Hay Festival 2026 Line-Up Includes Emma Thompson and Malala Yousafzai

In Brief

Hay Festival 2026 will feature over 500 events with speakers including Emma Thompson and Malala Yousafzai.

Key Facts

• Hay Festival 2026 will run from 21 to 31 May in Hay-on-Wye, Powys
• The festival programme includes more than 500 events
• Headline speakers include Emma Thompson, Malala Yousafzai, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, and Gisèle Pelicot
• The festival is a prominent UK literary event
• The full programme was recently announced by organisers

What Happened

Organisers of the Hay Festival have announced the full line-up for the 2026 event, scheduled from 21 to 31 May in Hay-on-Wye, Powys. The festival will feature over 500 events with notable speakers such as Emma Thompson, Malala Yousafzai, Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, and Gisèle Pelicot.

Why It Matters

The Hay Festival is a significant cultural event in the UK, attracting prominent authors and figures. Its diverse programme highlights contemporary literary and social issues, drawing wide public and media attention.

What's Next

Attendees and the public can expect a detailed schedule release and ticket sales ahead of the festival. Further announcements about additional participants and event specifics may follow.