THE FESTIVAL OF QUILTS 2026

The Festival of Quilts 2026: Europe's Premier Quilting Celebration

Mark your calendars for July 30th to August 2nd, 2026, as the NEC Birmingham once again transforms into the vibrant heart of the global quilting community for The Festival of Quilts. Renowned as Europe's largest and most prestigious quilting exhibition, this four-day extravaganza promises an unparalleled experience for enthusiasts of all levels, from seasoned artists to curious beginners.

A Tapestry of Talent & Inspiration

At the core of the Festival lies its breathtaking Competitive Exhibition. Prepare to be dazzled by hundreds of stunning quilts, meticulously crafted and judged across diverse categories. Marvel at intricate traditional piecing, innovative art quilts pushing creative boundaries, captivating miniature works, and awe-inspiring large-scale pieces. Witness the winner of the coveted Best in Show award and explore themed exhibitions showcasing exceptional talent from around the world. It's a visual feast offering endless inspiration and a profound appreciation for the artistry and skill involved.

Beyond the Competition: A World of Quilting Delights

The Festival offers far more than just viewing:

The Marketplace: Embark on a shopper's paradise! Browse aisles packed with an extensive range of high-quality fabrics (cottons, batiks, linens, wools), threads, patterns, kits, sewing machines, embroidery supplies, books, and unique quilting tools. Discover exclusive products and meet passionate vendors.
Workshops & Lectures: Expand your knowledge and skills! The Festival features a comprehensive programme of hands-on workshops led by renowned international tutors, covering techniques from traditional piecing and appliqué to modern quilting, free-motion embroidery, and dyeing. Engage in insightful lectures and demonstrations covering quilt history, design principles, and innovative approaches.
Special Features: Look out for exciting feature areas like the Quilts for Sale gallery, the Schools' Challenge showcasing young talent, and special displays celebrating quilting heritage or contemporary themes. The Textile Village often complements the quilting focus with related textile arts.
Societies & Groups: Connect with like-minded individuals. Numerous national and international quilting societies and groups host stands, meetings, and special events, fostering community and shared passion.

Plan Your Visit

Tickets: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for popular workshops and peak days. Tickets typically grant access to all exhibition halls, features, and the marketplace. Workshop/lecture tickets are usually separate.
Location: The National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, B40 1NT, UK. Easily accessible via major motorways (M6, M42, M1), train (Birmingham International Station with a short shuttle or walk), and Birmingham International Airport.
Facilities: The NEC offers extensive parking, restaurants, cafes, and accessible facilities.

Why Attend?

The Festival of Quilts 2026 is more than an event; it's an immersion into a world of colour, creativity, and craftsmanship. Whether you seek inspiration for your next project, want to learn new skills, indulge in a shopping spree, or simply soak in the atmosphere among fellow enthusiasts, this is the ultimate quilting pilgrimage. It's an unmissable celebration of the art, history, and community spirit of quilting, promising memories and inspiration to last long after the final stitch. Don't miss Europe's finest quilting experience!