This year, we’re celebrating a huge milestone—80 incredible years of Cheltenham Festivals! 

What began in 1945 with just three classical concerts at the first post-war Cheltenham Music Festival has grown into four world-renowned Festivals in Jazz, Science, Music and Literature.

But we’re more than just our Festivals. Our work continues year-round, bringing creativity into schools and communities so that young people—especially those facing barriers to culture—can experience the life-changing power of the arts.

To mark this special anniversary, we’re launching a year-long campaign to share the magic of culture with 80,000 children. With the support of our funders, businesses and Festival-goers like you, we aim to spark lifelong curiosity in literature, music and science—helping to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers.

Research shows that cultural engagement boosts health, wellbeing and even the economy. That’s why our mission is more important than ever—and we couldn’t do it without you. 

Whether you attend our Festivals, share our story, or support us in other ways, you’re helping us bring the arts to those who need them most.

As we look to the future, we invite you to be part of our journey. Join us in celebrating 80 years of Cheltenham Festivals and help us change lives through culture.