The Imagine! festival takes place in Belfast every March and presents a unique way of imagining the future of this great city — and the wider world. We present high-quality showcases for the discussion of contemporary political and societal issues including new ideas on politics, culture and activism from some of the world’s leading contemporary thinkers. But it’s not all brain-melting policy discussions: there’s something for everyone in the form of exhibitions, humour, family events, music, theatre, tours, workshops and film and whatever else we can find to fire your imagination.
Outside of the main festival every March we also organise special events throughout the year — so keep checking back, or better still, join our mailing list!
tickets for all 2025 festival events are now available!
A reflection by Peter O’Neill, festival founder and director, marking the 10th anniversary of the Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas & Politics
more brains = more change
