The biggest event of its type in the UK, the Festival encourages children and young people from 3-18 years-old in schools, community schools and groups to celebrate diverse languages and cultures and our connections to the world. Hundreds of schools have already signed up and there is plenty of time to get involved up in events and activities to the end of March 2026.
Through FREE live in-person and online events, competitions, as well as creative projects and classroom activities (all with teaching resources), the Festival helps pupils build confidence, communication skills, curiosity and intercultural understanding – skills that matter in an increasingly interconnected world.
Hosted by International Newcastle and Newcastle City Council, with funding support from the North East Combined Authority, the Festival programme is delivered by over 50 regional, national and international partners, all contributing high quality activities to inspire, engage and enrich children and young people’s learning.
Connect with the Festival online: Website | What’s On programme | facebook | instagram | X | Newsletter or download the Festival programme and click on the links to events and activities to find out more and register. Create your own Festival programme!
- For all creative projects, competitions and classroom activities, you will receive the teaching resource packs straight away
- Online events have unlimited participation and you will be sent confirmation of registration and event links will be sent a few weeks in advance
- In-person events have limits on attendance and some are fully booked – you can find out what events still have places here.
Festival participation can support applications for the British Council International School Award, as well as Schools of Sanctuary work, embracing the languages, cultures and traditions of all pupils, celebrating multiculturalism and multilingualism.
The Festival is part funded by the North East Combined Authority
