This website uses cookies. Read more about our cookie/privacy policy.

Accept and Close

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

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.

You might also like...

Kelham Island Walks

Multiple dates

Kelham Island, S3

Explore the past and present of characterful Kelham Island and Neepsend, with walks on three themes. Discover stories of industrial Sheffield, working class community, and inspiring art.

Kid Acne

If you've spent a decent amount of time in Sheffield, chances are you'll have come across, and come to love, the work of graffiti artist-musician-printmaker Kid Acne in one form or another.

Gwenda's Garage

Wed. 15 October 2025 — Sat. 25 October 2025

Playhouse

Created by an all-lesbian team, this new musical is inspired by the true story of a garage set up by three female mechanics in 80s Sheffield. A joyful, queer call to arms, fired by feminism, friendship and a belief in the power of collective action.

Shed Stories

Thu. 6 November 2025

Drama Studio

Powerful tales and captivating movement telling the stories of people involved in and affected by Men’s Sheds.