"There is a crack in everything...that's how the light gets in" - Leonard Cohen, Anthem.
2019 marks our tenth anniversary year. In the decade since the first festival the world has become a very different place. In a world that seems more divided and uncertain than it has for a generation, we believe that now - more than ever - we need an open space where big ideas can be put forward and then challenged. The debates at HowTheLightGetsIn aren't just about the pursuit of knowledge and a joy of learning. Nor just about celebrating the impressive intellectual contributions of those involved. Instead, through its editorial programme, the IAI sets out to find new ways forward and out of the contemporary intellectual impasse.
But it's not just about the ideas. It's a place for celebration and extravagance too. There is no other place on the planet where you can meet as many of the world's leading thinkers, discover the most cutting-edge ideas, and party into the sunset. At HowTheLightGetsIn London you can join a debate about the nature of the universe with the world's top scientists, laugh until your sides hurt with the UK's best comedians, dance to the freshest musical talent, dine with our speakers in Open Platform events or indulge yourself with four course long table banquets.
HowTheLightGetsIn is not just another festival...Our programme has many names you will recognise but HowTheLightGetsIn is not about status or celebrity. We are about ideas and wonder and creating a space where everyone's imagination can flourish. Find the bands you've never heard of, discover ground-breaking ideas that have yet to make their mark, contribute yourself and your thoughts, and magic will come your way.