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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Rachel McGrath

Hay Festival announces inspiring line-up for 2026 event

Hay Festival Dawn French Gisele Pelicot
  • The annual Hay Festival will take place in Wales from 21 to 31 May, featuring over 500 events celebrating literature and arts.
  • Headliners include Emma Thompson, Dawn French, and activist Gisèle Pelicot, alongside authors such as Maggie O’Farrell and Emerald Fennell.
  • The festival will host My Life in Books conversations with figures like Prue Leith and Bear Grylls, and lectures by historian David Olusoga and professor Serhii Plokhy.
  • Politicians Nicola Sturgeon, Penny Mordaunt, and David Miliband are set to discuss British politics, while comedians Michael McIntyre and Sara Pascoe will perform new shows.
  • Tickets are currently available for Hay Festival members, with priority booking commencing on 11 March and general booking opening on 14 March.

IN FULL

Emma Thompson, Gisèle Pelicot and Dawn French among Hay Festival 2026 headliners

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