Hay Festival 2025: Unmissable Events for Literature Lovers
Each year, the sleepy bookish town of Hay-on-Wye bursts into life as one of the world’s most revered literary festivals brings together authors, thinkers, poets, and performers. In 2025, Hay Festival promises to be an exhilarating celebration of words, ideas, and Welsh storytelling—an intersection of global literary giants and homegrown talent, making this a true cultural spectacle.
From Michael Sheen’s captivating storytelling to Hanan Issa’s poetic exchange with Simon Armitage, the festival offers a rich tapestry of events designed to challenge, inspire, and delight. With Wales’ artistic heartbeat at its core, this year’s lineup proudly includes Tori James, the first Welsh woman to conquer Everest, as part of a compelling panel, alongside BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends recording and Paloma Faith’s introspective journey into motherhood and artistry.
But with so much to see, where does one start? Here’s our Top 10 Must-See Events—plus a few bonus recommendations for those eager to immerse themselves in the literary magic.
Top 10 Must-See Events at Hay Festival 2025
1. Michael Sheen’s Storytelling Event – A captivating session with one of Wales’ most celebrated actors.
2. BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends – Clive Anderson hosts a lively discussion featuring Welsh talent.
3. Ruth Jones & James Corden – A fascinating conversation between two of Wales' most beloved entertainment figures.
4. Paloma Faith in Conversation – Exploring themes of motherhood, identity, and artistry.
5. Tori James Panel – An inspiring discussion with the first Welsh woman to summit Everest.
6. AI & Storytelling – A deep dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping literature and creativity.
7. Hanan Issa & Simon Armitage – A poetic exchange between the National Poet of Wales and the UK Poet Laureate.
8. Grayson Perry on Art & Identity – A thought-provoking discussion on creativity and self-expression.
9. Jacqueline Wilson’s Children’s Literature Talk – A must-see for fans of storytelling and young readers.
10. Hay Festival Closing Gala – A grand finale featuring key literary voices reflecting on the festival's themes.
If You Get the Chance…
- Emerging Welsh Writers Panel – Witness the future of Welsh storytelling unfold.
- The Climate Crisis & Literature – A timely conversation exploring how writers tackle environmental themes.
- Shakespeare in Translation – A fascinating look at global interpretations of the Bard’s works.
- Literary Walking Tours – Immerse yourself in Hay’s charming bookshops and its deep literary history.
Why This Year’s Festival Matters More Than Ever
Hay Festival has always been more than a series of talks—it’s a movement, a hub of ideas, and a reflection of shifting cultural currents. In 2025, with Welsh narratives taking centre stage, the festival serves as a reminder of our rich literary heritage and our responsibility to elevate voices that deserve to be heard, from new talents to pioneering Welsh figures.
Whether you’re a devoted bibliophile, a champion of Welsh storytelling, or simply seeking inspiration in the beauty of words, this year’s Hay Festival promises to be one of the most memorable yet.
So grab a book, a notepad, and a front-row seat—because literature’s grandest stage awaits in Hay-on-Wye.
