100 Days to Go: Why Hay Festival Belongs on Your Calendar
There’s something exciting about the moment the countdown begins. With 100 days to go until Hay Festival, now is the perfect time to start planning a trip that’s equal parts literary, leisurely, and quietly magical.
If you’ve never been, Hay-on-Wye during festival time feels like a place slightly out of time: thinkers and dreamers spilling out of tents, bookshops buzzing, the River Wye glinting in the spring sunshine, and conversations that somehow stretch from poetry to politics to what you’re eating for dinner. Here’s why you should go, what to see while you’re there, and how to make the most of it.
Why Visit Hay Festival?
Hay Festival isn’t just a literary festival - it’s a cultural pilgrimage. Writers, journalists, activists, comedians, scientists, artists, and curious minds from all over the world descend on this tiny Welsh border town, creating an atmosphere that’s both intellectually charged and wonderfully relaxed.
You might start your morning with a world-class author, spend the afternoon debating big ideas over coffee, and end the evening laughing through comedy or being moved by poetry. It’s serious thinking without the stuffiness - curious, generous, and often great fun.
And you don’t have to be a “big reader” to love it. If you enjoy ideas, stories, music and people-watching, Hay delivers!
What to See at the Festival
The Talks
The programme is packed, from household names to emerging voices. Mix the big hitters with sessions you know nothing about - some of the best events are the unexpected ones. Early bird ticket are now on sale, with the full programme being released on 9th March - mark it in your dairy!
The Bookshop & Signings
Yes, you’ll buy more books than planned. That’s part of the joy. Many speakers sign copies after events, making them perfect souvenirs.
The Festival Site Atmosphere
Even if you don’t have any tickets, linger on site. Sit on the grass, grab a drink and listen to conversations unfold around you - Hay is as much about what happens between events as on the stage.
Evenings at Hay
Comedy, music, and late-night talks often bring a looser, livelier energy. If you can, stay, some of the most memorable moments happen after dark. And always make those restaurant reservations well in advance.
Make Time to Explore Hay-on-Wye
One of the biggest mistakes people make is staying on the festival site all day. Make time to leave and explore the town - it’s absolutely worth it.
Independent Shops & Bookstores
Hay’s reputation as the “Town of Books” is well-earned. Wander the bookshops and duck in and out of the independent shops throughout town. They’re full of character and run by people who live here all year round.
Hay Castle
Recently restored, the castle sits at the heart of the town and is well worth a visit for its exhibitions, views, and sense of history.
The River Wye
A riverside walk (or even a paddle if the weather’s kind) is the perfect antidote to a busy festival schedule.
Eat Local (It Really Matters)
During festival week, Hay gets busy - but many of the local restaurants and cafés operate all year round and depend on your trade. Supporting them helps keep the town thriving long after the tents come down.
A few top tips from locals:
You’ll still find pop-up food onsite, but stepping into town for a meal is part of the full Hay experience.
Practical Tips to Know Before You Go
PLAESE Use Designated CarParking
Hay is small, and parking is carefully managed during festival time. Use the designated festival car parks - it keeps traffic flowing and the town accessible for everyone.
Bring Cash
Very important: cash machines are limited in Hay, and they can run dry during busy periods. Bring some with you to avoid frustration.
Wellies Are Always a Good Shout
Late Spring in Wales means sunshine…but sometimes rain and mud, after all the festival is in a field! Even if the forecast looks good, coats and wellies (or at least sturdy footwear) can save the day.
Plan, But Don’t Over plan
Choose a few must-see sessions, then leave gaps. Some of the best Hay moments are unplanned.
Talk to People
Queues are friendly, conversations spark easily, and recommendations travel fast. Hay is unusually sociable, lean into it!
TheCountdown Is On
In 100 days, Hay-on-Wye will once again become a meeting place for stories, ideas, and the people who love them. Whether you’re coming for a day or staying the week, Hay Festival has a way of leaving you inspired, slightly tired, and already planning your return.
Start counting down. 📚🌿