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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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Porter Book Shop

A chalkboard out front invites “stuff fans” into this small but stacked secondhand bookshop on the independent high street of Sharrow Vale Road.

Migration Matters Festival

Fri. 19 June 2026 — Sat. 27 June 2026

An arts festival celebrating sanctuary in Sheffield, held around Refugee Week. 2026's lineup includes afrobeats artist Fuse ODG, comedian Desiree Burch, Afghan footballer Khalida Popal, Afro-Brazilian dance, a Windrush Day listening session and more.

Akeem Balogun

Writer Akeem Balogun talks to Annalisa Toccara about his short story collection about human survival, and why he co-founded independent publishing company Okapi Books.

Kelham Pride

Sat. 20 June 2026

Kelham Island

A parade and street party, celebrating and bringing together the local LGBTQ+ community and their allies. With live musicians, DJs, drag performers, comedians, family-friendly activities, fringe events, and more.