2026 event schedule

Margate - 1st & 2nd July 2026

Be part of the conversation.

Key times and dates for 2026

Wednesday 1st July - Get inspired, get involved!

Full schedule of events starting from 15:30, hosted at iconic venues across Margate including; welcome drinks at the Sea Shed, the hotly contested UKCF Sandcastle competition, Graham Fink's TheArtSchool, Creative Town Hall special at the Turner Contemporary + much more TBA. Day 1 ends with our official opening party, grab a cocktail and enjoy the spectacular sunset sea views.

Thursday 2nd July - Ideas. Inspiration. Impact.

Ease into the day with a variety of wellness activities including our seafront saunas, before taking on a full schedule of events hosted at Dreamland from 09:30. The day includes a jam packed schedule of thought-provoking talks, workshops, our Creative Careers Fair, Creative Circle Talent Awards, live music, networking and cocktail drinking opportunities + much more.

Plus:

One of the highlights of the two days, the Creative Circle Awards - welcome drinks at 18:00, awards 18:30 to 22:30 followed by the official Creative Circle afterparty - entry to awards requires a Creative Circle Awards ticket.

Immerse yourself in two days of unmissable content.

Wed 1st July

Welcome Drinks at the Beach Huts

TheArtSchool hosted by Graham Fink

The Margate Drop

UKCF Sand Castle Competition

Networking opportunities to fuel creativity

Drop-in Cold Plunge & Sauna

Creative Town Hall

UKCF official dinner at Faith In Strangers

UKCF Official Opening Summer Party

Thus 2nd July

Morning Wellness Programme

Best of British Creativity Exhibition

Hall By The Sea - Big stage. Big questions

The Ballroom - Where ideas meet reality

Beach Huts - hands-on experiences

Creative Careers Fair

Live Music From The The Busking Stage

New Talent & Short Film Awards

Off The Record - Meet & Mingle In The Pub

Creative Circle Awards Welcome Drinks

Creative Circle Awards

Creative Circle Awards Afterparty

Full schedule coming soon.

Find out what's on in 2026 here

WHAT'S ON

Filter by day

Wed 1stThurs 2nd

Location

around Margateat Dreamland

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

TheArtSchool with Graham Fink

Wed 1st

14:00 - 1700

Ballroom

at Dreamland

After 15 years underground, Graham Fink’s iconic anti-school is back for a second time. Led by Graham Fink with special guests, the power houses Vicki Maguire and Rory Sutherland all legendary figure in advertising and creative spheres. This session is all about challenging your thinking, sparking new ideas, and giving young creatives the tools to stand out. Join Graham and his guests for an afternoon of insight, inspiration, and no‑nonsense advice — the perfect boost for anyone ready to take their creative career to the next level. No syllabus. No sugarcoating. Just real talk, raw skills, and surprise industry legends dropping the kind of advice you won’t find in textbooks.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Host: Graham Fink. Special guests Vicki Maguire & Rory Sutherland.

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Collect your accreditation

Wed 1st

15:00 - 17:00

Sea Shed

around Margate

Pick up your accreditation when you arrive, a short walk from the train station. Need to buy a pass or upgrade? Someone will be here to answer your questions.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: The UK Creative Festival

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint

The Margate Drop - Kick of the Festival in style

Wed 1st

15:00 - 18:00

Sea Shed

around Margate

Set against the iconic Margate seafront, The Margate Drop brings the creative community together to kick off the festival, connect with fellow attendees, and enjoy the unique seaside energy that makes UKCF special. Grab a cocktail, soak up the atmosphere and meet other delegates as we launch into two days of inspiration, connection and creative exchange.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint

Sandcastle Comp

Wed 1st

16:00 -17:30

Sea Shed

around Margate

Run by the boundary-pushing team at Plunge Creations and powered by Out of Home at the Bauer Media Group, this is not your average special build. Think ambitious structures, unexpected concepts, and full-on creative showdowns—all crafted from nothing but sand, water, and raw imagination. Whether you’re an agency squad, a brand collective, or just a group of mates with something to prove, this is your chance to get hands-on and make something unforgettable.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint

18+

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Drop In Cold Plunge & Sauna

Wed 1st

16:30 - 18:30

Main Sands Sauna

around Margate

Wind down and enjoy the cold plunge and sauna facilities with stunning sea views.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: Sea Scrub Sauna Margate

Ticket type:

Awards, Careers Fair, Festival, Joint

The Footie at Cinq Ports

Wed 1st

17:00

Cinque Ports

around Margate

Join us at Cinq Ports for kick-off, just 30 seconds from the beach to bar (right next door to Dreamland). Grab a seat, get loud and cheer England on with fellow festival-goers.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Careers Fair, Festival, Joint

Hosted by: The UK Creative Festival

18+

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair, Awards

Steak & Frites Night at the Opening Party

Wed 1st

18:30 - 20:30

Faith In Strangers

around Margate

Enjoy dinner at Faith In Strangers — an evening designed to slow things down, share great food and make meaningful connections - DINNER BOOKING REQUIRED

