About the Reading Festival of Culture and Collaboration

About the Festival

The festival is not just an event; it is a movement aimed at infusing the city of Reading with a new spirit of partnership and innovation across the cultural sector. By integrating the mosaic of venues and the charm of outdoor spaces, the festival creates unforgettable experiences for audiences and paves the way for new and unexpected cultural encounters. Reading's identity as a hub of parks, rivers, culture, and diversity is celebrated and showcased through this ambitious initiative.

Ethos

At its core, the festival is driven by a philosophy of exchange and collaboration—transcending place, community, sector, and discipline. Conceived as an incubator for innovation, the festival encourages a dynamic interplay of ideas and perspectives, fostering strong connections throughout Reading and cultivating an atmosphere of playfulness, experimentation, and openness.

Future Vision

Armed with secured funding for the next three years as a component of Reading's Place of Culture Great Place scheme, the festival is poised to redefine the conventional model. It's more than a platform for showcasing culture; it's a proactive force in nurturing the local economy and culture, setting the stage for new talent and cultural evolution while fostering partnerships that catalyze growth and advocacy in the arts.

To learn more about the Great Place project and its impact on Reading, festival-goers and residents are encouraged to explore how it will shape the city's cultural landscape.

Festival Company and Legal Status

Reading UK, the festival’s overseeing body, is a Community Interest Company serving as a catalyst for business growth and enhancing the experience for visitors and residents alike. This unique collaboration between the private and public sectors positions Reading UK to generate economic opportunities and tackle barriers to growth, all while promoting the city's reputation nationally and internationally as a vibrant cultural and business hub.

Get Involved

As an integral element of the festival's collaborative spirit, volunteering offers a window into the world of art and culture, as well as an opportunity to contribute to the festival's success. For those looking to make a difference and add to their professional journey, the festival also offers various employment opportunities that tap into the creativity and vibrancy of Reading's cultural scene.

Discovering Reading: A Traveler's Cultural Gem

In addition to the festival's array of cultural offerings, Reading welcomes travelers with its promising blend of hospitality and charm. The event period in September is an ideal time for visitors to experience the unique conviviality of Reading's cultural scene while enjoying the comfort of its diverse range of lodging options. Whether you're attending the festival or exploring the city's historic and cultural landmarks, Reading is a destination that combines the adventure of travel with the warmth of local culture.