Tickets for u3a Festival 26 are now live
u3a Festival 26 is the biggest event in the u3a calendar, bringing members from across the UK together for three days of fun, learning and skill sharing.
Between 1-3 July 2026, the University of York will be taken over by u3a members socialising and learning together.
u3a Festival 26 is being led by a team of members, crafting a programme that covers sport tournaments, artistic workshops, musical performances and talks on a wide range of subjects. It will be everything members do at u3a on a daily basis - on a larger scale. We talked to a few of the members organising the Festival about what attendees can expect.
Barnsley u3a's Choir, performing at u3a Festival 24
A broad range of musical talent
Music lovers will be well served at the Festival with opportunities to take part in instrumental workshops. In addition, musical groups from across u3a will be showcasing their skills in live performances.
Prudhoe u3a member Robert is helping to pull together the music programme. He says, "There will be some marvellous music. We already have contributions from piano, saxophone, recorders, ukeleles and steel drums. The music ranges from Bach to Beatles - and its all live!"
Performing arts
One of the great things about the festival is the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and try something a little bit different. Gloucester u3a member Sarah is coordinating a range of performing arts activities. She says "The Festival is shaping up to include an exciting variety of performing arts workshops - from laughter yoga to handbell ringing, via a jazz workshop and all kinds of dance that you can join in. "
Sports for every member
The sports programme is being organised by Rippon u3a member Glenys, who also coordinated the sports programme at u3a Festival 24. Reflecting the wide range of sporting activity within u3a, there will be sports tournaments for the competitive types and fitness workshops for people who want to move their body in a gentler way.
Croquet was one of the popular sports at u3a Festival 24 and will be returning at this year's Festival
Glenys says, "u3a sports and activity groups focus on enjoyment, inclusivity, and active, lifelong participation rather than competition or high-level performance. The range of sports activities at the Festival showcase that later life is a time of possibility, growth, and physical engagement."
Opportunities to volunteer
As with everything in u3a, the success of the Festival relies on the talents of our members. If you think you could lead an activity, perform at the Festival or contribute in some other way, please get in touch by emailing festival@u3a.org.uk.