2025-26 Semester 1

Upcoming Events 

Check below to find details about the latest 'one-off' and infrequent events happening in the Global Study Lounge, on campus, and in the wider community on, for, and around, global, international, cultural and intercultural themes as well as different communities, groups, and voices.

For an overview of the events and activities taking place in, and associated with, the Global Study Lounge, see 'Activities and Events' and the 'Event Notices' landing page. 

Events are listed below in reverse chronological order, with the most recently announced event(s) appearing at the top. NB: You may need to scroll down for the current date

 

Semester One 2025/26

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Week 5

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Four Gone Confusion at Readifolk

Four Gone Confusion are a four-piece band, based in East Sussex, who play and sing a range of very eclectic material from traditional folk songs, to classical guitar duets and more contemporary music. They play a variety of instruments in various combinations: psaltery,  flute,  kalimba, bouzouki and guitars. Four Gone Confusion sing both accompanied and acapella in various harmony combinations.

Date: Sunday 2nd November 2025

Time: From 20:00

Venue: The Community Hall, Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street, Reading, RG1 4RJ

Price: £10.00

 

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Dreading Poetry Slam

Dreading Slam is a friendly open mic poetry competition. Poets compete against each other by connecting with the audience and impressing the randomly selected judges with their work.

You're welcome to come along to watch or to participate! If you wish to take part, please bring 3 poems of your own work (up to a maximum of 3 minutes in length) and make yourself known to the organisers.

Dreading Slam welcomes poets of all standards along with those who wish to join the audience for an evening of live poetry.

The events also includes fun 'Quick Fire' and 'Reading' events on the night. More information on the website.

Date: Sunday 2nd November 2025

Time: 19:30 - 22:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE

 

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FREE Workshop Weekend! SUNDAY

A weekend of FREE workshops to launch the Friends of the Rising Sun Arts Centre Scheme. We are launching our Friends of The Rising Sun Scheme on the 1st and 2nd of November. We are providing a weekend of free workshops and opening up the café for tea and cakes and vegan, Iranian food.

Do come and take part in one of the free workshops – see schedule below – and learn more about the Friends of the Rising Sun Scheme.

  • 11.00: Café Open
  • 12.00: How to Make your own Watercolour Paints : An interactive demo of stages and processes, With Immy Smith.
  • 12.00: Book making and Origami Small Handmade Book Making with Helen Westhrop. Using different types of papers and letter stamps, create your own little book. Plus: Easy origami drop-in session, learn how to fold birds and butterflies.
  • 14.00: Chinese Calligraphy – with Yunxia Wu
  • 16.00: Gell Printing with Suzanne Carson: Create beautiful, detailed prints using a variety of foliage and paper masks.
  • 16.00: Balboa Dance – learn the basics of this swing dance. Classes continue at the centre on Monday evenings. Next beginners class starts beginning of December.
  • 18.00: Poetry Workshop.  “Is Poetry Fun?” A workshop exploring perceptions about poetry from early years to adulthood. Are you a poet but don’t know it? Try bringing out your inner poet by writing a short poem on Dreading Slam’s  November Quick Fire theme of Memories.

Date: Sunday 2nd November 2025

Time: 11:00 - 19:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE

 

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Concerts in Caversham - Autumn Festival - Concert Four

As one of the leading British saxophone quartets among the new generation of artists, the Ferio Saxophone Quartet consistently receives a highly enthusiastic reception from audiences and critics alike.

*Autumn Festival has  four concerts - bundle offer and single ticket price available.

Date: Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue: St Andrew's Church, Albert Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7PL

Price: £18.00 - £26.00 per concert

 

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Pastels and Prosecco

Not a step by step painting workshop but a chance to learn the skill of drawing. How to look and coordinate your hand with your eye, how to compose and create form, how to use the medium you are working with and how to express yourself in your drawing.

Tuition provided, we will be working in pastels and interpreting still life. 2 hour session where the emphasis is on learning the practice of drawing. Drawing can be a life changing experience. Booking required.

Date: Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 19:00 - 22:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: £12.00

 

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ITM and UKLS presents Fundraiser for Graft

5 bands, 3 companies, 1 community together for one cause – join UK Live Sound for an exceptional night of live music in support of GRAFT Thames Valley, a Reading-based charity dedicated to helping people with barriers to employment build brighter futures.

With five local and established bands taking the stage, this fundraiser concert promises community spirit at its best. Backed by three local companies and powered by the generosity of our town, every ticket and donation goes directly toward supporting GRAFT’s mission of creating opportunities and changing lives across the Thames Valley.

Date: Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 18:00 - 00:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: From £25.00

 

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FREE Workshop Weekend! SATURDAY

A weekend of FREE workshops to launch the Friends of the Rising Sun Arts Centre Scheme. We are launching our Friends of The Rising Sun Scheme on the 1st and 2nd of November. We are providing a weekend of free workshops and opening up the café for tea and cakes and vegan, Iranian food.

Do come and take part in one of the free workshops – see schedule below – and learn more about the Friends of the Rising Sun Scheme.

  • 11.00: Café Open
  • 11.30: Life Drawing – till 2.00 pm, Draw from a model with instruction.
  • 12.00: Dice Doodles with Immy Smith. Dice become the decision makers in creating fantastic doodles.
  • 14.00: Children’s Ukulele Workshop (Aimed at KS 2 and 3). Ukuleles provided.
  • 14.30: Paper Mâché Workshop With Iranian Artist Andre Agassi. Learn how to create sculptural forms with Paper Mâché
  • 16.00: Salsa Dance. Learn to salsa – classes continue at the Rising Sun on Thursdays.

Date: Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 11:00 - 17:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE

 

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Reading Farmers' Market

Come and browse local food, drink and more and buy directly from the producers at our local farmers' market, named Best Food Market in the Great British Market Awards 2020.

You can expect to find fresh fruit, veg and mushrooms, high welfare meat, fish and eggs, cheese, honey, baked goods, doughnuts, fudge, cider, beer and natural skincare.

Follow the market on Facebook or sign up for the newsletter for details of the line-up of traders each time.

Date: Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 08:15 – 12:00

Venue: Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street, Reading, RG1 7HU

Price: FREE

 

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Fright Union

This Halloween, the Union transforms into your ultimate haunted playground. Step inside Fright Union for a night of spine-tingling beats, eerie energy, and non-stop student mayhem.

Expect chilling décor, monster drink deals, and a dance floor crawling with ghosts, ghouls, and creatures of the night.

Whether you’re rocking your scariest costume or keeping it classic, this is the one night of the year where the Union becomes unrecognisable. From blood-curdling bangers to wicked throwbacks, our DJs will keep you moving until the witching hour.

The best dressed student will WIN £100 NETFLIX VOUCHER, so you can watch all the scary movies you want!

Date: Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 22:00 - 02:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: From £5.50

 

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Halloween Horrors at Reading Biscuit Factory: Film Screening - Halloween Extended Cut

Fifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween night 1963, Michael Myers escapes from a mental hospital and returns to the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois, to kill again. A special extended version of the slasher classic screening on Halloween night.

Date: Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 20:00

Venue: Reading Biscuit Factory, 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £7.99 - £10.49

 

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Concerts in Caversham - Autumn Festival - Concert Three

Bass-baritone Dingle Yandell and pianist Adrienne Black present a powerful recital centred around Wagner’s Wesendonck Lieder, with additional works by Strauss, Loewe, Schumann, and Schubert.

*Autumn Festival has  four concerts - bundle offer and single ticket price available.

Date: Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue: St Andrew's Church, Albert Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7PL

Price: £18.00 - £26.00 per concert

 

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Fever presents: Candlelight - Halloween Classics

This Halloween season, Candlelight® enchants Reading with a special musical experience, blending classical masterpieces with iconic horror films and TV soundtracks. Set against the intimate backdrop of The Great Hall University of Reading, the concert will be performed live by a local string quartet and illuminated by thousands of LED candles that will transform the space into a magical and mysterious setting.

The programme has been carefully curated to pay tribute to the spooky, the fantastical, and the supernatural.

Date: Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 18:00

Venue: The Great Hall, The University of Reading, London Road, Reading, RG1 5AG

Price: £20.00 + booking fee

 

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Victorian Schoolroom Experience in the Abbey Gateway

Meet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the ‘3Rs’. A 45-minute experience for adults and children in our unique Victorian classroom, in the historic Abbey Gateway.

Please note that the Gateway has no step free access and there are uneven steps and floors.

Booking in advance essential!

Date: Friday 31st October 2025

Time: Bookable 45min session between 11:00 and 14:00

Venue: The Abbey Gateway, Reading Museum, Reading, RG1 3BD

Price: £2.00

 

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World Book Club: Savushun by Simin Daneshvar

Highly acclaimed work of contemporary Persian literature, this is the story of a landowning family in Shiraz, during the World War II Allied occupation of Iran.

