The School of Life: Festival of Ideas 2026 (General Admission)
About this Event
Join us for one of the warmest, most sociable gatherings in our calendar. The Festival of Ideas is a day devoted to community, friendship and meaningful connection. A chance to meet thoughtful individuals, share conversations that matter and enjoy the gentle pleasure of being together.
This isn’t a formal or academic occasion. It’s welcoming, playful and distinctly human: a day for laughter as well as depth, for open-hearted conversations, and for the simple comfort of being with others who are curious and kind. Guided by our faculty and Alain de Botton, the Festival invites gentle reflection, creativity and honesty, without pressure or pretence. At its heart, it is a celebration of the basic human wish to belong.
What to Expect
Across the day, you’ll explore themes of self-knowledge, emotional intelligence and connection in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. One highlight will be The School of Life Psychological Disco, a blend of joyful dancing and thoughtful reflection. Some people will dance exuberantly, others more quietly. Everyone is welcome just as they are. The session is ultimately an invitation to play, to loosen up, and to enjoy ourselves without shame or hesitation.
Throughout the day, you can also expect:
- Creative and therapeutic workshops
- Plenty of chances to make new friends and spark special connections
- Breakfast, Lunch, and an exciting choice of delicious refreshments throughout the day
- A unique gift bag filled with emotionally intelligent gifts worth £65
Session Booking Information
Following ticket purchase, delegates will receive a session selection form to pre-book their preferred sessions. As some sessions have limited capacity, places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Every delegate will attend at least one session hosted by Alain de Botton.
Join Us
Be part of a warm, curious and open-hearted community for a day of ideas, friendship and connection. Reserve your place at the Festival of Ideas.
Agenda
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Say Hello & Check-in
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Welcome Talk & Transition
🕑: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Part I: Know Yourself
Info: Sessions: Emotional Education, On Anxiety, Speed Meeting: Know Yourself and Writing as Therapy
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:45 PM
Lunch & Transition
🕑: 01:45 PM - 03:15 PM
Part II: Connection
Info: Sessions: Attachment Theory, On Loneliness, Speed Meeting: Friendship and Connection at Work: The Secret Lives of Our Colleagues
🕑: 03:15 PM - 04:00 PM
Break & Transition
🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM
Part III: Happiness and Meaning
Info: Sessions: On Failure, Speed Meeting: Small Pleasures, School of Life Disco and Drawing as Therapy
🕑: 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Drinks & Final Conversations
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 378.49
