The much-loved Community Festival returns this May for a special two-day centenary edition. Join us on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 of May for a vibrant weekend of entertainment, discovery and celebration as we mark 100 years of the University of Reading.
As part of the University’s centenary celebrations, this year’s special Centenary Community Festival will bring together alumni, students and the wider community for a weekend filled with entertainment, connection and celebration.
Taking place across Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May, the Festival will feature two iconic events – the Centenary Community Festival and the return of the RAG parade. Alongside the main Festival programme, Reading graduates can enjoy a range of exclusive alumni activities across the weekend.
Whether you want to enjoy a day filled with exciting research exhibitions, live music, delicious food, step back in time with Sunday’s RAG parade, or reconnect with fellow graduates – this May has something for everyone.
Saturday 16 May
Alumni Lunch Reception
12:00-14:00, Flex, Students Union, Whiteknights Campus
Join us in the Student’s Union for the chance to connect with fellow Reading graduates. Enjoy light refreshments while reminiscing and connecting with new and old friends. Whether you graduated recently or years ago, this is a wonderful chance to celebrate your place in the University’s 100-year story.
The Alumni Lunch Reception is free to attend but registration is mandatory. Due to venue capacity, the Reception is open to University of Reading alumni only and we are unable to accommodate non-alumni guests.
Book now to attend the Alumni Reception
Alumni Quiz
16:00-18:00, Flex, Students Union, Whiteknights Campus
Put your knowledge to the test at our special Alumni Quiz, hosted by Ryan – University of Reading staff member and expert quizmaster. Bring a team along or join fellow alumni on the day and get to know each other over some friendly competition. Complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided, and drinks may also be purchased from the bar.
The quiz is free to attend by booking is essential. The quiz teams will be groups of six.
If you are part of a group of alumni friends wishing to be on the same team, we ask that one of your group emails alumni@reading.ac.uk with your names so that we can do our best to accommodate you. All those wishing to take part in the quiz must be registered individually.
Due to venue capacity, the quiz is open to University of Reading alumni only and we are unable to accommodate non-alumni guests.
Book now to attend the Alumni Pub Quiz
The Centenary Community Festival
12:00 – 17:00, Whiteknights Campus
Alongside the alumni activities, the Community Festival returns for a special Centenary edition.
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.
Those attending Alumni Activities must also register for the Community Festival.
Register to attend the Centenary Community Festival
Sunday 17 May
Reading Walks – A Celebration of University RAG Parades Route
10:30am-12:30pm, start and finish at The Museum of English Rural Life
Join Reading Walks for a special guided walk celebrating the history of the University’s RAG parades and their long-standing connection with the town of Reading.
This walk will explore the traditional parade route through the town centre, bringing to life the stories behind one of the University’s most colourful and memorable student traditions. Along the way, guides will share anecdotes, photographs and memories from past parades.
Tickets are £3 per person and booking is essential. Please note that spaces for this guided walk are limited, so we advise you to book your place early to avoid disappointment.
Find out more and book your place at Reading Walks
RAG Parade
12:00-17:00, Forbury Gardens
The celebrations continue on Sunday with the return of the colourful and lively RAG Parade – a long-standing University tradition that brings students and the local community together in a joyful procession through Reading town centre.
Expect creativity, costumes and plenty of centenary spirit as the University marks this milestone year.
Register to attend the Centenary RAG Parade
Alumni High Tea
15:00-17:00, Reading Town Hall, Blagrave Street
Round off the Centenary weekend with an elegant Alumni High Tea.
Join us in the Town Hall on Sunday afternoon for High Tea, and to hear a fascinating talk from Guy Baxter, Head of University Archive Services, which will explore the rich history of the University. Come along and take part in this special centenary event, reconnect with other alumni and share your own stories from your time at Reading.
This event is free to attend but registration is required. Due to venue capacity, this event is open to University of Reading alumni only and we are unable to accommodate non-alumni guests.
Register to attend the Alumni High Tea
We hope you can join us over the Centenary Festival weekend in May, and we look forward to welcoming you back to the University of Reading to celebrate the past, present and future of our community.
[…] Are you interested in revisiting the University and connecting with fellow University of Reading graduates? Join us for our exclusive Alumni Activities at the Centenary Community Festival. […]