FREEDOM FESTIVAL
The definitive guide to Hull’s award-winning international arts festival. World-class acrobatics, outdoor street theatre, thought-provoking installations, and live music across the city.
Born out of the 2007 bicentenary commemorations of the abolition of the slave trade championed by Hull’s most famous son, Sir William Wilberforce, Freedom Festival has grown into one of the UK’s most respected international festivals of outdoor arts, circus, and street theatre.
Key Performance Hubs
🏛️ Queen Victoria Square
The focal point for high-flying aerial acrobatics, kinetic sculptures, and dazzling night-time spectacles framed by Hull City Hall and Ferens Art Gallery.
⛪ Trinity Square & Hull Minster
Immersive contemporary dance, interactive audio installations inside the ancient Minster, and community poetry circles.
🎪 Zebedee's Yard
A sheltered open-air courtyard in Old Town featuring intimate circus tents, physical comedy, and boundary-pushing performance art.
🌊 Hull Marina Promenade
Waterfront sound installations, mobile brass bands, visual street artists, and artisan food stalls running all the way to Victoria Pier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Freedom Festival Hull?+
Freedom Festival is Hull's premier international arts festival, founded to celebrate the legacy of anti-slavery campaigner Sir William Wilberforce. It showcases world-class street theatre, acrobatic spectacles, outdoor dance, visual arts, and live music.
When is Freedom Festival Hull held?+
Freedom Festival takes place over 5 days in late August and early September across Hull city centre, Old Town, and the Marina waterfront.
Is Freedom Festival Hull free to attend?+
Yes! Over 90% of Freedom Festival performances, outdoor installations, and street theatre shows are completely free of charge. Only a select number of intimate tent and indoor performances require advance booking.
Where do Freedom Festival performances take place?+
Key festival zones include Queen Victoria Square, Trinity Square & Hull Minster, Zebedee's Yard, Museums Quarter gardens, and the Hull Marina promenade.
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