By KLTV Newsdesk –

Poets, storytellers, ancient secrets, and sci-fi musings—Huddersfield’s literary extravaganza has it all

With just one month to go until Huddersfield Literature Festival 2025 (HuddLitFest25), the buzz is building—and now is the perfect time to plan your literary adventure and snap up discounted tickets before they’re gone.

Early Bird Discounts Ending 22 April

Many events still have early-bird tickets available, offering significant savings. But don’t delay—these discounted prices will vanish at midnight on 22 April.

Whether you’re into poetry, fiction, family fun or fascinating factual talks, there’s something to inspire everyone.

Festival highlights this year include appearances from celebrated poets Jackie Kay and Kate Fox, popular novelists Linda Green and Rachel Joyce, family favourites like Grandad Wheels and Peter Rabbit, and captivating talks on everything from Ancient Egypt to The Yorkshire Vet.

Here’s a look at some standout events not to miss…

Poetry Powerhouses: Jackie Kay and Kate Fox

📖 An Evening with Jackie Kay

Friday 9 May, 7–8pm | University of Huddersfield | £8 (£5 concession)

Beloved poet and former Scottish Makar Jackie Kay presents her highly anticipated collection, May Day. The evening will cover decades of political activism and personal experience, including a poetry performance, conversation and audience Q&A.

📖 Kate Fox – Bigger on the Inside

Tuesday 13 May, 7–8.20pm | Cellar, Lawrence Batley Theatre | £8 (£5 concession)

BBC regular and stand-up poet Kate Fox invites audiences on a whimsical, sci-fi-inspired journey through neurodivergent joy and identity. Drawing on Doctor Who, Fox celebrates the magic of difference with warmth, wit, and wonder.

Fiction with a Folk Horror Twist

📚 David Barnett & Michael Stewart

Sunday 11 May, 7–8pm | Cellar, Lawrence Batley Theatre | £7 (£5 concession)

Two acclaimed Yorkshire authors delve into eerie and atmospheric tales. David Barnett’s Scuttler’s Cove uncovers dark secrets in a Cornish seaside town, while Michael Stewart’s Black Wood Women explores a rebellious coven in 17th-century Yorkshire.

Why Are We So Fascinated by Ancient Egypt?

🎓 Talk by Dr Campbell Price

Wednesday 14 May, 6.30–7.30pm | University of Huddersfield | £6 (£5 concession)

Travel back thousands of years with Egyptologist Dr Campbell Price. Discover the myths and marvels of pyramid builders, Pharaohs, mummification, and hieroglyphs—along with a modern lens on the colonial legacy of archaeology.

Family Fun: Grandad Wheels & Friends

👨‍🦽 Grandad Wheels Storytime

Saturday 17 May, 12–1pm | Birkby Library | FREE (booking advised)

Children will love this engaging session with author Brian Abram, AKA Grandad Wheels. With lively storytelling, drawing activities and giveaways, it’s the perfect Saturday treat for young imaginations.

🐰 Meet Peter Rabbit

Don’t miss the chance to say hello to one of children’s literature’s most beloved characters in person—perfect for family photo moments and young bookworms.

Qawwali Night with Radio Sangam

🎶 A Night of Hypnotic Music

Wednesday 14 May, 7.30–10pm | The Cellar, Lawrence Batley Theatre | £8

Experience the powerful vocals and rhythmic enchantment of Qawwali music, presented by Radio Sangam in a women-only setting. Expect spiritual melodies, Bollywood favourites, and a vibrant cultural celebration.

Explore More

HuddLitFest25 promises a dynamic, diverse programme championing creativity, conversation and community.

Want to dive deeper into the poetic pulse of the festival? Read Festival Director Michelle Hodgson’s blog on Yorkshire’s rich poetry heritage and this year’s lineup.

🔗 Read the blog post
🔗 Browse the full programme and book tickets

🎟️ Don’t Miss Out!

With events selling fast and discounts ending soon, now’s the time to secure your spot at one of the North’s most exciting cultural festivals.

Let the countdown to HuddLitFest25 begin!