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Welcome to Cheltenham Festivals Changing lives through culture

Literature for Schools 2026 Tickets Now on Sale
Join us from 9–18 October for inspiring events with Michael Rosen, Katherine Rundell, Nadia Shireen, Nathanael Lessore and many more.
This year's programme offers something for every age group, with events designed to spark imaginations, nurture creativity and inspire a lifelong love of reading and writing.
Book Your PlaceWe believe in a world where everyone can explore and create culture
Our charity brings joy, sparks curiosity, connects communities and inspires change year-round through four world-class Festivals in Jazz, Science, Music and Literature and projects for education, community and talent development
What's On What's on

Pre-concert Talk: Coates
Our guest speaker John Pickard explores the evocative sound world of Eric Coates, once dubbed the ‘King of light-music’. Focusing in particular on the two works to be performed this evening, including Cinderella – which Coates himself…

Violetta Suvini and Friends
Italian-Irish violinist and rising chamber music star Violetta Suvini brings together three of the most creative, bold and thoughtful composers working today for a series of new works for strings and electronics.New York-based Jasmine…

Astatine Trio
BBC New Generation ArtistThe award-winning Astatine Trio has emerged as one of the UK’s most exciting young ensembles and opens this year’s series of recitals by current BBC New Generation Artists. From 2022–25 the trio benefited from the…

Jess Gillam Trio
An afternoon programme full of colour, energy and joy from the magnetic saxophonist Jess Gillam. Described by The Times as ‘uniquely mercurial,’ she lights up every stage with her electrifying performances and vibrant personality. She made…

Fantasia Orchestra with Jasdeep Singh Degun
Experience a unique and carefully constructed evening of hypnotic US minimalism, French Baroque delicacy and new work by a trailblazing orchestra and soloist.Composer and sitarist Jasdeep Singh Degun has been on an extraordinary run of…

Hana Chang
BBC New Generation ArtistHana Chang has emerged as a unique and gripping violinist and performer. After a spectacular rise to prominence following her winning the 2023 Young Classical Artists Trust and Concert Artists Guild International…

It's time for the Next Chapter
Since 1945, thanks to your support, we've been changing lives through culture. And now it's time for the Next Chapter. Read all about our Five Year Strategy today.
Keep up to date with Festival news See all news

The Big Read 2026
Tuesday 16 June 2026The Big Read 2026One book. One community. One Big Read.
The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival Announces Women's Prize for Fiction Winner 2026 ‘Big Read' Title
Tuesday 16 June 2026The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival has today announced Women’s Prize for Fiction winner Virginia Evans’ and The Correspondent as this year’s Big Read title, launching a celebration of reading ahead of the Festival…
Inspiring the Next Generation of Curious Minds
Friday 12 June 2026Last week our Festival Village sparked the curiosity of thousands of Festival-goers with over 100 vibrant talks, explosive demos and creative workshops during Cheltenham Science Festival 2026.


