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

Migration Matters Festival

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.

Come back soon for dates and details of Migration Matters 2026.

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John Hoyland

Introducing John Hoyland (1934-2011), the Sheffield-born abstract painter who took on the international art world.

Kisha Bradley

At social enterprise Bright Box Makerspace, Kisha creates playful spaces to explore tech, engineering and arts. Getting kids curious and confident to try new things.

The Ladies Football Club

Sat. 28 February 2026 — Sat. 28 March 2026

Crucible Theatre

When World War 1 forces men onto the frontline, the women of Sheffield take their place in the factories – and on the football pitch. They play to crowds of over 50,000, unaware that something will soon blow the whistle on their beautiful game.

Sheffield Adventure Film Festival

Fri. 20 March 2026 — Sun. 22 March 2026

Showroom

Enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of your seat. Our highlights for ShAFF 2026 include films on an Afghan ski community and a pioneering rock climbing couple. Plus a kit-repurposing workshop, breathwork, abseiling and a city-centre sauna.