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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Migration Matters Festival

Migration Matters 2024, photo by Smart Banda

In 2007 Sheffield became the UK’s first City of Sanctuary – a place that welcomes asylum-seekers and refugees, that offers a hand to people in need of safety. Held around Refugee Week each June, Migration Matters Festival is a celebration of diversity and the positive impact migration and refugees have in Sheffield.

The festival launched in 2016, the year of the Brexit referendum and Syrian refugee crisis. Each year the Migration Matters programme brings communities together over fantastic, globe-spanning variety of theatre, music, dance, workshops, exhibitions, and more.

Come back soon for dates and details of Migration Matters 2026.

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Spirit of Independence Film Festival

Fri. 25 September 2026 — Sun. 27 September 2026

The Light, The Moor, S1 4PF

A celebration of fiercely independent filmmaking, showcasing raw, bold and passionate films from around the world.

99 Mary Street

Along the cobbles of Mary Street you’ll find this gallery and event space run by design studio DED Associates. DED occasionally transform part of their studio into The Viewing Room, hosting pop art exhibitions. Look out for upcoming events.

Chance To Dance

One big, free day of music and movement in four outdoor stages around the city centre. With over 30 dance groups performing and lots of chances to join in. Held each July – come back soon for details of Chance to Dance 2026.

The Unfriend

Tue. 10 February 2026 — Sat. 14 February 2026

The Library Theatre

Tudor Players return to the Library Theatre with a hilarious and satirical look at middle-class England’s disastrous instinct always to look nice. Written by Steven Moffat.