Date: Thursday 30th October 2025

Time: From 19:30

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London St, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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What is Culture? An Intercultural Competence workshop

Join this workshop to discover how you can understand, communicate, and interact effectively with individuals from different cultural backgrounds. These workshops typically involve participants reflecting on their own cultural identity and developing skills like empathy, cross-cultural communication, and strategies for navigating potential misunderstandings.

You can use your attendance towards one of the RED Awards.

Date: Thursday 30th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 13:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, Edith Morley Building, Room 230, Whiteknights

 

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Halloween Pumpkin Carving

Pumpkin carving is back for Halloween 2025! Join us in the Foyer at 12pm or 2pm on Thursday 30th October. Grab a pumpkin and carve... IF YOU DARE!

A member of the team will be on hand to help out if needed. All ages welcome. Fancy dress strongly encouraged.

Date: Thursday 30th October 2025

Time: 12:00 and 14:00

Venue: Reading Biscuit Factory, 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £3.50 per pumpkin

 

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Railway 200 Big Draw

Join Museums Partnership Reading and Southeast Communities Rail Partnership to celebrate Railway 200 and this year’s BIG Draw Festival.

Discover the story of local pioneering draftswomen Elsie Winterton and be inspired by archive station pictures and plans to create your own drawings.

Free workshops and drop-in activities at The MERL from 10.30am  – 12.30pm & 1.30pm – 3.30pm, No experience or equipment necessary, all ages welcome!

Date: Thursday 30th October 2025

Time: 10:30 - 15:30

Venue: The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX

 

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A Ski Touring Adventure in the Jotunheimen

Jotunheimen, Norway’s Land of the Giants, the story of an epic journey (9 days, 180km and 8000m of ascent) around the Jotunheimen on alpine skis which included most of the Høgruta, Norway’s Haute Route.

Date: Wednesday 29th October 2025

Time: From 19:45

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London St, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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Home Away from Home: Sub-Saharan Africa

New to Reading? Come meet fellow students and enjoy a warm welcome with a taste of home!

This FREE event is designed especially for new international students from Sub-Saharan Africa.

There will be a regionally-themed food buffet, a selection of drinks, music and games! Cultural dress is encouraged. Make friends, eat well, and start your journey at Reading with us!

Registration required. By invitation only.

Date: Wednesday 29th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 18:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights

 

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A Diverse Woven Community - Hexham Walk

Join us for a walk to tour the local Mosque, returning to Hexham Centre to share refreshments and creative art activities for all abilities/ages.

Date: Wednesday 29th October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 15:45

Venue: Hexham Road Community Centre, 1A Bamburgh Cl, Reading, RG2 7UD

Price: FREE

 

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Law Careers Fair

Could you have a career in law? Do you know what path is for you? Open to Law and non-law students, the event is a great opportunity to meet employers, network, and learn more about the career options available to you.

Helpful and suitable for all students interested in Law as a career path, not just Law students and finalists! Law fairs are an important stage of the recruitment process that offers you the invaluable chance to meet recruiters, trainee solicitors, and partners from the law firms you could be joining in the future; they are a prime chance to network like no other.

Date: Wednesday 29th October 2025

Time: 12:30 - 15:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

 

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English Conversation Café: Black History Month and BAME Experiences

Practise your conversational English and join students and staff from across the University of Reading's global estate to discuss Black History Month and BAME experiences.

Our English Conversation Cafés help create a global network of Reading-based and Reading-linked students. You can meet up and help each other with your language and subject learning, confidence, intercultural understanding, and international engagement.

Each café has a different focus, allowing you to learn more about your peers, communities, and the world around you. In honour of Black History Month, this café will focus on Black History Month and BAME experiences.

Registration is required for online participation. Registration closes 48 hours before the café is scheduled to take place.

Date: Wednesday 29th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:00

Venue: ONLINE

 

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Halloween Movie Night: The Haunting (1963)

Join us this spooky season for a movie night watching Robert Wise's version of The Haunting. A group of observers are invited to spend the night in a troubled house by a paranormal expert.

A truly gripping film which will change the way you look at wallpaper. Number one on Martin Scorsese’s list of scariest films.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: From 19:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE

 

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Film: Transition Town Reading presents Ecosophia

Ecosophia means ecological wisdom; this documentary explores the interrelation between energy, the economy, resources, population, psychology, spirituality, the biosphere, the limits to growth and climate change. A simpler world is coming and what’s needed is as much a spiritual revolution as a physical one.

The film screening is followed by a post-film panel discussion.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: From 19:00 - 21:30

Venue: Reading Biscuit Factory, 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £6.49 - £8.99

 

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RSU Effective Altruism Society Event

A chance for society members to meet each other and find our more about the society and its activities.

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 21:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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RASPO Steel Band Taster Workshop

Join our Steel Band workshops and learn to play steel pan music with RASPO. Families, children, young people, all ages and abilities welcome.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: 16:30 - 17:30

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £10.00 / £7.50 / Free

 

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Golders Club event: A celebration to amplify Black talent

The University of Reading and Reading Students’ Union are excited to welcome back the Golders Club for lunch and a celebration of Black creative talent in the community, such as art, dance, music and poetry.

This is a celebration to amplify Black talent, and we welcome staff and students who want to join us by volunteering at the event, including welcoming and chatting with guests or sharing their creative talents.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Ho-Kit Lam, Community Engagement Officer.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 15:00

Venue: Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

 

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The Big Artwork Event: A Jane Austen's art extravaganza

Come and join us this October half term for an Art Extravaganza for all the family to enjoy. Delve into a world of creativity and imagination as we explore various art forms and techniques together.

In celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary, this year’s Big Artwork event is inspired by the art of the Regency period! Join us as we explore the elegance and creativity of Austen’s time and reinterpret it with a contemporary twist. You will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of artistic activities, celebrating Austen’s legacy in a fun and imaginative way. Whether you’re a Jane Austen enthusiast or simply love to create, this event offers something for everyone. The workshop is free, but booking is essential.

Date: Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 14:30

Venue: New Directions College, 330 Northumberland Avenue, Whitley, Reading, RG2 8DH

Price: FREE

 

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Objects from Home

Join photographer George Bull for a collaborative photography session exploring identity. As part of his practice George is interested in how we hold onto identities from where we were born and grew up. Whether you are from the UK or further abroad we all carry our identity with us and display it in the places we live as a reminder of home.

In this 15-20 minute 1-to-1 or small group (max 3 people) session you will photograph an object you feel expresses your identity from your place of origin. You will have the option to be photographed with the object as a self portrait or produce a still life of the object using professional photographic equipment.

We'd love to invite you to drop in anytime through the session with an object that means something to you.

The image you produce will be included as part of George's long term photographic project exploring how Britain is made up of a patchwork of cultures and identities.

Date: Daily from Tuesday 28th October until Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: From 09:00 or 13:00

Venue: Jelly, 1st floor, 115-116 Broad Street Mall, Reading, RG1 7QE.

Price: FREE

 

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Titus Andronicus

The Bard's bloodiest play is about to get bloodier. Titus Andronicus is a gory revenge play, performed in the style of '80s horror, with a raunchy soundtrack, goths, PVC, twisted metal and fleeting but visceral gore. William Shakespeare meets slasher movie.

When Titus Andronicus returns from the war with his Goth prisoners, his brother Marcus wants him proclaimed emperor. Titus declines in favour of Saturninus, who takes Tamora, the Goth Queen as his bride. Tamora seeks revenge on Titus, and her daughters, encouraged by the evil Aaron, savagely assault Lavinia, Titus' daughter. From here, the violence escalates to a gruesome and tragic finale.

Depicts violent and graphic scenes which may upset some people – see our content warnings.

Date: Monday 27th October until Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: From 19:45

Venue: Progress Theatre, Reading, RG1 5HL

Price: £13.00 - £16.00 + booking fee

 

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Bingo Lingo Halloween House of Horrors

Experience the madness of the UK's most renowned bingo event: hilarious hosts, wild on-stage performers, stage battles, epic prizes all night long and non-stop singalong bangers all themed for Halloween!

Buy Monday 27th October TICKETS HERE!

Buy Tuesday 28th October TICKETS HERE!

Date: Monday 27th October AND Tuesday 28th October 2025

Time: 19:00 - 23:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: £7.00 - £11.00

 

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Quiz Night at Reading Biscuit Factory

Head-scratching, brain-busting questions, with obligatory drinks breaks of course. Come along for the quiz night of all quiz nights, and win some great prizes (including free film tickets and drinks).

Maximum team size is 6 people. Specialist rounds for Monday 27th October are Tom Hanks films and Biscuit Brands.

