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Next year, the University of Reading celebrates 100 years of innovation, community, and global impact.

To help commemorate this incredible anniversary, we are hosting an extra special edition of our annual much-loved Community Festival. Join us for the Centenary Community Festival, a two-day extravaganza which promises to be one of the highlights of our centenary year.

We are looking for artists, performers, stall-holders, volunteers, charities, community groups, researchers and activity providers to join us. Please register your interest and help us celebrate this landmark year.

  • University of Reading, Community Festival 2025. Looking through trees at the stage which is surrounded by a large crowd, sitting in the sun.
    Community Festival 2025

The Community Festival is our annual, free, family-friendly event bringing together local residents, alumni, researchers, community groups and small businesses for a day of creativity, curiosity and connection.

The event is a perfect showcase for the very best of Reading and the University. There's live music, market stalls, sporting activities, community stands, street food, and a wide range of research-inspired activities and talks.  

Two days of celebration

To mark our 100th anniversary, the Centenary Community Festival will take place over two days and in two different locations:

  • Saturday 16 May: Centenary Community Festival, Whiteknights Campus

  • Sunday 17 May: RAG Parade and Forbury Gardens festivities

Saturday 16 May

Enjoy a full day of discovery, creativity and connection across our beautiful campus.

With a vibrant programme incorporating our centenary projects, you’ll find everything from children’s activities and research showcases to heritage tours, arts commissions, interactive workshops, and outdoor performances.

Sunday 17 May

The celebrations continue in the heart of Reading, as our historic RAG Parade* returns. Join us for a joyful afternoon of live entertainment, stalls, and community fun in Forbury Gardens.

* For over 50 years, the RAG day parade was the highlight of the Raising and Giving (RAG) calendar, bringing students and the community together to raise money for charity.

Get involved and keep up to date

Register your interest as a vendor

Complete our participant application form if you are interested in running a stall, performance, workshop or activity at the Centenary Community Festival - whether you’ve taken part before or not.

Complete our participant application form

Stay updated

Join our What's On mailing list to be the first to hear about programme announcements, event schedules and behind-the-scenes updates throughout our centenary year.

Sign up to our mailing list