Festival of Ideas 2026

The Festival of Ideas is a programme of free, inclusive and accessible public events on a wide range of themes in and around Chester, co-created by the University of Chester and external stakeholders and partners.

School pupils taking part in a hands‑on arts and crafts workshop at a community festival, creating artwork together at a table with paint and materials, with other students and a Chester Festival of Ideas sign visible in the background.

Festival of Ideas Headline Speakers

Subject Spotlights

With a focus on applied learning and opportunities to build your professional network, our courses are relevant to the real world.

Award-winning University

Read more about how our university's commitment to excellence has been recognised with our latest awards

What about when you’re not studying?