Date: Monday 27th October 2025

Time: From 19:00

Venue: Reading Biscuit Factory. 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £3.50

 

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Dice Doodles x Altered Book Hour - Halloween Special Edition 2025

Spooky season themed dice-driven art games from Dice Doodles and Random Doodle Club will meet creepy collage and paper-folding from Altered Book Hour! Inspired by ghosts and ghouls (and the odd friendly spider), we'll be making creepy and wonderful things in our altered books using dice to take the stress out of choosing what to make. All collage and drawing materials, scissors, glue, and old books provided. Bring your own altered book or a hardback sketcbook if you prefer.

Date: Monday 27th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 19:30

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: £5.00 suggested donation

 

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Artists of the Great War: A talk to Reading u3a by art historian Mike Grundy

During the First World War artists recorded and documented all aspects of the conflict from the violence of the fighting fronts to the social and industrial change at home. Art was seen as a means to remember the fallen and to provide effective propaganda. The images which were produced continue to shape our interpretations of the ‘Great War’.

For anyone interested in the art of that period, this presentation by Mike Grundy, an expert in the history of art and architecture, will be a treat. To find out more about the significance of the artists who recorded the Great War, come along to this open meeting.

Date: Monday 27th October 2025

Time: From 14:00

Venue: Abbey Baptist Church, Abbey Square, Reading RG1 3BE.

Price: FREE

 

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Beale Wildlife Park Pumpkin Patch

Explore our colourful pumpkin patch, wander the woodland scarecrow walk, dress up your dog day 1st Nov, warm autumn treats and drinks, face painting fun, and tackle the maze quest! Autumn seasonal fun for everyone!

Date: Monday 27th October - Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 10:30 - 15:30 daily

Venue: Beale Wildlife Park, Lower Basildon, Pangbourne, Reading, RG8 9NW

Price: £5.00

 

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Wasing 'Pick Your Own' Pumpkins & Woodland Trail Event 2025

Wasing Estate is hosting its annual ‘Pick Your Own Pumpkins and Woodland Trail’ Event for ticket holders to kick off their autumn celebrations. Upon arrival, guests will be invited to wander down the Estate’s enchanting woodland trail where they’ll be met by a life-sized fairytale pumpkin carriage and stunning autumnal views.

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, guests will have the chance to pick their very own pumpkin from the Estate’s rustic patch - wheelbarrow in hand! - and enjoy seasonal snacks and drinks under the cosy stretch tent before heading home to carve their very own Wasing pumpkin, the perfect way to commence the autumnal festivities.

Date: Monday 27th October - Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 09:00 - 16:00 daily

Venue: Wasing Estate, Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 4LY

Price: £6.50

 

 

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Week 4

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Readifolk Theme Night - Waters of Time

What's the difference between a Singers Night and a Theme Night?

A Singers Night is a friendly informal gathering where you, the audience, provide the entertainment. Everyone has a chance to perform, – a song, a tune, a poem, a story or a joke. All standards are acceptable. You can of course just sit back and be entertained by others if you wish. You will all get a warm welcome.

A Theme Night is much the same as a Singers Night except we try to link the songs etc. to the theme, however tenuous the link may be.

Come and surprise with your songs related to "Waters of Time".

Date: Sunday 26th October 2025

Time: From 20:00

Venue: The Community Hall, Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street, Reading, RG1 4RJ

Price: £3

 

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The Sunday Alternative

The Sunday Alternative is a SECULAR congregation that celebrates life, meeting once a month in Reading. Members of the Assembly believe in Living Better, Helping Often and Wondering More, for no other reason than to make the most of the one life we know we have.

In the company of a lovely diverse bunch of people, the assembly is a lively combination of group singing, silly games, interesting words, and eating cake.

The Sunday Alternative is welcoming of all ages and backgrounds, is free to attend and runs entirely on donations.

Date: Sunday 26th October 2025

Time: 10:30 - 13:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE with donations welcome

 

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Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra - Mahler's Symphony No. 9

The Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra (APO) will return to the Great Hall at the University of Reading this autumn for a rare and emotionally charged performance of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 9, marking the orchestra’s first Mahler performance since 2018.

As always, APO’s celebrated Concert Virgin scheme offers free tickets - no questions asked - to anyone who’s never experienced a live orchestral performance. It’s our way of welcoming newcomers to the magic of classical music. These complimentary tickets can be reserved via the APO website.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue: The Great Hall, University of Reading, London Road Campus

Price: FREE (See above) or £15.00 

 

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Concerts in Caversham - Autumn Festival - Concert Two

Flute, harp, and viola in a unique combination -performed by the acclaimed Pelleas Ensemble;. known for their intimate sound and innovative programming. Their critically acclaimed debut album, ‘Nature and the Imagination’, (Linn Records) a collection of repertoire spanning three centuries, demonstrates the versatility of the ensemble. Their next album will be released in 2025 (Tactus Records) after being recorded in Italy.

*Autumn Festival has  four concerts - bundle offer and single ticket price available.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue: St Andrew's Church, Albert Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7PL

Price: £18.00 - £26.00 per concert

 

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St Vincent & Grenadines 46th Independence Day Celebration

Part of Reading International Festival. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was the last Windward Island to gain its independence from Britain on October 27, 1979. Join the celebration of formal dinner, dance, and entertainment.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 01:00

Venue: St. Vincent and Grenadines Association (Reading), The Hilton Hotel, Drake Way, Reading, RG2 0GQ

Price: £75.00

 

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CAT VIDEO FEST 2025

CatVideoFest is a compilation reel of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses. CatVideoFest is a joyous communal experience, only available in cinemas, and raises money for cats in need through partnerships with local cat charities, animal welfare organisations, and shelters to best serve cats in the area.

10% from every ticket will be donated to Thames Valley Animal Welfare.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025 and Sunday 26th October 2025

Time: 25th - 14:30 & 19:30; 26th 15:00

Venue: Reading Biscuit Factory, 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £7.49 - £10.49

 

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Welcome to Reading Coffee Morning: Black History Month Special

Welcome to Reading Coffee Morning is a regular event at Reading Central Library. The coffee morning acts as a useful information hub for people new to the area as well as a chance for any Reading resident to drop in and enjoy free refreshments.

For Black History Month there will be an empowering  workshop facilitated by actor Eyum-Priscilla Ocheola, kindly sponsored by Reading Rep Theatre and hosted by Reading Libraries. We will be focussing on the lives of notable Black people and their achievements and contributions. This will lead on to a writing workshop encouraging people attending to share times when they have felt they have also been Standing Firm in Power and Pride. Suitable for all levels.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 13:00

Venue: Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Price: FREE

 

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Reading Alternative Market at Reading Students' Union

Reading Alternative Market returns to Reading University Students Union for our annual Halloween market. Expect our usual offering of slightly unusual or 'out there' goodies, with lots of stalls selling art, jewellery, taxidermy, dragons, resin art, Wiccan items, crystals, and lots more! Plus the odd horror icon wandering about, dress up photo booth, giveaways, instant prizes... AND if you come in a Halloween costume, you get a free gift!

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 10:30 - 16:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Artist in Residence - Making Notebooks

Join George Bull for an opportunity to learn how to make your own notebook using traditional Japanese stab binding techniques. Just bring yourself, some enthusiasm and maybe a friend.

This will be a relaxed introduction to making your own notebooks using Japanese stab binding. All are welcome, if you are just interested or a binding pro, there will be a range of binding options on offer and plenty of support to help you through the process.

All materials are provided.

Date: Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 11:00

Venue: Jelly, 1st floor, 115-116 Broad Street Mall, Reading, RG1 7Q

Price: £4.50

 

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Rotary Charity Art & Craft Fair 2025

The Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh is proud to present its 15th annual Reading Charity Art & Craft Fair at the end of October 2025. If you love art you will find something to fall in love with at our annual exhibition.

The Reading Charity Art and Craft Fair offers: Paintings, ceramics and crafts by local people; Refreshments, sandwiches and cakes at the Art Cafe; and Charity preview drinks and canapes evening on 24th October.

Date: Saturday 25th October and Sunday 26th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 17:00/16:00 

Venue: Leighton Park School, Oakview Centre, Pepper Lane Entrance, Reading, RG2 7DJ

Price: FREE

 

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HALLOWEEN TRAIL at Caversham Court Gardens

This is our 5th Halloween Trail with over 20 displays including many new ones along with some old favourites.  Be scared, amused, wowed and educated. Discover ghosts, witches, weird creatures and nature spirits, all made from recycled materials.  Suitable for children of all ages and with lots of interest for grown ups too.

The trail will be open even if it is showery. The Tea Kiosk will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weather permitting.Unfortunately there is no wheelchair access to the lower levels of the gardens at the present time.

