Every September, Segovia transforms into a hub of literature, politics, art, and global conversation. This year is extra special: the Hay Festival Segovia 2025 celebrates its 20th anniversary from September 11 to 14, bringing some of the brightest minds and most creative voices to our city.

For international students, this is more than a festival—it’s a once-in-a-year opportunity to connect with global culture right on your doorstep.

What is the Hay Festival Segovia?

The Hay Festival began in Wales in 1987 and has since expanded across the world. Segovia became one of its key stages in 2006, turning plazas, gardens, and historic buildings into open forums where writers, thinkers, and artists share ideas.

This year, the focus is clear: the future of Europe. Expect big conversations on politics, sustainability, technology, literature, and identity.

Highlights for 2025

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect in Segovia this September:

• Enrico Letta – former Italian Prime Minister and author of For a United Europe will discuss the continent’s political future.
  
• Nick Clegg – yes, the former UK Deputy Prime Minister (and now Meta exec) is coming to debate tech, democracy, and Europe’s digital future.
  
• Javier Cercas – one of Spain’s most celebrated novelists, exploring truth and fiction in times of political division.
  
• Young Voices – panels featuring new authors, journalists, and activists under 30, giving fresh perspectives on today’s challenges.
  
• Art Installations – Segovia’s iconic streets and squares will once again host outdoor exhibitions, blending history with modern creativity.

Hay Festival Segovia 2025 – Program Guide

Pre-Festival Events

Thursday, June 5, 2025

• 18:00–19:30 – Taller de autobiografía mínima with Beltrán Gambier.
  

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

• 11:00–11:50 – Taller de autobiografías with Beltrán Gambier and Pedro Zuazua.
  

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

• 19:00–19:50 – Conversation: Martin Dahms, Helena de Bertodano, Nuria García Arenas, Miquel Molina – Periodismo ficción: un día en la redacción del “Europa Tribune”.

Thursday, September 11, 2025

• 12:00 – Exposición “Lost & Found”.
  
• 12:30 – Exposición Letras por la libertad.
  
• 16:30–21:00 – Film screenings: Un paso adelante & Krompomat.
  
• 18:00–18:50 – Conversation: Alba Cardalda with Marta Fernández – Ni sumisos ni inflexibles.
  
• 19:30–20:20 – Conversation: Josep Borrell with José María Beneyto – Una geopolítica de ahora: China, Estados Unidos, Europa.
  
• 21:30–22:20 – Dance & fashion performance Oteyza (zona azul & zona amarilla) – Merina: la creación total.

Friday, September 12, 2025

• 11:00–11:20 – La Instalación – The Dancing Bench (Festival Concéntrico en Hay Festival).
  
• 11:30–12:20 – Conversation: Jona Lendering with Jan W. Bok – Noticias falsas y persuasión blanda.
  
• 12:40–13:30 – Conversation: Momtaza Mehri & Violeta Gil with Cristina Ward – Poesía del mundo.
  
• 13:35–14:25 – Conversation: Nerea Blanco Marañón, Carmen Páez, Miguel Ángel Serrano with Jorge Corrales – ¿La creatividad está en peligro? Inteligencia artificial y el futuro de la cultura.
  
• 16:00–16:50 – Conversation: Nick Clegg & Enrico Letta with Helena de Bertodano – Europa frente al espejo: democracia, IA y el futuro global.
  
• 17:10–18:00 – Conversation: Manuel Muñiz & Minouche Shafik with Anne McElvoy – Instituciones en la encrucijada.
  
• 17:10–18:00 – Conversation: Inmaculada Ballesteros, Ángel Cárdenas, Paul García de Oteyza & Caterina Pañeda with Javier Gila – Poder blanda para avanzar.
  
• 18:15–19:05 – Conversation: Fernanda Canales with David Goodman – El poder del espacio: imaginar futuros.
  
• 18:15–19:05 – Conversation: Radka Denemarková with Monika Zugstová – Pasado que mancha.
  
• 18:20–19:10 – Conversation: Secundino Hernández with Sema D’Acosta – Pintar es arriesgar.

Saturday, September 13, 2025

(Program events for this date will include literature, philosophy, arts, politics, and student-focused activities – official listings still expanding. We will update once more details are published.)

Sunday, September 14, 2025

(Final day with closing events, exhibitions, and cultural activities – awaiting full published schedule for exact times and speakers.)

Why is it perfect for you…

1. Affordable Access – Many events are free or student-priced, making world-class culture accessible.
   
2. Networking Opportunities – Meet fellow students, international visitors, and even speakers.
   
3. Boost Your Studies – Whether you’re into literature, politics, art, or sociology, the Hay Festival makes lectures come alive.
   
4. Cultural Immersion – Engage with Spanish and international ideas while exploring Segovia’s plazas, gardens, and palaces.

Practical tips for attending

• Book early: Tickets for big-name speakers sell out fast.
  
• Mix it up: Don’t just attend talks in your study area—explore music, art, and architecture sessions too.
  
• Explore the venues: Many events take place in stunning spaces like the Romanesque churches, gardens, or even the city walls.
  
• Stay connected: Follow the official site and social channels for last-minute program updates.

A celebration of 20 years

This year’s edition doesn’t just look forward—it also reflects on the 20 years of conversations in Segovia. Past guests have included Nobel laureates, leading artists, and politicians. Now it’s your chance to be part of the story.

Final word for students

September in Segovia isn’t just about starting classes—it’s about stepping into global conversations. The Hay Festival Segovia 2025 is your invitation to do just that.

Whether you’re here for study abroad or your full degree, this festival is a reminder that Segovia is more than a beautiful city—it’s a meeting point for ideas that shape the world.

👉 Ready to dive in? Mark September 11–14 on your calendar and join the 20th anniversary of the Hay Festival Segovia. Culture, conversations, and inspiration are waiting for you.