ESRC Festival of Social Science 2026

The ESRC Festival of Social Science 2026 represents a prestigious annual celebration dedicated to highlighting the vital role of social science research in addressing the most pressing challenges of our era. Hosted by the University of Southampton, this event series serves as a bridge between academic inquiry and public understanding, demonstrating how rigorous data and analysis can inform policy, drive economic competitiveness, and improve societal wellbeing.

The theme for the 2026 festival is "Money, Finance and the Cost of Living." This focus is particularly timely, as it delves into the intricate ways that financial systems influence our daily lives—from individual spending habits and saving decisions to the broader macroeconomic forces that dictate the costs of essential goods like housing, food, and energy. Throughout the festival, participants will have the opportunity to engage with leading researchers, including experts from the Centre for Population Change, to explore why our financial habits develop, how economic literacy is cultivated across generations, and why economic conditions fluctuate so rapidly in the modern world.

By opening these critical conversations to the public, the festival aims to empower citizens to feel more informed, confident, and connected to the economic issues that shape their households and communities. Attendees can expect a diverse program featuring interactive workshops, insightful seminars, and networking sessions that connect academic theory with practical reality. Whether you are a student, a policy professional, or simply a curious member of the public, this festival offers a unique lens through which to view the 21st-century society. It is an opportunity to look beyond the headlines and understand the structural dynamics behind our current cost-of-living challenges, fostering a better-prepared and more resilient community.