Date: Saturday 25th October and Sunday 26th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 17:00

Venue: Caversham Court Gardens, Church Road, Caversham, RG4 7AD

Price: FREE

 

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Reading Dub Club ‘Message Music of Struggle and Liberation’

Part of Reading International Festival. A traditional sound system session featuring Track One Downbeat (ft Aqua Livi) outta Reading and Field Frequency (full crew) outta Oxford.

Date: Friday 24th October 2025

Time: 20:00 - 01:00

Venue: Reading Dub Club. The Butler Pub, Chatham St, Reading, RG1 7DS

Price: £8.00

 

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Burkina Faso – Daring To Invent Its Future

Part of Reading International Festival. Learn about how Burkina Faso is leading Africa towards self sufficiency and full sovereignty. Wend-Panga Compaore will update us on the latest news and events. Historic photographic exhibition from the Sankara years by Dave Richards. Music, food and stalls.

Date: Friday 24th October 2025

Time: 19:30 - 22:00

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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Concerts in Caversham -Autumn Festival - Concert One

The vibrant CinC Ensemble led by Ellie Fagg will present a programme of string quartets and trios with Dvorak's String Quintet in G major op 77 - with double bass as an added bonus!

*Autumn Festival has  four concerts - bundle offer and single ticket price available.

Date: Friday 24th October 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue: St Andrew's Church, Albert Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7PL

Price: £18.00 - £26.00 per concert

 

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William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juilet

A scorching summer. Two ferocious families clash, again…from the bloodshed two young people fall in love, but is their fate already written in the stars? Join the award-winning Guildford Shakespeare Company for an urgent retelling of Romeo and Juliet; set in a Verona full of mafia underground dealings and high fashion parties.

Date: Friday 24th October & Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 19:30 on 24th & 15:00 on 25th

Venue: Reading Rep Theatre, King's Road, Reading, RG1 4LY

Price: £15.00

 

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University of Reading Friday Get Together Diwali Celebration

The University of Reading and Hindu Society welcome you to a special Diwali-themed Friday Get Together at the University of Reading, with traditional arts and crafts, Bollywood music and plenty of vegetarian food! Come along to connect with students, staff, alumni and members of the local community. Everyone is welcome!

Activities include: Diya making and decorating Lantern making And more! If you have any questions regarding this event. A buffet food service is available for purchase on the day, and students with meal plans can also use their plans on the evening. Please note, a general admission ticket does not include the purchase of food (£8.00).

Register to attend on Eventbrite.

Date: Friday 24th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 17:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights, University of Reading, RG6 6UR

 

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William Shakespeare's Macbeth

Macbeth has enthralled audiences for over 400 hundred years, now the award-winning Guildford Shakespeare Company brings Shakespeare’s super-charged thriller to your doorstep, in this especially adapted touring production.

Date: Friday 24th October & Saturday 25th October 2025

Time: 15:00 on 24th & 19:30 on 25th

Venue: Reading Rep Theatre, King's Road, Reading, RG1 4LY

Price: £15.00

 

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Black History Month: Community Fete 2025

Join us in the heart of Reading for our Black History Month Flagship Event — a vibrant community marketplace at Broad Street Mall. This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” shines a light on the creativity, strength, and resilience of Black communities. The event will showcase Black-owned businesses, unique products, and powerful art displays, creating a lively space to shop, connect, and celebrate culture. Open to all, it’s an opportunity to support local talent, honour Black history, and embrace pride in the present.

Date: Friday 24th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 15:00

Venue: Broad Street Mall, Broad Street, Reading, RG1 7QE

 

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Beale Wildlife Park Pumpkin Patch

Explore our colourful pumpkin patch, wander the woodland scarecrow walk, dress up your dog day 1st Nov, warm autumn treats and drinks, face painting fun, and tackle the maze quest! Autumn seasonal fun for everyone!

Date: Friday 24th October - Saturday 1st November 2025

Time: 10:30 - 15:30 daily

Venue: Beale Wildlife Park, Lower Basildon, Pangbourne, Reading, RG8 9NW

Price: £5.00

 

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Wasing 'Pick Your Own' Pumpkins & Woodland Trail Event 2025

Wasing Estate is hosting its annual ‘Pick Your Own Pumpkins and Woodland Trail’ Event for ticket holders to kick off their autumn celebrations. Upon arrival, guests will be invited to wander down the Estate’s enchanting woodland trail where they’ll be met by a life-sized fairytale pumpkin carriage and stunning autumnal views.

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, guests will have the chance to pick their very own pumpkin from the Estate’s rustic patch - wheelbarrow in hand! - and enjoy seasonal snacks and drinks under the cosy stretch tent before heading home to carve their very own Wasing pumpkin, the perfect way to commence the autumnal festivities.

Date: Friday 24th October - Friday 31st October 2025

Time: 09:00 - 16:00 daily

Venue: Wasing Estate, Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 4LY

Price: £6.50

 

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InTheMiddle: Networking, panel interview & more!

Join us on Thursday 23rd October for the first event - the Black History Month edition. This event will be a chance to mingle and connect with a range of people, have interesting discussions, and get practical insights from our panelists who are making strides in their respective industries!

Panel hosted by Nieema Hassan - Presenter, Producer & Host

Featuring:

  • Alice Mpofu-Coles (PhD) - Mayor of Reading, Councillor, Author & Speaker
  • Chigoziem Mottoh - Strategist, Founder, Mentor & Coach
  • Ruth Obediah - Founder of Braids Central, Celebrity Braider & Educator
  • Ola Daranijo - Marketing Technology Consultant & Founder of OAD Solutions

Date: Thursday 23rd October 2025

Time: 18:30

Venue: Creperie Doux Sourire, Riverside Level, The Oracle, Reading, RG1 2AG

Price: £16.96

 

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German 'Kulturstammtisch'

If you're German, speak German, study German, or interested to find out more about German culture and traditions, then join German staff and students from the Department of Languages and Cultures for 'Kaffee und Kuchen' to talk about and discuss aspects of everyday culture in German-speaking countries. Refreshments provided and you're welcome to bring your own too! 

Date: Thursday 23rd October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 13:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Film Screening: Wild Coast Warriors and Q&A with film producer

Part of Reading International Festival. Oil exploration threatens South Africa’s Wild Coast and its indigenous people. A local campaign, protest and court-case succeeded in halting Shell, winning protection for their ocean and culture.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 19:30

Venue:  Reading Biscuit Factory, 1 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

Price: £6.99 - £8.99

 

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Home Away from Home: India and South Asia

New to Reading? Come meet fellow students and enjoy a warm welcome with a taste of home!

This FREE event is designed especially for new international students from India and South Asia.

There will be a regionally-themed food buffet, a selection of drinks, music and games! Cultural dress is encouraged. Make friends, eat well, and start your journey at Reading with us!

Registration required. By invitation only.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 18:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights

 

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Universal Voices Spooky Sing

Everyone welcome! Join Universal Voices in the beautiful Harris Garden on the University of Reading's Whiteknights campus for a spooky Halloween sing! Bring your friends, your family, and your best spooky singing voice. This event promises to be a hauntingly good evening for all - no tricks, just a real treat!

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 17:30

Venue: Harris Garden, Whiteknights, University of Reading

 

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NUIST Transfer Student Welcome Event

If you've just arrived in Reading as a NUIST transfer student, come along to the Global Study Lounge to be welcomed by Professor Daniela Standen, UoR-NUIST Academic Director of Teaching and Learning, and Professor Daguo Li, UoR-NUIST Academy Deputy Dean, to find out more about what's on offer to you here at the University of Reading. Its also a great chance to network with staff and your fellow students.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 17:30

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Extended Welcome

Are you a late arriving student? Or perhaps weren't able to experience the fullness of Welcome. These Extended Welcome sessions aim to provide information, resources, with welcoming colleagues to Welcome you to the University. Crafts and light refreshments will also be available. Guided Tours at the Library will be running after the session.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 14:30 - 15:30

Venue: Carrington Building 201, Whiteknights

 

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Part 2 Professional Placement Year Boot Camp

Come along to this in person Professional Placement Year Boot Camp and leave feeling confident and prepared to apply for placements.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 17:00

Venue: ONLINE

 

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Research Symposium: Ideas and experiences that form part of the history of the Black diaspora

As part of Black History Month, the Department of History will host a symposium. This event will allow lecturers and students from across the University to present their research on the history of the Black diaspora. Presentations will cover various chronological, geographical, and theoretical contexts.

