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

Off the Shelf

Photos from Off the Shelf 2022

Autumn in Sheffield is pretty much synonymous with literary delights, as Off the Shelf festival of books, words and ideas returns to the city. The festival hosts a programme packed with talks and readings from world renowned authors and poets, famous folk off the telly, and a few knowledgable locals.

Each year, the festival absorbs audiences in topics ranging from pop music to politics, fine art to feminism.

Come back soon for dates and our highlights among the writer talks, workshops and events in the 2026 programme.

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Migration Matters Festival

A celebration of culture, compassion, and the positive impact migration and refugees have in Sheffield. Held on and around Refugee Week each June – come back soon for details of Migration Matters 2026.

Sheffield Ceramics Festival

Sat. 18 April 2026 — Sun. 19 April 2026

Kelham Island Museum

Browse the wares of around 50 ceramic artists, potters and sculptors from South Yorkshire and beyond.

Destination

Sat. 12 September 2026

FORGE Warehouse, 148 Effingham Road, S4 7YS

"Forged in fire, set in steel." An all-dayer dedicated to rock and metal. Formerly Rockin the Bowl, this festival is back for 2026 under the new name: Destination.

Rhyme and Reason

For over two decades this colourful, charming shop has specialised in books for children. In recent years it’s expanded into a place where adults too can treat themselves to a new read.