Hay Festival Press Office

How do I get a press pass?

All journalists must pre-register to qualify for press accreditation. Because of Fire Regulations, no general passes can be given except to the 10 nominated photographers who will not require seats. Complimentary press tickets are provided first to those working to commission. Press allocation is limited to 10% of the total audience.

Photographers’ passes

We only accredit 10 photographers, and they are entitled to enter each event for the first and last five minutes only.

Can I arrange interviews with writers prior to their arrival?

Where the interview relates to the writer or performer appearing at the Festival we will do everything we can to facilitate this.

And at the festival?

Yes. Provided that the piece is commissioned. We will arrange the best access possible. There will also be daily news briefings for the press at breakfast in the Press Office.

Can I obtain recordings of events?

Many events will be available online at www.hayfestival.com within 48 hours of their taking place. If you want a feed from a particular event, and the artist or writer agrees, we can arrange that with our tech crew. There is a nominal fee of £25 per event.

Can we film the festival?

Sky Arts – The Arts Channel from Sky is the official television partner of the Festival. All other UK television companies have news access to the Festival, but may not broadcast more than 60 seconds of total footage recorded. Access to the site can be made available for discreet crews. Filming in events is not permitted. Foreign television companies may purchase footage of the festival. Please contact becky@hayfestival.org.

Do we get to go to the parties?

Yes, but you have to be invited...

Are there any interesting articles already on the net that might help?

Yes, try:

Gideon Spanner in The Guardian
Stephen Moss in The Guardian
bbc.co.uk on Paul McCartney