Festival of Archaeology 2026 – Archaeology and Nature
July 2026
This weekend sees the launch of the Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology! This year’s Festival runs from Saturday 18th July to Sunday 2nd August and theme for 2026 is Archaeology and Nature.
We are looking forward to celebrating archaeology and nature with you so read on to find out how to get involved with events, competitions and more!
Festival of Archaeology events
The Festival of Archaeology comprises of hundreds of events across the UK, many in-person and some online, designed to help members of the public engage with archaeology in fun new ways. Events range from archaeological digs you can visit (and sometimes take part in!), museum activities and exhibitions, historical reenactments, guided walks, talks, workshops… and much more!
Browse the full events listing and find events near you!
Archaeology and Nature haiku competition
Write three little lines
Where nature meets history
Send us your haiku
Our Festival of Archaeology haiku competition is now open, and this year we’re asking you to write a haiku inspired by archaeology and nature. From excavations to landscapes and artefacts or visits to your favourite site – we can’t wait to read or hear your haiku!
What is a haiku? A poem of Japanese origin with seventeen syllables, in three lines of five, seven, and five.
There are two categories (under 18s and over 18s) with fantastic prizes to be won!
To enter, submit your original haiku through the Festival website by 3rd August. Open to entrants aged 8+ based in the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man. Read the full Terms and Conditions before entering.
Student and Early Careers Conference
Join us on 30th July, 3-7:30pm for this year’s free online conference hosted by the CIfA Early Careers Special Interest Group and the Council for British Archaeology. This online conference is for students and early career archaeologists to share their research and projects. It is perfect watching for anyone interested in studying or working in archaeology and heritage.
This year’s programme includes fascinating presentations on the following themes:
- Colonial narratives
- Osteoarchaeology and bioarchaeology
- Votive deposition – what we leave behind
- Coastal archaeology and climate change
Find out more and book to attend the conference!
The Past in Our Hands
Archaeology happens in muddy trenches, in labs, in archives, on building sites, in community halls, and in people’s spare time. It’s carried out by students, volunteers, specialists, and professionals who all bring something different to the work.
The Past In Our Hands is a new part of the Festival of Archaeology that brings those people and experiences together. Across the Festival fortnight, we’ll be sharing short films, blog posts, and stories from people actively involved in archaeology across the UK. We recommend these resources for any young people looking to find out more about the range of roles and activities involved in archaeology.