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair, Awards

Hosts: The UK Creative Festival

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint

Creative Town Hall

Wed 1st

18:30 - 20:30

Turner Contemporary

around Margate

The Creative Town Hall returns to Margate on a mission to talk about how we can - and should - be using our creativity to transform places, communities and industries. This is bigger than a poster, folks. And it's thinking beyond the M25. This is transforming our culture. Doors: 18:30 Opening drinks: 18:30 - 19:00 Sessions: 19:00 - 20:15 Post session drinks: 20:15 - 21:15

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint

Emma Jones, Small Business Commissioner, Department of Business and Trade (Chair)
Rory Sutherland, Author, speaker and Vice Chairman, Ogilvy UK
Louise Brooks, Founder and Exec Director, Ramsgate Space
Dan Richards, Founder, A+C Studios, Margate
Lorraine Cox, Director, Creative Estuary

18+

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair, Awards

UKCF Summer Party

Wed 1st

20:30 - 00:30

Faith In Strangers

around Margate

Let loose and mingle at the legendary, official UKCF opening party at Faith & Strangers

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair, Awards

18+

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Yoga - Morning Movement

Thurs 2nd

07:30 - 08:30

Main Sands Sauna

around Margate

Begin the day with an hour of beachside yoga and pranayama, awakening the body and breath as the morning light rises over the water.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

18+

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Drop In Cold Plunge & Sauna

Thurs 2nd

08:30 - 09:30

Main Sands Sauna

around Margate

Cold plunge and sauna — a contrast that boosts circulation, restores balance and grounds the practice.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: Sea Scrub Sauna Margate

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Doors open

Thurs 2nd

09:30

All venues

at Dreamland

Join us at Dreamland as our day kicks off.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: The UK Creative Festival

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Building Creative Futures: In partnership with Kent County Council's Culture & Creative Economy Service

Thurs 2nd

09:30 - 11:15

Ballroom

at Dreamland

If we were designing Kent's creative talent pipeline from scratch in 2026, what would we do differently? The creative industries are one of the UK's fastest-growing sectors, yet businesses across Kent continue to face challenges finding the talent, skills and experience they need to grow. At the same time, many young people remain unaware of the breadth of creative careers available to them, or the routes into them. Hosted by UK Creative Festival in partnership with Kent County Council, Building Creative Futures brings together creative employers, educators, industry bodies, local authorities and policymakers for a practical conversation about the future of creative skills in Kent. Through a series of short provocations and facilitated roundtable discussions, we'll explore how we can create stronger pathways into the sector, better align education with industry needs, and ensure creative talent can build successful careers within the region. Together, we'll identify a series of practical recommendations to help shape future skills provision, industry engagement and workforce development across Kent. Please note: this is not an open panel discussion. It is a working session designed to generate ideas, share experiences and develop practical solutions that can help inform future skills planning.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

(Invitational Roundtable)

Ticket type:

Careers Fair, Festival, Joint, Awards

The Best of British Exhibition

Thurs 2nd

09:30 - 16:00

Dreamlands

at Dreamland

The Best of British Creativity Exhibition, hosted by the UK Creative Festival, is a showcase of the UK’s most outstanding creative work. Featuring highlights from the Creative Circle Awards 2026 shortlist, alongside the prestigious Gold of Gold winner and the winning work from 2025’s Most Creative Company winners.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Careers Fair, Festival, Joint, Awards

Brought to you by the UK Creative Festival and Creative Circle

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Don’t Be A Dick . . . and You’ll Be Alright

Thurs 2nd

10:00 - 10:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

Creative careers rarely follow a straight line. In this honest and personal session, Tobias Donohoe, founder of TPD Creative, shares the mistakes, setbacks and unexpected decisions that shaped his un-straight path to building an agency in Kent. Attendees will hear what creativity really means, why imagination is only the starting point and how patience, problem solving and persistence turn ideas into something real. The session will also cover carving your own lane, committing fully to your decisions, becoming memorable without pretending to be someone else and why treating people well may be one of your greatest professional advantages. The workshop will combine personal stories, practical lessons and audience reflection, ending with a short interactive exercise. Expect honesty, useful takeaways and absolutely no magic success formula.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Tobias Donohoe, Director, TPD Creative

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Inside 4Creative: Creative Office Hours

Thurs 2nd

10:00 - 15:00

Careers Fair

at Dreamland

Got a portfolio, campaign idea, film concept, social channel, script, design project or creative challenge you’re working on? Bring it along. For one day only, the team behind Channel 4’s award-winning in-house creative agency, 4Creative, are opening the doors to offer informal advice, feedback and encouragement to the next generation of creative talent. Find us in the Careers Fair for a one-to-one review slot with a member of the team and get honest, constructive feedback on your work, alongside practical advice on building a career in the creative industries. Whether you’re a designer, filmmaker, writer, strategist, creator or simply curious about creative careers, this is a rare opportunity to get direct access to the people shaping some of the UK’s most talked-about creative work. Bring your work. Bring your questions. Leave with fresh ideas and practical next steps.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
4Creative

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Careers Fair

Thurs 2nd

10:00 - 16:30

Roller Disco

at Dreamland

Kick start or turbo charge your creative career in 2026, meet leading companies from across the creative industries and take part in expertly run workshops and Q&A sessions. This is your 'not-to-be-missed' opportunity to meet and network with the UK creative scene.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Brought to you by Global Media & Entertainment, and hosts and speakers from across the creative industries.

