Hay Festival 2026 Unveils Star-Studded Literary Line-Up
The Hay Festival, the renowned annual celebration of literature and arts, has revealed its eclectic and impressive line-up for 2026, set to return to Wales this May. Headlining the festival are acclaimed actress Emma Thompson, activist Gisèle Pelicot, and comedian Dawn French, alongside a diverse array of literary and cultural figures.
A Festival of Conversation and Creativity
Running from 21 to 31 May, the festival will host more than 500 events across ten vibrant days. These will include engaging talks, film screenings, intimate readings, and live podcast recordings, creating a dynamic atmosphere for literary enthusiasts. Emma Thompson, celebrated for her role in Sense and Sensibility, will participate in the My Life in Books series, where she will converse with writer and podcaster Elizabeth Day about her personal library and literary influences.
Other notable participants include former Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith, who will be interviewed by journalist Steve Jones, and BBC broadcaster Michael Buerk, who will sit down with fellow journalist Julie Etchingham. Adventurer Bear Grylls will join podcaster Jamie Laing for a discussion, adding an element of exploration to the programme.
Activism and Storytelling Take Centre Stage
Activist Gisèle Pelicot will feature prominently, sharing insights on how storytelling can drive social change, following the release of her memoir A Hymn to Life: Shame Has to Change Sides. She will be joined by British-Iranian author Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and education activist Malala Yousafzai, highlighting the festival's commitment to global issues and advocacy.
Dawn French will discuss her latest novel, Enough, while comedian Tom Allen, poet Kae Tempest, and broadcaster Clare Balding will talk about their debut fiction works. Historian and Celebrity Traitors star David Olusoga will deliver the George Alagiah Lecture, examining the history and legacy of the British Empire and its impact on contemporary geopolitics.
Literary Luminaries and Screen Adaptations
The festival will also showcase established authors such as Barbara Erskine, Maggie O'Farrell, and former Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo. O'Farrell, author of Hamnet, will discuss her new novel Land, noting the fitting connection to the Welsh landscape. Morpurgo will join actor Hugh Bonneville and writer Karen Jankel to celebrate the centenary of Paddington creator Michael Bond.
Filmmaker Emerald Fennell, director of Wuthering Heights, will explore the art of adaptation, while Adolescence actor Ashley Walters will share stories from his memoir Always Winning. Writer Jack Thorne will hold a separate event on television writing, ensuring a focus on both literary and screen arts.
Political Insights and Comedic Relief
In addition to literary discussions, the festival will feature reactive conversations on current affairs, with live recordings of podcasts like Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction and Private Eye's Page 94. Politicians Nicola Sturgeon, Penny Mordaunt, and David Miliband will analyse the evolving landscape of British politics.
For lighter moments, comedians Michael McIntyre, Sara Pascoe, and Alan Davies will perform new shows, while Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins will host a live recording of their popular podcast. Spotlight days will celebrate various fiction genres, including crime, graphic novels, and a special Romantasy focus with writers Imani Erriu and Hazel McBride.
A Festival for All
Hay Festival Global CEO Julie Finch emphasised the festival's inclusive mission, stating it aims to open minds through creative inspiration and hope for a better future. Aligning with the UK Government's National Year of Reading, the festival invites everyone to engage with books and ideas in a welcoming environment.
Tickets are currently on sale for Hay Festival Membership+, patrons, and benefactors. Priority booking begins at midday on Wednesday 11 March, with general booking opening on Saturday 14 March, offering ample opportunity for attendees to secure their place at this unmissable cultural event.
