The University of Reading’s much loved Community Festival is back for its third year – bringing together alumni, students, and the community for a vibrant day of entertainment, reconnection and exclusive alumni events!
Taking place on Saturday 17 May 2025, this free one-day festival at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights Campus promises live music, interactive workshops, creative spaces and delicious food. Whether you’re looking to relive your University days or simply enjoy a family-friendly day out, there’s something for everyone.
Exclusive alumni events
This year, we are excited to once again host some special alumni events, providing a chance to reconnect with fellow graduates and celebrate your time at the University of Reading.
You can meet with fellow alumni over drinks and nibbles at our Alumni Drinks Reception or take a walk down memory lane with Michael Fulford, staff and member of The Friends of the University of Reading, as he leads a tour of campus.
You can also relive your student years with a trip to the Merch Store for some University of Reading memorabilia – just let them know you’re a UoR alum and you can get a 10% discount.
All our events are free but booking is mandatory – please book via the links below.
Alumni Drinks Reception
Boardroom 2, Reading Students’ Union, Whiteknights Campus
13:30 – 15:00
Join us and mingle with your fellow alumni for drinks and snacks at our Alumni Drinks Reception. Based in the Students Union, the boardroom overlooks Palmer Quad – the perfect place to reminisce with fellow alumni on your own unique student experiences. The reception is free of charge, but booking is mandatory. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot now.
Please note that the Alumni Drinks Reception is limited to alumni attendees only, due to space limitations of our venue.
Book the Alumni Drinks Reception now
Whiteknights Campus Tours
Early Afternoon Tour: 12:30 – 13:30
Late Afternoon Tour: 15:00 – 16:00
Enjoy a guided tour of the University’s beautiful Whiteknights Campus – this year led by Michael Fulford – staff and member of The Friends of the University of Reading. With an extensive knowledge of the University’s history, Michael will bring to life stories behind the spaces you once called home. These tours are free of charge, and you’re welcome to register for friends or family to join you. However, booking is required.
Please note both tours will follow the same route around campus.
Please book on to your preferred time today to secure your place.
Book an Alumni Campus Tour now
The Community Festival
Whiteknights Campus
12:00 – 17:00
Alongside these alumni exclusive events, the Community Festival offers a packed schedule of engaging activities for all ages.
This event will feature local artists, performers and community organisations, and visitors can get active with a host of sports taster sessions or a stroll around the stunning Whiteknights lake and gardens. The Community Festival will once again showcase some of the world-leading research currently taking place at the University in a range of easy-to-understand talks, workshops and interactive sessions for all ages.
At the same time as registering for a campus tour or the Alumni Drinks Reception – or both – please also express your interest to attend the overall Community Festival. The Community Festival and these alumni events are free of charge.
We hope you will join us for these special events. We can’t wait to welcome you back to campus to create more unforgettable memories together.
