Huddersfield Literature Festival (HLF) is an award-winning 10-day Festival held annually in the spring. A blended Festival of 50+ digital, outdoor and venue-based events held online and at accessible spaces in Huddersfield, Hudd Lit Fest champions accessibility, diversity and under-represented groups.
Showcasing emerging writers and artists alongside major names, the Festival offers a diverse programme of author talks, workshops, discussion topics, performance poetry, multi-arts performances, wellbeing projects, events for young people and family friendly events.
Our Aims & Objectives, first set out in 2013, were recalibrated by the Steering Committee in 2023 to the following:
It’s 2028 and we are proud that…
- HLF represents the diverse population of Huddersfield in both performer and visitor demographics with accessible events supported by diverse partners and community groups.
- HLF is a multi-award-winning Festival with an excellent reputation for good practice that attracts high-profile authors and performers from across the UK whilst spotlighting our region’s local talent.
- HLF is a sustainable and environmentally responsible Festival that brings important ideas and issues to new audiences through engagement with literature in interesting and accessible ways.
Innovative special projects and commissions, often inspired by local community partnerships, are designed to promote community cohesion, improve wellbeing and proactively engage with under-represented artists, performers and audiences.
With a digital offer and many free and low-cost events, including some with live subtitling, and Access Guides to key venues, Hudd Lit Fest promotes accessibility with a view to offering more opportunities for a wider range of people to enjoy arts and culture.
Established in 2006, Hudd Lit Fest is a major fixture on the town’s cultural calendar with an audience approval rating of between 95%-100%. A not-for-profit limited company, the Festival is supported by grants, ticket sales and sponsorship.
Awards
Awards & nominations:
Creative Champions, South Pennines Park Awards – WINNER 2023
Accessible & Inclusive Tourism, Yorkshire Post Tourism Awards – WINNER 2022
Kirklees Diversity, Equality and Innovation Awards – finalist 2022
Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards – finalist 2016, 2017 & 2020
Examiner Community Award for the Arts – WINNER 2017
