University of Reading hits 100 with global celebrations

Reading, 17th March 2026 – Today, the University of Reading celebrates its 100th birthday, with events taking place across its international campuses and a landmark evening at the historic Great Hall on London Road. 

One hundred years ago to the day, the University of Reading received its Royal Charter from George V, marking its official creation as a university and the beginning of a century of creating possibilities for tomorrow. Today, as the University turns 100, staff and students on campuses in Reading, Malaysia, China and South Africa, and graduates and supporters across the world, will gather to celebrate a major birthday in the time-honoured way: with cake. 

This evening, the University will host a special centenary event for key University supporters, bringing together the people who have shaped, helped and championed Reading across its first century. The gathering will include the premiere of the University's centenary film, along with a programme of performances and speeches, which will capture the spirit of the University and set its ambitions for the century ahead.  

Throughout March, Reading graduates are hosting birthday celebrations in locations across the globe, reflecting the depth and reach of a growing community that spans more than 150 countries. 

Professor Robert van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, said: "This is a proud and joyful day for everyone who is part of the University of Reading community. Whether you have studied here, worked here, or have supported us over the years, our centenary is about celebrating you and the links that Reading has helped you to create.  

“For a century, we have been building legacies, growing futures and nurturing connections, and today we look ahead with the same sense of ambition and purpose that has always defined us." 

Today marks the keystone of a year-long programme of events taking place across the UK and around the world, designed to bring together University colleagues, students, alumni, local communities and international partners. Highlights include: 

Community Festival, May 2026 — On Saturday 16 May, the University will open its doors to the local community, celebrating the University's deep roots in the region. The festival will bring the University’s most exciting research and discoveries out from its workshops and labs and into the public, while showcasing many of the projects created to celebrate the centenary, from community art to sustainability initiatives. The following day (17 May) will also see the revival of the University’s historic RAG parade, including a charity procession from the University campus to Forbury Gardens. 

UoR x RPO Create New Music Together – an immersive musical workshop, conducted in collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, will result in the creation of a new musical piece, culminating in a performance at the Hexagon on Saturday 9th May. 

Sparks, Parks, Halls and Balls — Inspired by in-depth interviews with students, staff, alumni and members of the local community, alongside discoveries from the University archives, this immersive live drama performance, performed on 23 and 24 May, brings a century of study in Reading vividly to life. 

Outdoor Learning Garden – Later in 2026, the University will unveil a new outdoor education space, designed to celebrate its role as a leading centre for study of climate, sustainability and the environment, and provide a focal point for outdoor learning activities for students, school children and neighbouring community groups, now and as a legacy for the future. 

Heritage walks — A series of free guided walks will invite members of the local community to discover the stories behind the University's rich history and beautiful campuses throughout 2026. The walks will highlight historic campus buildings, beautiful green spaces, wartime history and generations of voices of the people that have studied, worked, and lived at the University, helping to inspire the institution to this day. 

A hundred years of world-leading research, transformative education and deep-rooted partnerships have laid strong foundations for the century ahead. To find out more about the University of Reading and its centenary year, visit reading.ac.uk/centenary.