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Fast-Track Your Creative Career

Thurs 2nd

11:00 - 11:45

Beach Hut 4

at Dreamland

In this interactive 40-minute session, Ryan Grist shares lessons from nearly 30 years in the creative industry, from his early days in graphic design to building brands, running creative businesses, and founding Swwwift, a community supporting graphic designers across the UK. Ryan will offer an honest look at the successes, setbacks, and unexpected turns that have shaped his career, highlighting why there is rarely a single route into the creative industries. Attendees will take part in a practical exercise exploring their own knowledge, interests, and strengths. By identifying the subjects they know most about and care most deeply about, participants will discover how the overlap between passion and expertise can help reveal potential career paths and areas of specialism. The session concludes with audience discussion and shared reflections, offering inspiration and fresh perspectives from others in the room. Key takeaways: •Creative careers are rarely linear. •How to identify your strengths and interests. •Turning passions into career opportunities. •Building confidence and clarity about your next steps. Best suited to: Young people interested in graphic design or exploring future career options.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by: Ryan Grist, Founder, Swwwift

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
So you want to… make a difference with your creativity?

Thurs 2nd

11:00 - 11:45

Beach Hut 3

at Dreamland

Healthcare advertising might not be the first industry that comes to mind when you think about creative careers, but it should be. Every day, creative thinkers, strategists, writers, designers, filmmakers, account managers and problem-solvers help bring life-changing medicines, treatments and health innovations to the people who need them most. Join the team from Olixir, part of Omnicom Health, for a workshop exploring the world of healthcare advertising and the many different routes into the industry. Through creative challenges, real-life campaign examples and insights from people working across the business, you'll discover why great healthcare communications need all sorts of thinkers, makers and doers. You'll also get an introduction to IGNITE, our internship programme designed to help people from all backgrounds kick-start their careers in healthcare communications. This session will show you how your skills could make a real impact, because healthcare advertising isn't just for one type of person. It takes all sorts.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Thomas James and Imogen Blake

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Fight your Creative Demon. No, really, using AI.

Thurs 2nd

11:00 - 11:45

Beach Hut 1

at Dreamland

Every creative person has a demon: writer’s block, self-doubt, the blank page, the fear of getting it wrong, or that annoying little voice that says, “I’m not creative.” Run by creative tech agency Pogo, this hands-on workshop is a fun, fast-paced experience where attendees will turn one of those creative blockers into a plasticine monster, then use AI to bring it to life with a name, voice, personality, backstory and ridiculous battle powers. But they won’t be fighting it alone. Participants will also create an AI-powered hero version of themselves, complete with their own strengths, style and special moves, ready to take on the monster they’ve made. Working individually or in small groups, attendees will sculpt, design, prompt and play their way through a fast-paced creative challenge where their AI hero battles their creative demon and wins. No technical experience is needed. The session is practical, playful and accessible, giving attendees a glimpse into how AI can be used for character design, storytelling, world-building and interactive experiences. They’ll leave with a monster they made, a heroic version of themselves, a better understanding of creative technology, and hopefully a little more confidence to take on the blank page.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Art Tindsley, Founder, Pogo Creative
Dan Whitney, Commercial Director, Pogo Creative

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Think in Ink

Thurs 2nd

11:00 - 11:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

With Eureka Creativity. Screens are brilliant. They're also quietly screwing with your ability to think deeply, remember things and come up with genuinely original ideas. According to neuroscience our brains respond to physical stimulus differently to digital screens, for creative thinking, that difference really matters. In this practical one-hour workshop, creative thinking coach and Eureka founder Ketan Lad will show you why going analogue isn't just retro, it's one of the most powerful things you can do to unlock clearer thinking, stronger intuition and better ideas. Expect to put your phone down, pick up a pen and put it to paper. Through a mix of short provocations and practical exercises, you'll leave with ink on your fingers, new ideas and habits made for the creative process worth keeping.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Ketan Lad, Founder & Creative Thinker, Eureka Creativity

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Welcome

Thurs 2nd

11:30 - 11:40

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

UK Creative Festival founder Dina Green and Polly Billington MP, Member of Parliament for East Thanet, open the second day of the festival with a welcome to Dreamland and a reflection on the conversations, ideas and momentum already building across Margate. Setting the scene for the day ahead, this opening moment explores the role creativity plays in shaping culture, community and the future of the UK’s creative industries - while welcoming attendees back for another day of bold ideas, honest conversations and unexpected connections.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speakers:
Dina Green, Founder, UK Creative Festival
Polly Billington, MP for East Thanet

