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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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Celluloid Screams

Showroom

Sheffield’s horror film festival returns every October – getting you spooked just in time for Halloween. Come back closer to the time for details of Celluloid Screams 2026.

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.

Higher Fields Festival

Sat. 27 June 2026

Randall Street, S2

An outdoor grassroots music festival championing the city's DIY music spirit, new for 2026. Bringing together musicians, crews and communities from South Yorks and beyond – including Gut Level, Hatch, Delicious Clam, Kitchen Radio and Groundwork.

Powerlines

Sat. 18 July 2026

Crookes Social Club, Mulehouse Road, S10 1TD

An independent metal festival by the fans, for the fans – back for a second year. Showcasing a lineup of local homegrown artists and national acts, open to all ages and types of metalheads. Lineup to be announced.