General
When is the festival?
HowTheLightGetsIn Hay 2026 is running from 22nd-25th May 2026. Festival tickets will provide access to a huge range of events, including debates, talks, music, comedy, academy and late night parties.
Where is the festival?
HowTheLightGetsIn Hay 2026 is set in a magical location on the edge of the Black Mountains, alongside the river Wye in the famed book town of Hay. The site is located just off Newport Street, HR3 5BZ. It is about a 5 minute walk from the Globe at Hay, Newport St, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford.
Can children come to the festival?
Yes, and under 12s do not need a festival ticket to gain entry to the site.
Can pets come to the festival?
No, pets are not permitted on the festival site.
Are guide dogs /ESAs allowed on site?
Please refer to our Disability Arrangements for full details on Guide Dogs & ESAs.
Can I bring a campervan onto the campsite?
Unfortunately, due to licensing reasons and to ensure safe access to our festival pitches, we cannot allow vehicles on the campsite. This includes campervans.
How can I book parking?
Parking is available to book from our extras page when you checkout.
Ticket Questions
I'm having problems buying my ticket.
If you're having any issues purchasing your ticket, please email enquiries@artandideas.org with the subject line 'Ticket Issue'. Please state the issue as well as your phone number and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
I've only received a Confirmation Code and not a ticket.
We do not issue physical tickets. All you need is your confirmation code (HA___) found in your confirmation email to collect your Festival Wristband at the Box Office. If you're not able to find your code, please email enquiries@artandideas.org or call T: +44 (0) 20 7837 3000.
How do I apply my discount?
You can apply all discounts at checkout if you open 'Click here for offers/ insider codes'. Only one discount can be used per ticket. If you have a Friends Discount, you will need to enter your code at checkout. Student and under 25 tickets can be added to your basket on our festival passes page. Please note that discounts are only valid for HowTheLightGetsIn Festival Tickets.
I can no longer attend the festival, can I have a full refund?
Our terms and conditions, details of which you can find on the INFO page, state that we cannot refund tickets nor a ticket transfer.
Can I use my ticket to watch recordings of the events after the festival is over?
All events will be released on IAI.tv at a later date. Pick up a ticket plus subscription and your first three months' access to IAI.tv is just £4.
Event Questions
How long is each event at the festival?
Debates: 1 hour including a 15 minute audience Q&A
Solo Talks / Hat Sessions: 45 minutes
Academy Talks: 2 hours total including two 45 minute sessions with a half hour break
Can I bring my own food & drink onto the Festival Site?
For health and safety reasons, external food and drink other than bottled water is not allowed on site. You must keep all food and drink on the campsite.
