This year, Lichfield Festival brought 96 world-class, live events embracing literature, theatre, comedy, dance and all genres of music to the city, boosting the visitor economy and reaffirming Lichfield as a major player in the Arts sector.

Performances in the Cathedral ranged from Tony Hadley, The Unthanks and the Black Dyke Band to Tenebrae and Sir Willard White. At the Hub at St Mary’s there were stunning performances from Joe Stilgoe, Mark Watson and Tracy Borman to name but a few, whilst Wade St Church played host to our long-running Young Artist series. Engaging in arts & culture strengthens emotional resilience, improves cognitive ability and unlocks creativity, so we are delighted that Music in Schools, part of our ASPIRE! programme, now has 250 local primary school children enjoying free, instrumental music lessons. Young Creatives included workshops, mentoring and behind-the-scenes experience for 16–25 year-olds whilst Young Critics provided a platform for aspiring writers.

We are hugely grateful to all our supporters; individual donors, Lichfield Festival Friends, corporate partners, volunteers and audience. Your invaluable support ensures Lichfield Festival continues to thrive and our mission to increase access to the arts and entertain, educate and inspire goes from strength to strength.

We look forward to working with you in 2026 to deliver another year of joy and inspiration.

Helen Wiser

Lichfield Festival Chair