The symposium is open to anyone at any stage of their academic career (from BA students to emeritus professors) who wishes to present and discuss their interests and work with colleagues from different disciplines. After the presentations, we will have the opportunity to discuss this research and future steps over tea and cake.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 17:00

Venue: Edith Morley 128, Whiteknights, Reading

 

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Careers: RED Awards - Getting Started and Finding Opportunities

Join the careers team to find out more about the RED Awards. You will find out how to get involved and what opportunities you can use as evidence towards your award application.

Find out more and register for the session.

Date: Wednesday 22nd October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 15:00

Venue: Confirmed when registered

 

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Black History Month: Classical Humanism and White Supremacy

Latinity as Humanity: Classical Humanism and White Supremacy. In this talk, we will encounter two early modern humanists, whose engagement with Latin literature challenged classical humanism's narrow conception of who counted as fully human. Juan Latino was a formerly enslaved Black African in sixteenth-century Spain, who rose to become the first Black professor of Latin. Phyllis Wheatley, also born into slavery in eighteenth-century New England, also gained her freedom in part through asserting her humanity through her Latinity. Everyone is welcome at our events.

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2025

Time: 19:30 - 21:30

Venue: Quakers Friends Meeting House, 2 Church Street, Reading, RG1 2SB

 

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RSU Effective Altruism Society Event

A chance for society members to meet each other and find our more about the society and its activities.

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 21:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Steel Band Workshop for Beginners

Join our Steel Band workshops and learn to play steel pan music with RASPO. Families, children, young people, all ages and abilities welcome.

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2025

Time: 17:30 - 18:30

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £10.00 / Free

 

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Community Chatty Café at the MERL

Perfect for anyone wanting a change of scene or the opportunity to socialise with others in the unique environment of The MERL.

There will be various optional activities available such as craft, MERL-themed board games and also the chance to discuss, reminisce and share stories inspired by our historical collections.

A perfect opportunity to join us for an afternoon at the museum. Refreshments available. Booking not required. Groups of 4+, please notify 0118 378 8661 or email merlevents@reading.ac.uk.

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 16:00

Venue: Museum of English Rural Life (MERL), 6 Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX

 

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Tuesday Together at Reading Minster

Time to chat, to puzzle or play a game… or do some mindful colouring or just enjoy the peace of the Minster with a coffee or tea.

All welcome!

Date: Tuesday 21st October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:30

Venue: Reading Minster, St Mary's Butts, Reading, RG1 2LG

 

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An Evening with Matthew Teller, author & broadcaster

Part of Reading International Festival. Matthew Teller is a writer and broadcaster with decades of experience reporting on Israel, Palestine and the wider Middle East. His latest book Daybreak in Gaza tells Gazan’s stories in their own words. Mathhew’s extensive knowledge of the region, its history and cultures is eye-opening. Signed copies available.

Date: Monday 20th October 2025

Time: 19:00

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: £5.00

 

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Jazzrobeat Collective Concert

The Jazzrobeat Collective end of term concert will showcase an eclectic repertoire and the talents of the young performers.

Book your free ticket.

Date: Monday 20th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 19:00

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: FREE

 

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SHAG Week: Body Confidence Workshop with RU Pole Fitness

Come along to this FREE taster session with Pole Fitness, all about body positivity this SHAG Week!

Spaces are very limited, so be sure to sign up to guarantee your space!

Date: Monday 20th October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 15:00

Venue: SportsPark, Whiteknights, Reading

 

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Inequality in Healthcare: Why are Black people overrepresented in Mental Health Act Detentions?

Join us as we present our project, which focuses on addressing healthcare inequality. In the UK, Black people are much more likely to be detained under the Mental Health Act than white people. This means they can be held in hospital for mental health treatment without their consent.

Recent national data shows some improvement: Black people are now three and a half times more likely to be detained than white people, rather than five times. While this is progress, we still have a long way to go to achieve fairness. This significant inequality in healthcare needs to be addressed. Our project aims to understand why this happens and find ways to make mental health care fairer for Black people.

Date: Monday 20th October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 14:00

Venue: G12 Chancellors, Whiteknights, Reading

 

 

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Week 3

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Maggie Holland at Readifolk

Maggie Holland was born in Hampshire and has been a folk musician since she became involved with folk clubs in the late sixties.  She has been based in Scotland since the early 1990s, and sings contemporary and traditional songs, including her own songs which are sung by many other folk musicians.  She writes songs of experience, real life and politics.

Date: Sunday 19th October 2025

Time: From 20:00

Venue: The Community Hall, Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street, Reading, RG1 4RJ

Price: £10.00

 

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Walk Reading: An introduction to Reading's heritage

Explore Reading's rich heritage on a guided walk, uncovering historic landmarks, stories from the past, portentous events and hidden gems that showcase the town's fascinating past and dynamic present.

This journey takes you through some of the most intriguing landmarks and stories that define Reading’s past and present. Our walk begins at Reading Gaol, 'celebrated' for its connection to Oscar Wilde.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, literature lover, or simply curious about the town, this walk promises to captivate and inspire.

Date: Sunday 19th October 2025

Time: From 10:00

Venue: Starting point - Banksy Mural by Reading Gaol (What3Words location - windy.lift.gloves)

Price: £9.00

 

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Reading Diwali Mela 2025

Get ready to immerse yourself in a night of vibrant colors, rhythmic beats, food and joyful celebrations as we celebrate the Festival of Lights together. A night that's going to be lit with colors, beats, food, traditions and all-around good vibes!

Celebrate Diwali with family, culture & community spirit! Time to throw on your coolest desi outfits and join us for the ultimate Diwali Celebration hosted by Hosted by Art Celebration.

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 22:00

Venue: Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Rushey Way, Earley, RG6 4GD

Price: £8.30

 

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Yeh Dosti - Celebrating 50 Years Of Sholay

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic Bollywood film, Sholay. This spectacular music and dance show will transport you back to the heart of Bollywood’s golden era, honouring the legacy of a movie that has captivated audiences for half a century.

Yeh Dosti : A Golden Jubilee Celebration will feature mesmerising dance performances choreographed to the film’s legendary soundtrack, bringing to life the energy, drama, and romance that made Sholay a timeless classic. Our talented cast of dancers and musicians will recreate the magic of the movie with dazzling costumes, vibrant sets, and electrifying performances.

Experience the unforgettable dances and songs that have defined Bollywood cinema. Yeh Dosti is a celebration of the film’s enduring impact on popular culture and its place in the hearts of millions.

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: From 16:00

Venue: South Street Theatre, 21 South Street, Reading, RG1 4QU

Price: £27.50

 

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DIWALI Light It Up 2025

Celebrate Diwali with Kala The Arts as the town comes alive with light, music and movement! Come dressed in your brightest colours and experience the magic of music and dance lighting up the heart of Reading!

Festivities begin at 4:15pm with a community stage performance in Town Hall Square, including Deep Listening, a new autumn piece inspired by nature and Devi-Light. At 5:15pm, parade participants gather beside M&S Foodhall, then at 5:30pm the Grand Lantern Parade sets off, filling Broad Street with colour until it reaches Halifax at 6:30pm.

This year’s theme, Devi, honours the power and beauty of the goddess and the natural world. Reading will glow with towering 17-foot puppets of Sita, Rama, Ganesh and their companions, surrounded by dozens of lanterns and light installations. Get ready for Broad Street to pulse with the beat of dhol drums, live music and dancers in beautiful costumes, inspired by the likes of goddesses, animals and mythic tales.

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: From 16:00

Venue: From Town Hall Square to Broad Street

Price: FREE - Just turn up!

 

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Broad Street Beats

Calling all ghosts, ghouls, and music lovers – Broad Street Beats is back and ready to raise the spirits! Join us for a fang-tastic day full of live tunes, community spirit and wickedly good fun for the whole family.

Take part in our Halloween costume competition. Be there by 13:00 to be included in the competition, winners announced at 13:30. Prizes from Urban Fun Reading, Reading Biscuit Factory and more!

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 15:00

Venue: Central Square, Broad Street Mall, Broad Street, RG1 7QE

Price: FREE - Just turn up!

 

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Come and Sing Workshop: Mozart Mass in C minor

Everyone is welcome to spend an exciting day with us, learning one of the great pieces of the choral repertoire.  Led by our conductor, Daniel Mahoney, join Reading Bach Choir at this workshop.

Cost includes teas/coffees, cake and the music.  Bring your own lunch.

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 16:30

Venue: Caversham Heights Methodist Church, Highmoor Road, Caversham, RG4 7BG

Price: £25.00

 

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Reading Farmers' Market

Come and browse local food, drink and more and buy directly from the producers at our local farmers' market, named Best Food Market in the Great British Market Awards 2020.

You can expect to find fresh fruit, veg and mushrooms, high welfare meat, fish and eggs, cheese, honey, baked goods, doughnuts, fudge, cider, beer and natural skincare.

