The first events for this year's Chester Festival of Ideas have been announced.

The award-winning, free annual festival will return this summer for the third time, after proving a success with thousands of visitors enjoying its near-to-100 events held each year since its launch.

Running from 2 July, the festival created by the University of Chester, offers a programme of free and accessible public events at venues across the city.

Among the many names taking to the festival stage in 2026 are journalist, broadcaster, author and campaigner, Mariella Frostrup, former Guardian editor-at-large Professor Gary Younge. 

Adding to the line-up will be Greg Jenner, public historian, author, and broadcaster, best known for working on the award-winning BBC TV series, Horrible Histories, as its historical consultant.

Environmentalist, Dr Mya-Rose Craig will also join, and the Royal Institution will lead a trio of exciting science shows to wow children and families, offering something for everyone.

A range of research will also be presented by university academics, including discussions on finding the Battle of Brunanburh.

Organisers are inviting individuals, organisations and communities to submit their event ideas through the events form on the festival website from now until March 4. 

The call-out extends to both primary and secondary schools across the North West, North Wales and beyond, to host events, or share projects or pupils' work around the theme of 'Our Future in Our Hands'. 

It is the intention this year to support a small number of schools with their travel arrangements, where this is a barrier to being able to take part.

Katherine Wilson, director of Chester Festival of Ideas, said: "We're thrilled to announce that Chester Festival of Ideas is back this year, along with the first guests. It's a joy to start 2026 by providing a preview of the diverse schedule of events exploring and inspiring new thinking, ideas, discussion and skills. 

"If you would like to be part of these, please don't hesitate to get in touch; we'd love to see lots of submissions.

"For example, schools-led events as part of the festivals in 2024 and 2025 included an upcycling workshop, a dance event, retelling of forgotten histories, a showcase of artwork and a public talk on climate change. These were so well-received and we are really keen to inspire more schools to submit ideas for 2026."

A full programme for the festival and ticket booking for events will open in May 2026. For further information on the festival, please visit here.