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

The Creative State We’re In

Thurs 2nd

11:40 - 11:50

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

Britain’s creative industries are not a nice-to-have - they are one of the country’s greatest national assets. Setting the scene for our the Hall by the Sea programme, Sir Chris Bryant sets out why creativity matters to the UK’s economy, identity, soft power and global competitiveness - and why backing creative people, businesses and ideas has never been more urgent. At a time of rapid technological change, economic pressure and international competition, this opening address asks what it will take to keep Britain creatively ambitious, commercially confident and culturally relevant. A call to value creativity not just as an industry, but as a national advantage - and to recognise that the future belongs to the people willing to build it.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speaker:
Sir Chris Bryant, Minister for Trade, Department of Business and Trade

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

The Diversity Impact: Celebrating Inclusive Practice Across the Industry

Thurs 2nd

11:45 - 12:15

Ballroom

at Dreamland

The APA, Shiny and TRS officially launch The Diversity Impact at UK Creative Festival - a new initiative designed to celebrate the brands, agencies and production companies continuing to put inclusive values into practice. At a time when conversations around purpose and diversity can too often become negative, defensive or fatigued, The Diversity Impact aims to shift the focus towards practical progress and positive examples of work being done well. This session will explore what inclusive practice looks like in real terms, both in front of and behind the camera, and how teams can operationalise inclusion across their processes, partnerships and productions. Participants will also be taken through useful resources, including the APA To Do List, before learning how to submit work into The Diversity Impact. Designed for agency teams, production companies and brand-side practitioners, this is a practical introduction to a new industry movement recognising those who are staying true to their values and helping build a more inclusive creative sector.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted By:
Traci Dunne, Founder, Transform-Renew-Sustain (TRS) Ltd
Charlotte Fraser, Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, APA
Caroline Bottomley, MD/Founder, The Shiny Awards

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Sound the Alarm

Thurs 2nd

11:50 - 11:55

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

This is not the time to be still and let our creative spark die. We have to keep showing up, because that is what we do, that is who we are.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Performer:
Shaniqua Benjamin, Writer, Poet & Facilitator

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

WTF is happening to UK creativity?

Thurs 2nd

11:55 - 12:35

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

British creativity has shaped global culture for decades - but in 2026, many are questioning whether the industry has lost some of its edge. As algorithms, risk-aversion, economic pressure and AI reshape the creative landscape, has UK creativity become too safe, too polished and too commercially cautious? Or are we simply entering a new era with different rules, audiences and opportunities? Bringing together some of the UK’s most provocative voices from advertising, media and culture, this conversation explores the tensions, contradictions and opportunities shaping the industry right now. Expect strong opinions, uncomfortable questions and very few easy answers.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Leah Brown FRSA, Founder & CEO, The Wayfinders Group
Guests:
Nokuthula Hatoongo, Founder & Director, Kintsugi Creative
Graham Fink, Creative Director & Multimedia Artist
Laura JB, Founder and CCO, Unchartered
Miketta Lane, Director, 4Creative

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop: Buckle up to ride your VFX Career Journey to be a Jedi

Thurs 2nd

12:00 - 12:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

New to VFX and its fulfilling career paths? You are all invited to join my workshop to deep dive into what it takes to become a VFX Jedi Master at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) to create iconic characters like BB8. You will be inspired to build your career path to work on your favourite films, episodics, and immersive projects. Come with your VFX questions and walk away with Jedi computer graphics knowledge!

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Davi Stein, VFX Trainer, Industrial Light & Magic

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
So you want to....Produce Music for Film & TV

Thurs 2nd

12:00 - 12:45

Beach Hut 1

at Dreamland

Love music and film but not sure how to turn that passion into a career? Emily Richardson (credits including Love Is Blind, Barbie and Supergirl) joins UKCF for a behind-the-scenes look at the world of music supervision. From unforgettable soundtrack moments to original scores, Emily will reveal how music is discovered, commissioned, cleared and matched to picture. Drawing on her experience across film and television, she’ll explore the role of a music supervisor, the skills needed to succeed, and the different routes into the industry. Ideal for musicians, composers and music lovers alike, this session offers practical insight into building a creative career at the intersection of music and screen.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Lorna Hall, Senior Music Supervisor, Lala Music
Emily Richardson, Executive Creative Director, Lala Music

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Inside Creative Advertising: From Portfolio to Agency (and the things we wish i've known earlier!)

Thurs 2nd

12:00 - 12:45

Beach Hut 4

at Dreamland

This session offers an inside look at what it’s really like working as a creative in advertising day to day. We’ll break down the role of an art director and copywriter, what we actually do in agency life, and how ideas move from brief to finished campaign. You’ll also get practical advice on how to break into the creative advertising industry, from building a strong portfolio to understanding what agencies look for when hiring. We will show real examples from our work, honest insights into the industry, and space to ask questions throughout. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your portfolio, you’ll leave with clear, actionable tips and a better understanding of how to get into advertising.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Aishah Siddique, Creative, Mother London
Anisa Abdurahman, Creative, Mother London

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop: Music Supervision for Advertising

Thurs 2nd

12:00 - 12:45

Beach Hut 3

at Dreamland

Music has a huge impact on how adverts are perceived, but how do you find the right track, and what does “right” even mean? In this session, we will explore the role of music supervision in advertising, from creative strategy and storytelling to briefs, searches, licensing and unexpected music choices. We’ll look at how music can shift tone, shape emotion and completely change the viewer’s experience. The session will also include a short interactive workshop, where attendees can suggest tracks against an ad, to see first-hand how different music choices transform the story.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Ethan Odle and Fred Ashworth, Native Music