Follow the market on Facebook or sign up for the newsletter for details of the line-up of traders each time.

Date: Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: 08:15 – 12:00

Venue: Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street, Reading, RG1 7HU

Price: FREE

 

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Matt Kennard – Uncovering Empire from Palestine to Haiti

Part of Reading International Festival. Matt Kennard former Financial Times investigative journalist, author of the Racket and Silent Coup, will draw on his in-depth investigations of violence, exploitation and resistance by the world’s biggest enterprises. His reporting covers many years in more than a dozen countries including Haiti, Palestine, Bolivia, Mexico, Tunisia and Egypt.

Registration required.

Date: Friday 17th October 2025

Time: 19:30 - 22:00

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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RSU Photography Society Event

Open to all levels and abilities, a chance for society members to meet each other and find our more about the society and its activities. 

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Friday 17th October 2025

Time: 19:30 - 20:30

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Play for Ukraine: Triple Headline Show

Play for Ukraine is back at the Facebar for a night of three of Reading's top bands that play songs you know and love, all giving their time and talent to raise a maximum amount of funds to go to The Reading Ukrainian community centre.

Date: Friday 17th October 2025

Time: From 18:30

Venue: Face Bar, Ambrose Place, Chatham Street, Reading, RG1 7JE

Price: £10.00 pay on the door

 

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Woodley & Earley Autumn Art Exhibition

Drop into the Woodley & Earley Autumn Art Exhibition where over a 100 original paintings will be on display and for sale as well as prints, cards and gifts. Meet some of the artists and view art demonstrations and vote for your favourite picture. Entry is free. Refreshments are available at the on-site café.

Date: Friday 17th October and Saturday 18th October 2025

Time: 10:00 - 17:00 on both days.

Venue: The Oakwood Centre, Headley Road, Woodley, RG5 4JZ

Price: FREE

 

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Wasing 'Pick Your Own' Pumpkins & Woodland Trail Event 2025

Wasing Estate is hosting its annual ‘Pick Your Own Pumpkins and Woodland Trail’ Event for ticket holders to kick off their autumn celebrations. Upon arrival, guests will be invited to wander down the Estate’s enchanting woodland trail where they’ll be met by a life-sized fairytale pumpkin carriage and stunning autumnal views.

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, guests will have the chance to pick their very own pumpkin from the Estate’s rustic patch - wheelbarrow in hand! - and enjoy seasonal snacks and drinks under the cosy stretch tent before heading home to carve their very own Wasing pumpkin, the perfect way to commence the autumnal festivities.

Date: Friday 17th October - Sunday 19th October 2025

Time: 09:00 - 16:00 daily

Venue: Wasing Estate, Aldermaston, Berkshire, RG7 4LY

Price: £6.50

 

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Online Housing Talk

Want to know more about finding a house as a student? Not sure where to start? Then join our Housing Talk with Housing Advisor.

Register to attend.

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025

Time: 19:00 - 20:00

Location: ONLINE

 

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Refugee Action Panel on Racial Justice Asylum in the UK: A Frontline for Racial Justice

Refugee Action and the University of Reading are delighted to be working in collaboration to host this panel discussion during Black History Month, focusing on the intersection of asylum rights and racial justice. In collaboration with Jonathan Kazembe from Refugee Action, our discussion will highlight the systemic racism present within the UK asylum system – a key focus of our report.

Please register your attendance.

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 20:00

Location: L022 G01, London Road Campus, Reading

 

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Creative Connection: Through A Different Lens

In this event we are uplifting and celebrating the work and stories of the black community with a range of films from across the country. This event is open to all, but as we do throughout the year we want to open up the film space to a wider range of talent and stories. Event supported by University of Reading and Film Hub South East.

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 19:00

Location: Reading Biscuit Factory, Queen's Walk, Reading, RG1 7QE

 

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Talking About disability: the employer perspective (Round Table with Peoplewise)

Wondering how employers handle disability inclusion in practice? Join us for this virtual discussion, hosted in partnership with Peoplewise, where professionals from the public and private sectors will share how they support disabled candidates and employees - from application through to day-to-day working life.

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 17:30

Venue: ONLINE

 

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Women of Hebron – Supporting Fair Trade Livelihoods in Palestine

Part of Reading International Festival. Talk by Nawal Slemiah founder and director of Women in Hebron, a cooperative that produces traditional Palestinian embroidery. She will be speaking about the work of the cooperative in helping women earn a living wage through the sale of fair trade handicrafts. Palestinian crafts and products available for sale.

Free snacks and refreshments.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 19:00 - 21:30

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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RSU Nepalese Society Event: Sip & Paint Girls' Night

A chance for female society members to meet each other and paints whilst enjoying refreshments. 

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 18:30 - 21:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Home Away from Home: Europe

New to Reading? Come meet fellow students and enjoy a warm welcome with a taste of home!

This FREE event is designed especially for new international students from Europe.

There will be a regionally-themed food buffet, a selection of drinks, music and games! Cultural dress is encouraged. Make friends, eat well, and start your journey at Reading with us!

Registration required. By invitation only.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 18:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights

 

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Extended Welcome

Are you a late arriving student? Or perhaps weren't able to experience the fullness of Welcome. These Extended Welcome sessions aim to provide information, resources, with welcoming colleagues to Welcome you to the University. Crafts and light refreshments will also be available. Guided Tours at the Library will be running after the session.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 14:30 - 15:30

Venue: Carrington Building 201, Whiteknights

 

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Neurodivergence: navigating the recruitment process

If you are a neurodivergent student or graduate, navigating the recruitment process may feel daunting. This session will look at the barriers you face, and provide solutions to overcome them. Our disability partner, EmployAbility, will cover topics such as imposter syndrome, fear of discrimination, information about inclusive employers, your legal rights, and examples of adjustments to help you demonstrate your skills and competencies. It will be a safe space to learn, and get answers to questions you may have. We very much hope you’ll be able to join.

You do not need a diagnosis to attend this session, if you feel you are affected, then please come along to this session designed to provide practical advice and guidance to empower you to succeed in your job applications.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 15:00

Venue: ONLINE

 

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Careers and Placements Fair

Join for our largest careers event of the year, open to all years and disciplines!

You can meet employers targeting Reading students; find graduate schemes, placements, internships, and more; meet exhibitors range from SMEs to large corporations; and be inspired and get advice!

There will be a careers Expert Bar for tips and guidance on CVs, applications and careers with your degree. You can also find out more about Postgraduate Study at Reading by visiting the Graduate School stand!

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 10:30 - 15:00

Venue: Palmer Building, Whiteknights

 

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Find a Housemate

Meet your future housemates over a coffee and a chat in Up! Plus, meet our Housing Advisor, Jane, for advice about renting and student housing.

FREE HOT DRINK from Up! for all attendees. Plus, make gingerbread houses with your new mates.

Date: Wednesday 15th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:00 AND 16:00 - 17:00

Venue: UP! Cafe, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

 

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Jeneba Kanneh-Mason Piano Concert and Pre-Concert Talk

We are delighted to welcome Jeneba back to The Concert Hall with a programme that includes works by Chopin, Debussy and Florence Price that are featured on her album, together with music by J.S. Bach (Partita No. 5) and Beethoven (Sonata No. 17, ‘The Tempest’).

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: From 19:30

Venue: Concert Hall, Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH

Price: £6.00 students

 

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RSU Effective Altruism Society Event

A chance for society members to meet each other and find our more about the society and its activities.

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 21:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Public Lecture: Into the World of Stonehenge

Join Professor Duncan Garrow as he takes us on a journey back 5000 years to explore the real human stories behind one of the world’s best known but most misunderstood monuments.

Drawing from the highly acclaimed 'World of Stonehenge' exhibition he co-curated at the British Museum in 2022 – which drew 190,000 visitors and generated a bestselling book – Professor Garrow will discuss artefacts ranging from spectacular gold and bronze metalwork to unassuming wooden objects, each revealing unusual secrets about the restless and highly connected age of Stonehenge.

As part of this special event, attendees will also get an exclusive first look at a soon-to-be-launched immersive 3D experience that lets digital visitors explore the World of Stonehenge beyond the museum's walls.

Registration required.

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 20:00

Venue: ONLINE

 

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Steel Band Workshop for Beginners

Join our Steel Band workshops and learn to play steel pan music with RASPO. Families, children, young people, all ages and abilities welcome.

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 17:30 - 18:30

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £10.00 / Free

 

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Shaun Flores presents: Redemption Culture, Not Cancel Culture: Calling People In, Not Calling Them Out

Shaun's workshop "Redemption Culture, Not Cancel Culture: Calling People In, Not Calling Them Out" is a powerful exploration of what it means to hold accountability with compassion.

