Festival of the Mind 2026

See the brightest minds from the University of Sheffield collaborate with the region’s cultural and creative industries, to help bring their research to life in exciting, entertaining and innovative ways.

Three people interact with two distinct art installations in a gallery setting. One person is peering into a wooden booth with red curtains, while two others stand nearby. To the left, there's a sculpture of a yellow flower on a wooden base, and on the right, a large screen displays an image of an elephant. The room is lit with soft blue and pink light.
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The next Festival of the Mind will take place in Autumn 2026 in venues across Sheffield city centre. 

The Festival is the University of Sheffield’s unique collaboration between our academic colleagues and experts from South Yorkshire’s cultural sector. It is a biennial celebration of our world-class research, showcasing collaborative projects produced by researchers from the University and artistic talent from the region's creative industries. Over 11 days our most exciting and cutting-edge research is shared with the public through innovative, imaginative and impactful events, performances, installations and exhibitions. 

For examples of previous projects, visit the 2024, 2022 and 2020 Festival of the Mind websites.

Applying to take part in Festival of the Mind

Applications to be part of Festival of the Mind 2026 will open following the Ideas Bazaar on 10 September 2025. Funding of up to £5,000 is available.

General enquiries and further information email: engage@sheffield.ac.uk

Events at the University

Browse upcoming public lectures, exhibitions, family events, concerts, shows and festivals across the University.

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