The Hay Festival, known for its rich tradition of celebrating arts and literature, is gearing up for its 2025 edition, scheduled to take place from May 22 to June 1. This year, the festival boasts more than 600 events featuring a vibrant combination of renowned authors, musicians, and activists. Notable figures such as Welsh actor Michael Sheen, Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke, and Mary Trump, the niece of former U.S. President Donald Trump, are set to be part of this eclectic line-up.
The excitement surrounding the Hay Festival is palpable. Attending alongside Sheen and Du Beke will be accomplished musicians, including the likes of Billy Ocean and Paloma Faith, and leading authors such as Hanif Kureishi, known for his memoir Shattered, detailing his recovery after losing the function of his limbs during a trip to Rome.
“I am delighted to be returning to Hay Festival – one of my favourite places on earth – to talk about my new book, Odyssey, and join debates and discussions across the festival field,” expressed Sir Stephen Fry, the festival president. He highlighted the event as not just a gathering of prominent voices but as “an antidote to disinformation and division” where “there is space for everyone in this carnival of ideas.”
The festival aims to explore major societal themes, with core subjects for the 2025 event set to include the impacts of artificial intelligence, health and wellbeing, new political orders, and intergenerational exchanges. Julie Finch, the Hay Festival global chief executive, remarked, “Woven throughout you’ll find our core themes for 2025... Join us in a world of different ideas.”
Mary Trump will provide unique insights about her family and her uncle, shedding light on the dynamics within the Trump family, which is sure to draw significant interest. Meanwhile, Michael Sheen will take the stage to host storytelling sessions, ensuring festival-goers are engaged with narratives from various perspectives.
The event also welcomes British politicians, including Diane Abbott, former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, who will discuss their latest literary works before the audience. The festival atmosphere is expected to be lively with diverse participants from the media, literature, and entertainment sectors.
For fans of television, both Sharon Horgan and Jesse Armstrong will provide insights from their successful careers, discussing their work on popular series. The festival’s music offerings will include performances by seasoned stars, including Brian Eno, who, alongside Tim Rice, is expected to enchant the crowd with his musical talent.
The 2025 Hay Festival promises to be an illuminating experience, with its vast array of topics, speakers, and events encouraging conversations on pressing global issues, cultural expression, and innovative storytelling.
The line-up also features beloved children's authors like Jacqueline Wilson, Julia Donaldson, and Katherine Rundell, ensuring there is something for every age group. A special event will see Jim Broadbent collaborating with comic artist Dix to launch his new book, The Idris File.
Last year’s festival faced challenges, with significant names pulling out over sponsorship controversies linked to fossil fuel companies and political issues. This year, the festival team has expressed commitment to creating inclusive and thoughtful programming, ensuring it remains both relevant and engaging for all attendees.
Tickets for the 2025 Hay Festival are already on sale to members and benefactors and will be available to the general public from noon on March 14. This year’s festival is not just about artistic expression; it is framed as a necessity—reflecting the pressing issues of contemporary life and the unyielding need for dialogue and connection amid societal divisions.
Overall, the Hay Festival 2025 stands as a platform inviting everyone to share ideas, discuss literature, reflect on music's role, and converse about politics and its impact on society. Join the celebration and be part of this expansive conversation!