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Beyond The Agency:
What It Takes To Work Client Direct

Thurs 2nd

12:15 - 13:00

Ballroom

at Dreamland

More production companies are building direct relationships with brands - but winning client-direct work requires far more than creative excellence alone. Bringing together leaders from across production, strategy and creative operations, this session explores how studios and production companies are adapting to changing client expectations, faster workflows and increasingly integrated creative partnerships. Through practical case studies and candid discussion, attendees will gain insight into business development, commercial strategy, account management and the operational realities of working directly with clients in 2026.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speakers:
Steve Davies, CEO, APA (chair)
Anissa Payne, Executive Producer, NM Productions
Ben Ingle, Business Director, Stink Studios
Chris O'Reilly, Co-founder and CCO Nexus

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Challenge Produces Diamonds

Thurs 2nd

12:50 - 12:55

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

We make it happen, because that is what we do. We know there is always more to come

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Performer:
Shaniqua Benjamin, Writer, Poet & Facilitator

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Designing Worlds: where the future of creativity is being built

Thurs 2nd

12:55 - 13:35

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

The boundaries between entertainment, gaming, design, technology and physical experience are collapsing - and new creative worlds are emerging in their place. Bringing together creatives working across immersive storytelling, digital environments, live experiences and cinematic worldbuilding, this fast-paced showcase explores the people building the future of creative culture in real time. Expect rapid demos, visual showcases and big creative thinking from the edges of film, games, performance, AI and experiential design.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speakers:
Matt Sweet, GM Creative, ElevenLabs (chair)
Art Tindsley, Founder, Pogo Ltd
Annabel Dewar, CCO, The Gang
Chris O'Reilly, Co-founder & CCO, Nexus Studios

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
So you want to....be a Visual Merchandiser, Consultant or Stylist?

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 13:45

Beach Hut 3

at Dreamland

Ever wondered who designs department store windows, in-store displays and brand experiences? This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, from window schemes and mannequin styling to pop-ups, events, photoshoots and retail activations. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience working with brands including Selfridges, Mulberry, Fendi and Burberry, Barbara will share her career journey, showcase a diverse portfolio of work, and explore the many creative roles and pathways into the industry. Expect practical advice, industry insight and plenty of inspiration for aspiring creatives.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Barbara Chapman, Visual Merchandiser

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
So You Want to Be a YouTuber?

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 13:45

Beach Hut 4

at Dreamland

So you want to be a YouTuber? At 16, Will Lindsay-Perez started a production company at school and was told there was no money in creative work. He dropped out of university, to follow Dragons Den Start Steven Bartlett, filming Steven's life for three years on Behind The Diary. In 2 years they did 400,000 subscribers and over 10 million views. In this session, Will shares the real story behind the highlight reel: how a creative career actually gets built, why storytelling is about making people feel something rather than just know it, and what it means to treat creativity as an identity, not a hobby. Expect his journey, the lessons that don't make the edit, practical routes in, and plenty of time for your questions. You'll leave with fewer excuses, a sharper eye, and a clearer idea of where to start!!

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Will Perez, Steven Bartlett's Lead Filmmaker, Editor & Photographer

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop: Jedi VFX mastery in storytelling

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 13:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Davi Stein, VFX Trainer, Industrial Light & Magic

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop: Producers! Diversify Your New Director Contacts. Directors! Get on Producers’ Radars.

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 13:45

Beach Hut 1

at Dreamland

How do producers find exciting new directing talent beyond the usual networks - and how do emerging directors make sure the right people can find them? This practical workshop is designed for production companies, agency and in-house producers looking to diversify their new director lists, as well as up-and-coming directors who want to get onto producers’ radars. Together, we’ll explore where people are currently finding new talent, what makes a director stand out, and how producers can dig deeper when building more representative talent lists. The session will include a group brainstorm, a look at different routes into discovering diverse new work, and a short tour of the Shiny List as a useful starting point. Expect honest discussion, shared resources and practical ideas for building stronger connections between producers and the next wave of directing talent.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Caroline Bottomley, MD/Founder, The Shiny Awards

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

New Talent & Short Film Awards

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 14:00

Dodgems

at Dreamland

Connect with industry peers, future collaborators and creative minds and celebrate the rising stars who are redefining the creative landscape.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: The Creative Circle

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Lunch

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 14:00

Various catering

at Dreamland

Refuel ahead of more exciting content

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Grab yourself a bite to eat from various food trucks including T’s Tacos, Sunshine in Every Bite and Birdie Macs, Fried Chicken That Rules the Roost! All servered within Dreamland.

