Being Human Festival 2024

Each November, the Being Human Festival hosts hundreds of free events across the UK and beyond, showcasing the power of the humanities to inspire and enrich our everyday lives.

Running from 7 to 16 November, this year’s festival highlighted how the humanities help us better understand ourselves, our relationships, and the challenges of our changing world.

As the UK’s national festival of the humanities, Being Human celebrates humanities research through public engagement. Each year, researchers from universities and other organisations partner with local communities and cultural groups to create accessible and innovative events for all to enjoy.

One highlight of this year’s festival was Methods@Manchester’s event, What’s in Your Wardrobe? Telling & Sharing Clothing Stories, held on 16 November. The session invited attendees to bring cherished items of clothing that hold personal stories—whether they represent past relationships, cultural shifts, or meaningful life moments. Participants shared heartfelt memories and connections tied to their garments, showcasing how clothing acts as a unique archive of personal history.

The event was a powerful reminder of how everyday items, like clothes, can offer insight into our lives and identities, underscoring the festival’s commitment to engaging and thought-provoking activities.

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