About
Celebrating books, words and ideas: 7 October – 3 November 2024
Off the Shelf Festival of Words is one of the largest literary festivals in the North of England, bringing the best in local, national and international literary talent to Sheffield.
Each October we bring live events in real venues with the chance to hear some brilliant speakers in person, some of the best-known and rising stars in writing, arts and media. See the film below for a taste of last year’s festival.
We also have a collection of online events from previous festivals available to watch any time on the University of Sheffield Player.
Off the Shelf Festival of Words is brought to you by the University of Sheffield
We’re delighted to bring you an exciting, extensive and our most diverse festival ever this Autumn! We’ve some of the best names in writing, arts and media as well as new rising stars. From ABBA to Artificial Intelligence, history to Hip Hop, Japanese fiction to Dutch graphic novels, miners to mudlarking plus nature, cosy crime, poetry and speed dating (a publisher!) this year’s festival gives you the chance to dive into the wonderful world of books and ideas and reflect on issues that affect all.
We look forward to seeing you!
Off the Shelf team
With thanks to our guest curators and partners who have enriched and brought a new perspective to the Festival: Kerry Hudson. Esmie Jikiem-Pearson. Andrew McMillan. Ruth McDonald. Vicky Morris. Sunjeev Sahota. Faber Academy. Headline Publishing Group. Hive South Yorkshire. Japan Foundation. Poetry Translation Centre. Sheffield Hallam University.
Tickets for all events will be available from Wednesday 4th September, 12 noon.
Booking online: Please visit offtheshelf.org.uk/events to book for all paid events and some free events that are bookable via the website
Booking by phone: Box office number 0114 249 6000
Book in person at the Crucible Box Office: The Crucible, 55 Norfolk Street, Sheffield S1 1DAPlease check sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/your-visit/booking-tickets for opening times for both phone and in person bookings.
Venue locations 2024
Visit the Off the Shelf website and click on the venue name for each event page for the address.