Free workshops, performances and creative experiences at Staines Library Hub this September
From music production and filmmaking to poetry, dance and live performance. Young people across Surrey are invited to discover their creative side at this year's Surrey Youth Arts and Culture Festival.
The free festival takes place on Saturday 26 September 2026 from 11am to 3pm at Staines Library Hub. It offers a packed programme of workshops, performances and activities for children and young people.
Now in its fourth year, the festival brings together arts organisations, artists and educators from across Surrey. It showcases the many ways young people can get involved in arts and culture, develop new skills and explore creative careers.
Want a taste of what's on offer? Take a look at the highlights from last year's festival in the video below.
Hands-on workshops and activities
The festival programme includes a mix of bookable and drop-in activities. Young people can try music production with Surrey Arts or create their own arcade-style video game with Chaos Created. They can also join the National Film and Television School's Filming the Big Bang! workshop and work together to plan, film and edit a short movie.
Other activities include textile printmaking inspired by local history and DJ workshops using vinyl records. Young people can also try musical instruments with Surrey Arts teachers and join poetry workshops led by award-winning Surrey poet Woodzy.
Young people can meet arts organisations and industry professionals at the festival. They can also find out more about careers in the creative sector.
Showcasing young talent
Visitors can enjoy live performances throughout the day.
Highlights include:
- a performance by Surrey Arts' Ukrainian Guitar Group
- an inclusive dance performance by SG Troop from Stopgap Dance Company
- and a live set from Surrey singer-songwriter Fin, aged 15
Film lovers can also watch shortlisted entries from the Escalate Arts Film Festival 2026. The films have been created by talented young filmmakers aged 18 and under and showcase a range of stories, ideas and creative voices from across Surrey.
Supporting Surrey's next generation of creative talent
The festival will also showcase Escalate Arts, Surrey County Council's Arts Council England-funded programme for young people.
Delivered with Spelthorne Borough Council, Artswork and Ashford Youth Club, the programme helps young people get involved in arts and culture through projects, workshops and youth-led opportunities.
From filmmaking and music production to poetry, dance and live performance, the Surrey Youth Arts and Culture Festival gives young people the chance to try new activities, learn new skills and connect with others who share their interests.
See the full programme on the Surrey Youth Arts and Culture Festival webpage.