To celebrate 100 years of our communities, we have planned a vibrant programme of public events for the local community, academic conferences, international visits and alumni reunions. We’ll be hosting everything from festivals, lectures and performances to children’s activities and exhibitions.
We’re also preparing a range of exciting events to celebrate the conclusion of our Centenary Grant Projects, ranging from clean air for children and women’s voices in history, to a sustainability student summit, heritage tours, and new arts commissions.
Of special note will be featured collaboration events with local organisations, schools, charities and international partners, as well as alumni celebrations, student-led activism, and more.
Event highlights
Our birthday
17 March 2026
Staff, students and senior leaders will come together to celebrate the university's official hundredth birthday.
Centenary Community Festival
16 May 2026
The centenary edition of our community festival will welcome local communities and include activities for all ages, including live performances, community partnerships, and research highlights.
RAG Parade
17 May 2026
Our historic RAG (Raising and Giving) parade enjoys a revival, processing from the university through the town and culminating with a celebration at Forbury Gardens.
Outdoor Learning Garden
Coming in 2026
To mark our centenary year, we are creating an Outdoor Learning Garden that will benefit University students, local school children and neighbouring community groups, both now and as a legacy for the future.
The Garden celebrates our role as a leading climate science and environmental research institution and will provide a focal point for our outdoor learning activities.
Centenary events
For the full schedule of centenary events, visit the University Events website, or sign up to the University Events for updates.
Help fund future projects
We have launched the Centenary Fund to look beyond our first 100 years and support a future filled with promise and purpose - where great things are achieved by working together.
We’d love you to get involved. Whether you can support just one event or several, your time and contribution will play a vital role in making our centenary celebrations a success.