This session pushes beyond cancel culture, arguing that true progress happens when we replace public shaming with honest conversations and growth. Drawing from lived experience and real-world scenarios, it offers tools to foster psychological safety, repair trust, and build communities where people can learn, unlearn, and still belong.

Registration required.

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 13:30

Venue: G44, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Gallery Tour at the MERL: Curator-led Tours of the MERL Galleries

Curator of MERL Collections, Dr Ollie Douglas, will be joined by a specialist who will take visitors on a short conversational guided trip through the galleries approaching our collection from a different perspective that reflects the guest speaker’s expertise, ensuring you’ll learn something new every time.

Each tour will last about 45 minutes and will culminate in a pop-up display or an opportunity to peek behind the scenes. At the end of the session there’ll be a chance to ask questions and to chat with Ollie and his guest.

Booking Required.

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 11:30 - 12:30

Venue: The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, RG1 5EX

Price: FREE

 

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Housing Fair

Looking for housing at university next year? Not sure where to begin, or just want some extra support with housing?

Come along to our Housing Fair to meet local landlords, agents, student halls providers, and our Housing Advisor to get all the need-to-know information when it comes to renting in the local area. Plus, win huge prizes and freebies all day!

Date: Tuesday 14th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 15:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

 

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Stepping Back From The Brink: The Peace Not War Tour visits Reading

Part of Reading International Festival. Attend to listen to a panel of guest speakers who believe "Government policy puts Britain in danger of nuclear war and wastes vast sums of money on pointless military equipment".

Date: Monday 13th October 2025

Time: From 19:00

Venue: RISC, 35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS

Price: FREE

 

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RSU Hindu Society Event: Meet and Greet

A chance for society members to meet each other and find our more about the society and its activities. All of their events are inclusive, so you're welcome to bring friends! 

If you're not currently a member, but are interested in the society, stop by and speak to one of the committee members to find out more.

Date: Monday 13th October 2025

Time: 18:00 - 20:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, 230, Edith Morley Building, Whiteknights

 

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Stuart Hall Archive Project

n celebration of Black History Month 2025 and Standing Firm in Power and Pride, the School of Archaeology, Geography, and Environmental Science (SAGES) Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to a hybrid event. Dr Rita Gayle, University of Birmingham, will present the Stuart Hall Archive Project: Conjectures, Dialogues and Readings.

The event will be held online on Teams. Please use the following details:

  • Meeting ID: 399 544 445 275 1
  • Password: 3aG6Pu6m

Date: Monday 13th October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 14:00

Venue: ONLINE or Sorby Room, Wager Building, Whiteknights

 

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In Person Housing Talk

Want to know more about finding a house as a student? Not sure where to start? The come along to our Housing Talk with Housing Advisor.

Grab your FREE ticket to attend. Plus, FREE PIZZA for all attendees.

Date: Monday 13th October 2025

Time: 17:00 - 18:00

Venue: Flex, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

 

 

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Week 2

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The Sunset Sessions: Open Mic Night

Every second Sunday of the month, everyone is welcome! Musicians, magicians, drag acts and poets. Rappers and singers, songwriters and bands.

Unplugged and unhinged. Safe, open and welcoming to all! Not just an open mic. Come join in!

Date: Sunday 12th October 2025

Time: 19:00 - 22:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE

 

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Reading Abbey Tour

Come and discover the remains of Henry I's magnificent 12th century abbey which in its heyday was one of Europe's largest royal monasteries. Step back in time and uncover the rich history, the Abbey stood as a centre of power, learning, and spirituality. Now, its magnificent ruins whisper stories of royalty, rebellion, and resilience, waiting to be explored.

Date: Sunday 12th October 2025

Time: 10:00 – 11:00

Venue: Queen Victoria Statue, Reading Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH

Price: £9.00

 

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Soca Dance Classes

Join us to celebrate Black History month this October with soca dance classes at CultureMix Arts & Music Centre.

Bring your flag, your water bottle and get ready to practice your carnival dance moves to some Soca beats. This fun energetic dance class is combines keep fit routines with fabulous up tempo music.

Date: Saturday 11th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:00

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £6.50

 

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ARTISTS & MAKERS FAIR CAVERSHAM

This fair takes places every month on the second Saturday in the month. The aim of the fair is to showcase the work of artists and craftspeople from Caversham and the surrounding area.

They have an array of talented people who would love to talk to you about what they do. As well as tables full of handmade gifts for you to buy, they run 'make and take' taster sessions so you can 'have a go' at a craft you may not have tried before! There will be different activities suitable for both children and adults, happening each month.

Come and meet the artists and makers, view their work and maybe treat yourself, family and/or friends to something handmade and unique.

They also serve tea, coffee and homemade cake in their Lobby Café, with all proceeds from their drinks sales going to local charities.

Date: Saturday 11th October 2025 (Every Second Saturday of the Month)

Time: From 10:00

Venue: Caversham Methodist Church Hall, 272 Gosbrook Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8EB

Price: FREE Entry

 

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Poets' Café LIVE

Hosted by Vic Pickup & Katherine Meehan, Reading’s Poets’ Café LIVE brings the very best guests from around the UK alongside an open mic section for local poets to read their work in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Taking place on the 2nd Friday of every month, twenty open mic slots are available to seasoned poets and newcomers alike on a first-come-first-served basis. We welcome poets to read one A4 page or equivalent (approximately 2 minutes) of their best work.

All welcome. This session features Rehema Njami.

Date: Friday 10th October 2025

Time: From 20:00

Venue: South Street, 21 South Street, Reading, RG1 4QU

Price: £4.00 - £5.00

 

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Coffee, Crafts, and Community for World Mental Health Day

Join us for FREE coffee, tea, crafting, and games to unwind this World Mental Health Day. We are aiming to raise awareness and spotlight mental health around the world, as well as encouraging efforts to support your mental health.

Pop along and drop in to make a self care box, have a free tea or coffee - because your wellbeing matters. Meet Ella, your Welfare Officer, to find out more about who we are and what we do at the Students' Union to support your wellbeing and mental health.

Date: Friday 10th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 16:00

Venue: Flex, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Careers: Working in the UK

This session will explain the visa requirements & identify where to look for jobs within the UK and help you get ready to talk to employers at the upcoming job fairs.  This joint session between Careers and the International Student Advisory Team will showcase the information you need so as to manage your UK job search.

Date: Friday 10th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 13:00

Venue: Online

Price: FREE

 

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Black History Month Careers and Networking Fair

Do you need more support and want to connect more with industry professionals? Then come along to our Black History Month careers and networking fair! With career stalls, employers, workshops, talks, and performances led by Black students, staff, alumni, and local community members. With support from our student societies, Black Girls Space and Amnesty International, we're bringing you a day of information, networking, and performances!

Date: Friday 10th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 18:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: Blue Programme '25

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of thrilling adventure on the big screen!

The Banff Mountain Film Festival is back with a brand-new line-up of captivating short films packed with extreme journeys, intriguing characters and stunning cinematography. Join the world's top outdoor filmmakers and adventurers as they climb, ski, paddle, run and ride through the wildest corners of the planet!

With exciting nightly prize giveaways and a theatre packed with adventure lovers, this is an unmissable event from the world's most prestigious mountain festival. Spark your passion for adventure, action and travel at the Banff Mountain Film Festival!

This is a screening of the new Blue Film Programme 2025.

See www.banff-uk.com for more.

Date: Thursday 9th October 2025

Time: From 19:30

Venue: Hexagon, Queen's Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £19.00 / £16.50

 

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Careers: Finalist Afternoon

Join the careers team for a series of four workshops to help you navigate the graduate job market. Workshops will focus on CV and cover letter writing, and interview and presentation skills.

You can choose which workshops you attend via their website.

Date: Thursday 9th October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 16:30

Venue: Online

Price: FREE

 

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Home Away from Home: East Asia, Southeast Asia & Oceania

New to Reading? Come meet fellow students and enjoy a warm welcome with a taste of home!

This FREE event is designed especially for new international students from East Asia, Southeast Asia and Oceania.

There will be an authentic food buffet, a selection of drinks, music and games! Cultural dress is encouraged. Make friends, eat well, and start your journey at Reading with us!

Registration required - By invitation only. 

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 18:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Extended Welcome

Are you a late arriving student? Or perhaps weren't able to experience the fullness of Welcome. These Extended Welcome sessions aim to provide information, resources, with welcoming colleagues to Welcome you to the University. Crafts and light refreshments will also be available. Guided Tours at the Library will be running after the session.

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 14:30 - 15:30

Venue: Carrington Building 101, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Guided Walk of Reading

Come along to our FREE guided walks, led by our lovely current students! This is a great way to explore the local area, learn the route to walk to the town centre, discover a bit of the culture and history of Reading, and explore the local amenities.

