online, bringing inspiring stories and talks to the comfort of your own home. Even better – the events will stream live – what a bonus!
TIP 2: Making the most of the festival
When looking at the programme, things can feel quite overwhelming! Give events that are new to you a chance to shine, and book events that may not seem like your usual ‘cup of tea!’ You never know, you might discover your new favourite up-and-coming author, comedy act, or artist!
TIP 3: Explore Hay-on-Wye!
Use your spare time between events wisely and enjoy the endearing town of Hay-on-Wye! Shop the town’s many book shops, visit Hay Castle, stop for a drink and a bite to eat, or try your hand at one of Hay Festival’s many recreational events, such as yoga or pizza making! There is so much to explore both on-and-off the festival site!
Take a look at Hay Festival’s handy ‘Beginner’s Guide to Hay Festival’ for more!
With many events already sold out, anticipation surrounding this year’s festival is building. Do not miss out and secure your spot today! To find out more about Hay Festival, and book tickets to festival events, please visit https://www.hayfestival.com.
Keep up to date with The Indiependent’s coverage of Hay Festival from 22 May.
Words by Mia Stapleton
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