The Norfolk & Norwich Festival has released its full lineup for May 2026, bringing a mix of international music, contemporary circus and large-scale outdoor installations to Norwich, Norfolk. The 2026 edition marks the festival’s 202nd year since the 1824 Norfolk & Norwich Triennial, and organisers expect it will draw more than 60,000 visitors to the region.
The programme includes more than 100 events across venues such as Chapelfield Gardens, Norwich Cathedral and the Theatre Royal. The Adnams Spiegeltent will return to Chapelfield Gardens as the festival’s social hub, hosting cabaret and late-night music. The season also features a “Nordic–Norfolk” exchange, with artists from Sweden and other Nordic countries appearing alongside local Norfolk talent.
Organisers estimate the festival will contribute more than £3 million to the local economy through tourism and ticket sales. As England’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich will host a dedicated City of Literature weekend in partnership with the National Centre for Writing. The festival receives support from Arts Council England as part of its wider funding and engagement commitments.
Early‑bird tickets for members are on sale now; general public tickets go on sale on 13 February 2026 via the festival website, and the Guildhall box office will re-open in the run-up to the festival. Some community events are listed as “pay what you can” to improve affordability. A Norwich City Council spokesperson has said the festival is able to engage around 60% of the local population.
Dates: The 17‑day festival runs from 8–24 May 2026. Tickets and programme details are available on the Norfolk & Norwich Festival website.
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