Ticket type:

Careers Fair, Festival, Joint

The Busking Stage

Thurs 2nd

13:00 - 16:00

Dreamlands

at Dreamland

Follow the music and discover something new at the UK Creative Festival’s buzzing Busking Stage. Acts will be popping up throughout the day on Thursday 2 July. Programmed by Jit Exotic, a true local hero on the music scene, this stage is all about shining a spotlight on talented local young people ready to share their sound and take the mic. Soak up the vibes, cheer them on, and you might just catch the next big thing before everyone else does.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Careers Fair, Festival, Joint

Programmed by Jit Exotic

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

How Creative Businesses actually Scale

Thurs 2nd

13:15 - 14:00

Ballroom

at Dreamland

Growing a creative business is often talked about - but rarely unpacked honestly. From hiring and pricing to cashflow, partnerships, export and sustainable growth, scaling a creative company brings challenges many founders are forced to figure out in real time. Bringing together founders, finance experts and business leaders from across the creative industries, this session explores what it actually takes to grow beyond survival mode without losing the creative thinking that made the business successful in the first place. Expect practical insight around operational growth, investment and finance, founder mindset, audience shifts and the common mistakes creative businesses make when trying to scale.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speakers:
Louise Brooks, Founder & Exec Director, Ramsgate Space (chair)
Georgina Wilson-Powell, Founder, Don't Miss Media Group
Rupert Reynolds-Maclean, MD, Biscuit Filmworks
Nick Simmons, Investment Portfolio Manager, Creative UK

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

The Sound of Culture: Turning stories into moments

Thurs 2nd

13:35 - 14:15

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

A song. A costume. A visual world. A design choice. A creative idea. The moments that stay with us are rarely created by a single discipline. They're built through a series of creative decisions that work together to create something people genuinely remember. From music and live performance to advertising, television, film and immersive storytelling, this session brings together creative leaders from across the industry to explore how cultural moments are made — and why some endure long after the campaign, production or broadcast has ended. Through stories, examples and behind-the-scenes insight, we'll unpack the creative choices that transform work from something audiences simply consume into something they talk about, share and remember.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speakers: Announced Soon

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop: You know you like photography – but how can you make a career out of it?

Thurs 2nd

14:00 - 14:45

Beach Hut 4

at Dreamland

Join Madeleine Penny (Managing Agent, At Trayler) and Skye Trayler (Co-Founder & Commercial Director, At Rare) for a behind-the-curtains style workshop. We’ll be introducing some of the lesser known jobs that exist within the fringes of commercial photography - including what it’s like working as artists' agents, creative producers, photo editors, art buyers, and curators. This safe space is ideal for open questions as we break down the necessary skills, required experience, and expected salaries for each path. Turn your passion for visual storytelling into a rewarding creative career.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Mads Penny & Skye Trayler, At Collective

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Understanding the different types of ideas.

Thurs 2nd

14:00 - 14:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

Mike Nicholson’s Masterclass enables anyone interested in working in the creative industries to understand all the different ideas you can make. Ones with commercial value that by the end of the Masterclass will give attendees clarity on a direction they can take to boost their career with confidence.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Mike Nicholson, Professional Mentor / ECD at the School of Communication Arts 2.0

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
The Hijinks Creativity Bootcamp

Thurs 2nd

14:00 - 14:45

Beach Hut 3

at Dreamland

Forget burpees. This is your go-to summer bootcamp to get those gains, for your brain ;) Creativity is a muscle; the more you flex it, the more toned it will get. We’ll kick things off by stretching presumptions of what it means to be creative, getting those idea-making muscles firing in different ways. For the main workout, our attendees will be set a mini brief, pairing a big brand with a positive cultural hot take, turning this into a campaign that puts more of what people are craving into the world. Think optimism, connection and a heavy lifting of creative mischief. At Hijinks, we’re all about ‘Positivity Through Creativity’ and we’re determined to push more reps. During our cool-down, we’ll share the benefits of exercising a creative career. Don’t panic, no PB’s required and there’s zero risk of pulling a hamstring. Bring your brain and get ready to train.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Tamara Walbourn and Maddie Harper

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop:
Have you got the Next Big Hit? Developing Killer Entertainment Ideas

Thurs 2nd

14:00 - 14:45

Beach Hut 1

at Dreamland

Ever wondered how a simple idea becomes an international reality show, hit documentary, or viral social format? Join Lemonade Labs for an exciting interactive workshop. You’ll discover the inner workings of TV and branded entertainment - learning exactly how concepts get developed, commissioned, and put on screen. The session is highly collaborative: after mastering the industry basics, you’ll team up with fellow participants to brainstorm your own 'next big hit.' You'll then pitch your concept to the group for real-time feedback. Bring your biggest ideas; the world’s next killer format starts here.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Connor McRae, Head of Branded Entertainment, Lemonade Labs
Corin West, Founder/MD, Lemonade Labs

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

You are not Invisible

Thurs 2nd

14:30 - 14:35

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

I see you, still going, still chasing, still making, still brainstorming. The world still needs you.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Performer:
Shaniqua Benjamin, Writer, Poet & Facilitator

