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

Migration Matters Festival

Fri. 19 June 2026 — Sat. 27 June 2026

Migration Matters 2024, photo by Smart Banda

In 2007 Sheffield became the UK’s first City of Sanctuary – a place that welcomes asylum-seekers and refugees, that offers a hand to people in need of safety. Held around Refugee Week each June, Migration Matters Festival is a celebration of diversity and the positive impact migration and refugees have in Sheffield.

The festival launched in 2016, the year of the Brexit referendum and Syrian refugee crisis. Each year the Migration Matters programme brings communities together over fantastic, globe-spanning variety of theatre, music, dance, workshops, exhibitions, and more.

Migration Matters returns from 19 to 27 June 2026.

Initial announcements for Migration Matters 2026 include Ghanaian-English afrobeats artist Fuse ODG, Live at the Apollo comedy star Desiree Burch, and a symbolic drama on Palestinian resistance in The Horse of Jenin.

Full lineup to be announced soon.

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Kelham Makes: Jesmonite Coasters

Sun. 26 April 2026

Kelham Island Museum

Create your own Jesmonite coaster with artist and maker Kim Searle using a variety of geometric and recycled moulds.

Nether Edge Festival

Sat. 12 September 2026 — Sun. 20 September 2026

Nine days of vibrant arts and culture around Nether Edge. Immerse yourself in music, dance, food, drink, drama, books, art, walks, talks and more.

Peter Martin

Peter Martin is an artist and GLOAM studio holder. As well as his own video-based art practice, he is involved in a number of projects in Sheffield – each connected by the desire to do good through creativity.

Lick of Paint

A mural and street art festival. Returning for a second edition in 2027. Expect smaller creative events from the team throughout 2026 though – watch this space for details!