Everyone knows reading expands worlds, sharpens minds, and fuels creativity. But fewer of us are making time for it. We’re joining the nation to Go All In.

2026 is the Government's National Year of Reading - reconnecting reading with the things that already inspire us, from playlists and football matches to films, food and family time. Chichester will play a leading regional role, with a year-long, city-wide programme for all ages to reconnect with the joy, confidence and opportunity that reading brings.

Led by Children’s BookFest, Chichester Festival Theatre and Chichester BID, the campaign brings together existing cultural, educational and community activity into a joined-up programme supporting reading for pleasure, storytelling, literacy confidence and community connection. Here at CFT, a major early highlight will be our adaptation of one of the UK's most beloved books, Roald Dahl’s The BFG  (9 March – 11 April 2026), and a BFG inspired trail in the city centre over the Easter holidays. 

We are also exploring ways to strengthen children’s reading confidence - including supporting children who are increasingly reluctant to read aloud - and reinforcing the connection between books, scripts and performance across our learning, community and education programme. Our Festival Fridays programme (supporting Year 5 & 6 pupils who spend one school day each week at the Theatre) will also collaborate with West Sussex County Council Libraries to create a short film in support of the National Year of Reading.

Dale Rooks, Director of Learning, Education and Participation, says: “Storytelling is at the heart of all drama. Books and theatre share the priceless and life-enhancing power to take us out of ourselves, spark imagination, and experience other lives and other worlds. Whether through vibrant stage adaptations like The BFG, special projects such as our Festival Fridays programme or our summer storytelling sessions, we wholeheartedly support the National Year of Reading.”

Organisations across Chichester are invited to take part by weaving reading into what they already do - helping to make reading visible, accessible and celebrated throughout the district, and ensuring the National Year of Reading leaves a lasting local legacy. 

Read more about this exciting project and watch this space for more information to find out how you can get involved.