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

The Creator Economy:
What Creative Businesses Need to Understand Now

Thurs 2nd

14:30 - 15:15

Ballroom

at Dreamland

The creator economy is no longer sitting outside the creative industries - it is reshaping them from within. This session explores how creators, platforms, brands and agencies are colliding inside an increasingly attention-driven world, and what that means for creative businesses trying to remain commercially relevant. From audience building and platform strategy to sustainable revenue models and brand partnerships, expect practical insight into how creators operate as modern creative businesses - and what traditional creative industries can learn from them.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Anna Cronin, Digital Advisor, Strategy & Growth Consultant, Programme Lead, YouTube’s up-skill programmes in partnership with NFTS & BBC
Guests:
Cassie Hughes, GeekyCassie, Director NoxLumina
Will Perez, Steven Bartlett's Lead Filmmaker, Editor & Photographer
Emma Lines, UK’s Number 1 Wheelchair - Using Model, Content Creator and Disability Advocate
Jade Raad, Chief Growth Officer, Jungle Creations

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Earning Attention: the future belongs to the creatively fearless

Thurs 2nd

14:35 - 15:15

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

*This session contains discussion of alcohol use, hangovers, and drinking culture. Recommended for ages 16+* In a world of infinite content, attention has become the most valuable currency in creativity. This rapid-fire showcase unpacks the ideas, campaigns and creative risks that genuinely cut through - across outdoor, culture, live experience, social platforms and public space. From headline-grabbing executions to unexpected creative moves, these are the projects that got noticed, talked about and shared - introduced by the people willing to push further, stay uncomfortable and make work impossible to ignore. Because the future belongs to the creatively fearless.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Anto Chioccarelli, Director, Creative Outdoor, Global
Featuring:
James Hodson & Jason Keet, Creative Directors, Leo Burnett
Freddy Taylor & Philippa Beaumont, Group Creative Directors, Wieden+Kennedy
Giulia Ferrarezi, Creative Director, BBH

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Workshop (for working professionals): It starts with a poster

Thurs 2nd

15:00 - 15:45

Beach Hut 2

at Dreamland

Whatever creative project you are working on, nailing a brilliant poster gives clarity and tone. It helps communicate and promote whatever it is you are trying to achieve. Forming the perfect springboard for further thinking to build from. Mike Nicholson’s Masterclass enables attendees to understand how to come up with and craft World-Class ones. Giving them the skills and confidence to make great creative work fearlessly.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Mike Nicholson, Professional Mentor / ECD at the School of Communication Arts 2.0

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Creative Collision: what happens when creative worlds collide

Thurs 2nd

15:15 - 15:50

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

Some of the most interesting creative work happens when different disciplines, industries and people collide unexpectedly. Born from conversations and connections made at UK Creative Festival itself, this session explores how creatives, technologists, strategists and artists transformed an idea into a cross-disciplinary project spanning content, live experience and interactive art. Part showcase, part provocation, Creative Collision is a reminder that the future does not belong to people working in isolation - it belongs to those willing to connect, collaborate and put themselves out there.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Lucy Aitken, Pumpkin PR
Guests:
Catriona Ejegi-Memeh, Head of Impact Programmes, WIRED Consulting
Caroline Sparkes, Director of Global Brand Marketing, Sparks
Calypso Newman, Founder, Rock Badger
Holy Boka, Director, Young Directors UK

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

How to Find and Support Young Talent

Thurs 2nd

15:15 - 16:00

Ballroom

at Dreamland

The creative industries talk constantly about “the talent pipeline” - but what does meaningful access and development actually look like in practice? Bringing together educators, studios, industry organisations and creative leaders working directly with emerging talent, this session explores how young people discover creative careers, develop industry-ready skills and build sustainable pathways into work. From outreach and mentoring to apprenticeships, alternative education routes and industry partnerships, the conversation focuses on tangible actions organisations can take to create stronger, more accessible entry points into the industry. Attendees will leave with practical ideas, useful signposting and realistic approaches to supporting the next generation of creative talent.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Hosted by:
Nene Parsotam, Art Director/Creative Director, Prime Video & Amazon Studios, AccessVFX Board Member
Guests:
Si Beales, Founder & Learning Director, Sidedoor Studio
Sidra Faridi, Marketing & Comms, Creative Access
Clive Olamiju, Head of Sales, Biscuit Filmworks
Davi Stein, VFX Trainer, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM)

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Closing thoughts

Thurs 2nd

15:50 - 15:55

Hall by the Sea

at Dreamland

A final moment to reflect, reconnect and look ahead. As the Hall by the Sea programme closes for the day, this short wrap-up brings together key themes, highlights what’s still to come across the festival, and reminds attendees that the best part of UKCF often happens once the session ends.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Festival, Careers Fair, Joint

Speaker:
Dina Green, Founder, UK Creative Festival

18+

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

UKCF Social Gathering takes over the Infamous George & Heart

Thurs 2nd

16:00 until late

The George & Heart

around Margate

Festival‑goers are welcomed to a creative celebration at The George & Heart, powered by Global. After two days of big ideas, bold conversations and coastal sunshine, this is your moment to unwind and celebrate everything we’ve created together. The George & Heart opens its front garden, restaurant and courtyard exclusively for festival guests. Expect festival style fun— drinks in hand, music drifting through the spaces and that unmistakable Margate magic in the air. Behind the bar, the team will be pouring ice‑cold cocktails from both the inside bar and the caravan outside. Out front, the kitchen fires up the BBQ, serving sunshine‑ready dishes. And the soundtrack? A seriously good sound system carrying the night from golden hour into the early hours — good beats, loud laughs, clinking glasses and the UK creative community celebrating together.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: The UK Creative Festival and Global

