Bright Ideas
Led by the University, York Festival of Ideas is built on a passionate belief in the power of ideas to transform lives. For over a decade, the Festival has brought people together to educate, entertain and inspire.
Each year, world-class speakers come together, in the city and online. With dozens of free events, including talks, exhibitions, music, films, guided walks, family-friendly activities and more, the Festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Michael Morpurgo
Author, poet and playwright
“I’ve been involved for years now with the wonderful York Festival of Ideas. Right from the start I knew it was special, unique even! An extraordinary variety of events and all done with a wonderful spirit of openness. I didn’t realise to begin with that the Festival was open to all, that coming to see or hear or watch did not depend on being able to afford it.
Everyone comes because they want to be there, they are interested and ready to learn. I love that! I keep coming back because that spirit of openness endures. And because I love York and the University, and the Minster too!”
“An extraordinary variety of events and all done with a wonderful spirit of openness.”
“An extraordinary variety of events and all done with a wonderful spirit of openness.”
For this years talks, performances and exhibitions, please visit
yorkfestivalofideas.com
“York is one of my all-time favourite cities, so I was delighted to be invited back.”
“York is one of my all-time favourite cities, so I was delighted to be invited back.”
Tracy Borman
Author, historian and broadcaster
“York is one of my all-time favourite cities, so I was delighted to be invited back to the Festival of Ideas. I have taken part in the Festival before, and every single time it has been a wonderful experience. It is always brilliantly organised and promoted, and this year’s was particularly special because it involved so many University of York students as volunteers.
The audience profile was much broader than at many history events, and included a high number of students and younger people, many of whom were aspiring historians, so I hope it provided them with some inspiration for their future careers.”
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