Early bird tickets have been released for the HowTheLightGetsIn festival, which will return to Hay-on-Wye for the Spring Bank Holiday from 22nd to 25th May 2026. Billed as the world’s largest philosophy and music festival, the event is set to bring a dynamic weekend of groundbreaking ideas, stimulating debates, and live performances to the famous book town.
This year’s festival theme has been announced as “After the West, A New World”, which will explore what the future might look like, its potential values, and the philosophies that will guide it. The topic will be examined through a series of lively debates and talks featuring an extraordinary lineup of thinkers.
Attendees can expect over 300 events spread across 12 stages, featuring more than 180 music acts, performances, and parties. The programme also includes over 100 thought-provoking talks and debates. A 40% discount on ticket prices is available for students and individuals under the age of 25.
Previous festival alumni include renowned thinkers such as Nobel Laureate Roger Penrose, scientist Brian Cox, and former leader of the Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn. The event has also hosted performances from Brit Award-winning bands like The Last Dinner Party and Hot Chip.
HowTheLightGetsIn has been praised by The Guardian as a return to “Big Thinking” and described as a “multi-faceted gem” by Time Out magazine.
For more information or to buy tickets, head to the HowTheLightGetsIn website.
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