18+

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Creative Circle Awards Welcome Drinks

Thurs 2nd

17:00 - 18:00

Roller Disco

at Dreamland

Jon us for drinks ahead of the Creative Circle Awards

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Festival, Joint, Careers Fair

Hosts: The Creative Circle

18+

Ticket type:

Awards, Joint

Creative Circle Awards

Thurs 2nd

18:00 - 22:30

Scenic Stage

at Dreamland

Join us in celebrating the best in UK creativity, from rising stars to industry leaders, find out who is taking home the biggest awards of the night live at the official ceremony.

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Joint

Hosts: The Creative Circle

18+

Ticket type:

Awards, Joint

Creative Circle Awards After Party

Thurs 2nd

22:30 - 02:00

Cinque Ports

around Margate

We're not finished yet! Head to Cinq Ports for the legendary Creative Circle Awards after party. What happens in Margate...!

For more info - click here

Ticket type:

Awards, Joint

Connect & network with the people, businesses & brands driving the UK creative sector.

Don't miss your summer trip to the beach!

Join us in 2026...

BUY A PASS NOW

2026 event schedule

Be part of the conversation.

Key times and dates for 2026

Immerse yourself in two days of unmissable content.

Find out what's on in 2026 here

TheArtSchool with Graham Fink

Collect your accreditation

The Margate Drop - Kick of the Festival in style

Sandcastle Comp

Drop In Cold Plunge & Sauna

The Footie at Cinq Ports

Steak & Frites Night at the Opening Party

Creative Town Hall

UKCF Summer Party

Yoga - Morning Movement

Drop In Cold Plunge & Sauna

Doors open

Building Creative Futures: In partnership with Kent County Council's Culture & Creative Economy Service

The Best of British Exhibition

Workshop: Don’t Be A Dick . . . and You’ll Be Alright

Inside 4Creative: Creative Office Hours

Careers Fair

Workshop: Fast-Track Your Creative Career

Workshop: So you want to… make a difference with your creativity?

Workshop: Fight your Creative Demon. No, really, using AI.

Workshop: Think in Ink

Welcome

The Creative State We’re In

The Diversity Impact: Celebrating Inclusive Practice Across the Industry

Sound the Alarm

WTF is happening to UK creativity?

Workshop: Buckle up to ride your VFX Career Journey to be a Jedi

Workshop: So you want to....Produce Music for Film & TV

Workshop: Inside Creative Advertising: From Portfolio to Agency (and the things we wish i've known earlier!)

Workshop: Music Supervision for Advertising

Beyond The Agency:What It Takes To Work Client Direct

Challenge Produces Diamonds

Designing Worlds: where the future of creativity is being built

Workshop: So you want to....be a Visual Merchandiser, Consultant or Stylist?

Workshop: So You Want to Be a YouTuber?

Workshop: Jedi VFX mastery in storytelling

Workshop: Producers! Diversify Your New Director Contacts. Directors! Get on Producers’ Radars.

New Talent & Short Film Awards

Lunch

The Busking Stage

How Creative Businesses actually Scale

The Sound of Culture: Turning stories into moments

Workshop: You know you like photography – but how can you make a career out of it?

Workshop:Understanding the different types of ideas.

Workshop: The Hijinks Creativity Bootcamp

Workshop: Have you got the Next Big Hit? Developing Killer Entertainment Ideas

You are not Invisible

The Creator Economy:What Creative Businesses Need to Understand Now

Earning Attention: the future belongs to the creatively fearless

Workshop (for working professionals): It starts with a poster

Creative Collision: what happens when creative worlds collide

How to Find and Support Young Talent

Closing thoughts

UKCF Social Gathering takes over the Infamous George & Heart

Creative Circle Awards Welcome Drinks

Creative Circle Awards

Creative Circle Awards After Party

Connect & network with the people, businesses & brands driving the UK creative sector.

Workshop:
Don’t Be A Dick . . . and You’ll Be Alright

Workshop:
Fast-Track Your Creative Career

Workshop:
So you want to… make a difference with your creativity?

Workshop:
Fight your Creative Demon. No, really, using AI.

Workshop:
Think in Ink

Workshop:
So you want to....Produce Music for Film & TV

Workshop:
Inside Creative Advertising: From Portfolio to Agency (and the things we wish i've known earlier!)

Beyond The Agency:
What It Takes To Work Client Direct

Workshop:
So you want to....be a Visual Merchandiser, Consultant or Stylist?

Workshop:
So You Want to Be a YouTuber?

Workshop:
Understanding the different types of ideas.

Workshop:
The Hijinks Creativity Bootcamp

Workshop:
Have you got the Next Big Hit? Developing Killer Entertainment Ideas

The Creator Economy:
What Creative Businesses Need to Understand Now