You'll meet outside the Carrington Building at 14:00, then follow a scenic route to the town centre, via London Road Campus and the Abbey Ruins. Guides will stop at various interesting spots to share facts and answer questions before the tour ends in Forbury Gardens at 16:00.

Registration required.

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 16:00

Venue: Meet outside the Carrington building

Price: FREE

 

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Disability: Adjustments in recruitment and the workplace

Our Next Generation Inclusive University partnership with EmployAbility will start with a session focussed on empowering disabled and neurodivergent students to ask for the adjustments they need to ensure equity in recruitment and in the workplace. The session will give an overview of the Equality Act, the duty of the employer to provide the adjustments needed, and what constitutes a ‘reasonable’ adjustment. It is a safe environment to ask any questions, and learn more about how EmployAbility can support you.

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 16:00

Venue: Online

Price: FREE

 

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Behind the Scenes: Collection Tour

A guided tour of the Museum’s offsite store in Whitley, where most of the collections that are not on display are kept.

The tour will last about one hour. An experienced guide will point out highlights and there will also be an opportunity to handle some objects.

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 14:00 - 15:00

Venue: South Reading Store, Whitley, Reading

Price: £20.00 / £10.00

 

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On Your Bike Day!

Get set for everything cycling at our On Your Bike Day! Whether you’re a keen cyclist or just thinking about getting started, come along to Palmer Quad and make the most of free services, great deals, and expert advice:

  • Dr Bike - Free bike checks and basic repairs to keep your wheels in top shape.
  • UniCycle Bike Hire - Affordable bike rental for easy, sustainable travel around campus.
  • Big Bike Sale - Pick up a quality, recycled bike at a great price from our charity partner Recycle Your Cycle.
  • Thames Valley Police (TVP) - Free bike security marking and top tips to keep your bike safe.
  • UoR Security - Grab high-quality locks and lights at heavily subsidised prices.

Come along, save money, and get cycling with confidence!

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 14:00

Venue: Palmer Quad, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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RED Awards Drop in

This session is designed to help build a RED support community so whatever stage you are at on the pathway, please come along to meet the team, meet other students on the award scheme, and ask any questions you may have.

Date: Wednesday 8th October 2025

Time: 12:00 - 13:00

Venue: Global Study Lounge, Edith Morley 230, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

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Bingo Lingo Oktoberfest Special

Bingo has been taken, shaken, and turned it into one mad, confetti-filled, party-bingo night! This event is themes for Oktoberfest!

You'll be sat at a table with all of your friends playing bingo in a fast paced full club night environment to win prizes that are both amazing and amazing bad!

Its MAYHEM - all wild fun and nonsense for an enjoyable and memorable night!

Check them out on Instagram: @BingoLingo

Buy your tickets for Tuesday's session.

Date: Tuesday 7th October 2025

Time: 19:00 - 23:00

Venue: 3SIXTY, Reading Students' Union, Whiteknights

Price: £7.00 - £11.25

 

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Steel Band Workshop for Beginners

Join our Steel Band workshops and learn to play steel pan music with RASPO. Families, children, young people, all ages and abilities welcome.

Date: Tuesday 7th October 2025

Time: 17:30 - 18:30

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £10.00 / Free

 

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Craft at the Minster

Come and have a go at our “Craft of the Day” and enjoy the beauty, the space and the peace of the Minster.

All welcome!

Date: Tuesday 7th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:30

Venue: Reading Minster, St Mary's Butts, Reading, RG1 2LG

Price: FREE

 

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James Joyce: Enigmas and Puzzles

From 7th October until 9th February 2026, this exhibition from the University of Reading’s Special Collections shares never-before-seen personal papers of beloved author James Joyce from our Solange and Stephen James Joyce Collection.

Explore Joyce’s large social network of friends and artists, his family life as a loving father, and the inspirations for his work. Learn about the practical adjustments Joyce made to work despite his ill health, and view a selection of rare editions of books from Stephen Joyce’s library.

Date: Daily until 9th February

Time: Museum opening hours

Venue: The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5EX

Price: FREE

 

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Ready for RIS: Information Session

Are you looking for paid work experience, and the chance to develop your transferable skills?

Then the Reading Internship Scheme could be for you! The scheme is exclusive to University of Reading undergraduate students and gives you the opportunity to undertake short-term paid internships with external organisations or even University of Reading departments! The scheme runs flexibly throughout the year - you can do an internship part-time during the semester or full-time during vacation periods.

Date: Monday 6th October 2025

Time: 13:00 - 13:50

Venue: Given on registration

Price: FREE

 

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Week 1

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Readifolk Singers' Night

A singers night is a friendly informal gathering where you, the audience provide the entertainment. Everyone has a chance to perform - a song, a tune, a poem, a story or a joke.

All standards, genres, and cultures are acceptable and you can, of course just sit back and be entertained by others if you wish. You will all get a warm welcome.

Date: Sunday 5th October 2025

Time: From 20:00

Venue: The Community Hall, Watlington House, 44 Watlington Street, RG1 4RJ

Price: £3.00 on the door

 

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Dreading Poetry Slam

Dreading Slam is a friendly open mic poetry competition. Poets compete against each other by connecting with the audience and impressing the randomly selected judges with their work.

You're welcome to come along to watch or to participate! If you wish to take part, please bring 3 poems of your own work (up to a maximum of 3 minutes in length) and make yourself known to the organisers.

Dreading Slam welcomes poets of all standards along with those who wish to join the audience for an evening of live poetry.

The events also includes fun 'Quick Fire' and 'Reading' events on the night. More information on the website.

Date: Sunday 5th October 2025

Time: 19:30 - 22:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE Entry

 

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Autumn Concert 2025

West Forest Sinfonia are delighted to welcome back Rachel Siu as guest soloist in Kabelevsky’s second ‘cello concerto, and Principal Conductor Philip Ellis in this first concert of the new season. A selection of movements from Khachaturian’s Spartacus Suites and Prokofiev’s Symphony number 6 complete this thrilling programme.

Date: Sunday 5th October 2025

Time: From 16:30

Venue: Great Hall Reading University, London Road, Reading, RG1 5AG

Price: £5.00 students

 

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David Olusoga: History's Missing Chapters

For the first time in Reading and in a brand-new talk for 2025, David examines some of history’s missing chapters to uncover how and why some events and some people are remembered and others forgotten. Taking examples from the world wars, the Industrial revolution and other pivotal moments in global history David uncovers history’s missing persons. 

Date: Saturday 4th October 2025

Time: From 19:00

Venue: Reading Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH

Price: £31.50

 

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Rising Sun Art Market

Join us every First Saturday of the month as we showcase the incredible talents of local artists and creators.

Discover one-of-a-kind artworks, handmade crafts, and unique designs.

Stalls vary each month, but expect to find prints, knitwear, jewellery, art books and more - something for everyone to admire and take home.

Free entry, and cafe open selling home-made cakes.

Date: Saturday 4th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 16:00

Venue: The Rising Sun Arts Centre, 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST.

Price: FREE Entry

 

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Soca Dance Classes

Join us to celebrate Black History month this October with soca dance classes at CultureMix Arts & Music Centre.

Bring your flag, your water bottle and get ready to practice your carnival dance moves to some Soca beats. This fun energetic dance class is combines keep fit routines with fabulous up tempo music.

Date: Saturday 4th October 2025

Time: 11:00 - 12:00

Venue: CultureMix Arts, 7 Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7QF

Price: £6.50

 

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Reading Farmers' Market

Come and browse local food, drink and more and buy directly from the producers at our local farmers' market, named Best Food Market in the Great British Market Awards 2020.

You can expect to find fresh fruit, veg and mushrooms, high welfare meat, fish and eggs, cheese, honey, baked goods, doughnuts, fudge, cider, beer and natural skincare.

Follow the market on Facebook or sign up for the newsletter for details of the line-up of traders each time.

Date: Saturday 4th October 2025

Time: 08:15 – 12:00

Venue: Cattle Market, Great Knollys Street, Reading, RG1 7HU

Price: FREE

 

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Home Away from Home:China

New to Reading? Come meet fellow students and enjoy a warm welcome with a taste of home!

This FREE event is designed especially for new international students from China.

There will be a regionally-themed food buffet, a selection of drinks, music and games! Cultural dress is encouraged. Make friends, eat well, and start your journey at Reading with us!

Registration required - By invitation only. 

Date: Wednesday 1st October 2025

Time: 16:00 - 18:00

Venue: Eat at the Square, Whiteknights

Price: FREE

 

 

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Welcome Week

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[COMING SOON] Watch this space for events happening during Welcome Week 2025! 

 

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