University of Southampton Festival of Social Science – OCTOBER 2026
For the eighth consecutive year, the University of Southampton is excited to participate in the ESRC’s Festival of Social Science (FoSS). From 17th to November 7th, 2026, we invite you to explore the fascinating world of social science through a variety of engaging events.
The ESRC Festival of Social Science is an annual celebration dedicated to showcasing the importance of social science research in understanding and addressing the challenges of our world. From climate change and geopolitical tensions to civic protests, social science provides crucial insights into the issues shaping our lives. This festival offers a unique opportunity to discover how social science research influences public policy, enhances economic competitiveness, and deepens our understanding of 21st-century society.
The 2026 theme, Money, Finance and the Cost of Living, explores how money affects our everyday lives, from the choices we make about spending and saving, to the wider economic forces shaping the costs of housing, food and essentials. It encourages people to think about where our financial habits come from, how children and adults learn about money, and why prices and economic conditions change over time. By opening up conversations about personal finances, rising living costs and how the economy works, the theme aims to help people feel more informed, confident and connected to the issues that influence households and communities today.
We are also thrilled to announce our continued partnership with Bournemouth University, which will help us deliver an extended programme of events this year.
If you have any questions about the events, please contact the festival team at FOSS@soton.ac.uk For more information about nationwide events, visit the ESRC Festival website and follow us on Twitter at #ESRCFESTIVAL.
