Dream a better future together with a new season of curiosity

Today, the full programme for Hay Festival Winter Weekend is announced as it celebrates its 26th anniversary. Here, the festival's CEO, Julie Finch, gives a preview on what to look forward to

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Preparations are under way for this year's Hay Winter Festival

(Picture: Billie Charity)

WE ALL remember that "back to school" feeling - trepidation and excitement as a new chapter begins.

With the days growing shorter and 2026 blossoming into view, at Hay Festival Global a season of curiosity begins, no matter your age.

So, what lessons will the next year bring us?

At noon today, we launch the programme for Hay Festival Winter Weekend 2025. Taking place from November 27-30, the programme offers a jolt of fresh thinking and bold ideas.

Gathering writers and readers to dream big in conversations, candlelit storytelling, comedy, music, and workshops, there's something for everyone to get stuck into:

Award-winning storytelling leads the programme. Slow Horses author Mick Herron joins star of the recent Apple+ TV series Jonathan Pryce on the art of adaptation; plus novelists and poets Sebastian Faulks, Oyinkan Braithwaite, Cynan Jones, Nikita Gill, Natalie Haynes and Hollie McNish launch new work.

Bookish wonders delight as historian John Mullan celebrates 250 years of Jane Austen with Austentatious star Rachel Parris; lexicographer Susie Dent shares Words for Life with BBC Wales presenter Gary Raymond; and Hereford's Five Seasons Press celebrates 50 years of Glenn Storhaug's book making.

There's seasonal joy and inspiration. Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page shares stories from her career; artist and author Charlie Mackesy shares Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm with poet Mererid Hopwood; and chef Raymond Blanc shares lessons on how to be a perfect host.