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Young Barbican Takeover Festival 2025

Man/Woman/Chainsaw. Photo by Sophie Barloc

Man/Woman/Chainsaw who will be performing on the FreeStage. Photo by Sophie Barloc

This one-day festival returns with a stunning line-up of live music, workshops, film screenings and more curated for and by London's emerging creatives.

The Young Barbican Takeover Festival is an opportunity for London's young creatives to come together, explore the Barbican and enjoy live performances and more.

Come along to makers workshops led by Artizine and Material Grrrlz, enjoy live music curated by So Young Magazine, and join us for a series of performances and talks by Travis Alabanza, James Massiah, Charlie Brinkhurst-Cuff and more. 

Our Young Film Programmers alumni have curated an afternoon of film screenings and our Barbican Young Poets will be performing in our iconic Conservatory.

Looking to break into the world of publishing or fashion? Discover engaging talks and networking with industry professionals as we welcome leading publishers including Penguin, Fitzcarraldo, Silver Press, Chateau International and SEASON zine. 

Discover the full programme below. 

Venues
The festival takes over the whole centre for one day only. You'll discover events across many spaces including our iconic Conservatory, Cinema and Level G foyers. Please log in to your Young Barbican account to book.

Running time
12pm–6pm 

Age guidance: 14+
All events are suitable for people aged 14 and above except for the Girlhood screening which has an age restriction of 15.

The centre will be open from 10am for you to collect your wristband before the event starts at 12pm. 

Age 14-25? Sign up to Young Barbican
Young Barbican membership is free and gives you access to discounted tickets on unmissable art, entertainment, food and shopping. Everyone is welcome at this takeover festival, even if you're not a Young Barbican member.

Presented by the Barbican's Creative Collaboration team

Young Barbican tickets from £6

Aged 14-25? Sign up for free and get discounts on art, music, film and theatre

Programme