Leeds International Festival of Ideas Returns with Exciting Line-Up from 6-10 October 2026

The Leeds International Festival of Ideas, known as LIFI, is set to return to the Leeds Playhouse from 6 to 10 October 2026, bringing with it an impressive line-up of speakers and events. This year marks the festival's sixth edition and promises an exciting programme featuring some of the UK's most well-known figures in media, entertainment, and environmental advocacy.

Festival Line-Up

The festival will host a range of prominent guests, including:

• Louis Theroux - broadcaster and documentary filmmaker
• Elizabeth Day - bestselling author and podcaster
• Chris Packham CBE - naturalist and television presenter
• Roman Kemp - radio presenter and television personality
• Vicky Pattison - TV personality and author
• Tim Minchin - musician, actor, and writer
• Dame Evelyn Glennie - renowned percussionist
• Megan McKenna - singer and TV personality

This festival aims to bring together bright minds to discuss important topics and issues that affect society today. Festival Director Martin Dickson expressed excitement about Theroux’s participation, saying, “Getting Louis Theroux to Leeds is a real moment for this festival and this city.” He noted that the festival has been building towards this moment for four years.

Event Highlights

The festival will feature ten events over the five days, each designed to spark conversation and thought. The opening event will be a fireside chat with Louis Theroux on Tuesday, 6 October, where he will reflect on his four-decade career. Theroux has covered a wide variety of topics, from controversial groups to personal stories of the misunderstood. His unique approach to storytelling has made him a household name.

Later in the week, on Wednesday, 7 October, Elizabeth Day will host a discussion titled “Failure Is An Option,” focusing on resilience and overcoming self-limiting beliefs. This conversation is expected to resonate with many as it explores the valuable lessons that can be learned from setbacks.

On Thursday, 8 October, audiences can look forward to a conversation with Dame Evelyn Glennie, who will discuss resilience and identity, particularly in relation to her experience as a profoundly deaf musician. Following this, Chris Packham will lead a panel on environmental issues, asking why they have become less prominent in political discussions.

The festival will also address modern challenges such as social media's impact on life today. On Friday, 9 October, a panel discussion titled “Is It Time To Switch Off Social Media?” will examine the effects of online platforms on mental health and society.

Important Dates

For those interested in attending, priority sign-up for tickets will close at midnight on 3 June 2026. The priority sale will start at 9am on the same day, with general sales opening on 10 June. Given the high demand expected for this year's events, early registration is highly recommended.

Conversations That Matter

The Leeds International Festival of Ideas is not just about entertainment; it aims to tackle pressing questions that define modern life. Topics such as belonging, the environment, and the complexities of parenthood will be discussed throughout the week. The festival provides a platform for dialogue about significant issues affecting communities, making it a vital event for both locals and visitors to Leeds.

As the festival approaches, anticipation is building around the wealth of knowledge and insights that will be shared. With renowned speakers and engaging discussions lined up, LIFI26 promises to be an unmissable event for anyone interested in the ideas shaping our world.