Today marks exactly one year until the start of IF: Milton Keynes International Festival 2027, which returns from 23 July to 1 August 2027.

Presented every two years, the Festival has established itself as one of the UK’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. Through its world-class, multi-arts programme the Festival creates unique and memorable experiences, encouraging residents and visitors to see a different side to Milton Keynes.

Headline Partner Announcement

The Festival is delighted to confirm that long-term supporter centre:mk will once again return as Headline Partner for next year’s Festival.

As one of the city’s key cultural and civic partners, centre:mk has played a longstanding role in supporting the Festival’s ambition to bring extraordinary cultural experiences into the heart of Milton Keynes. Its continued partnership in 2027 reflects a shared commitment to celebrating creativity, community and the city’s cultural identity on a national stage.

Monica Ferguson, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of The Stables, which founded and produces the Festival, said: “With one year to go, we’re excited to start the journey towards IF: 2027. The Festival has become one of the UK’s flagship events, transforming familiar spaces and bringing unforgettable experiences to audiences of all ages. We are thrilled that centre:mk will once again be our Headline Partner and thank them for their much-valued support of the Festival and its ambitions.”

Kevin Duffy, Centre Director of centre:mk, said: “We are delighted to once again be Headline Partner of IF: Milton Keynes International Festival 2027. The Festival is a hugely important part of the city’s cultural calendar, and we’re proud to continue supporting an event that brings such creativity and energy to Milton Keynes. We look forward to working with the Festival team to help deliver another unforgettable edition in 2027.”

The Festival is also supported by Arts Council England and Milton Keynes City Council, whose Leader, Councillor Jane Carr said, "The International Festival transforms Milton Keynes with an exciting programme that surprises, inspires and brings people together. We're proud to support its success and encourage local businesses to seize the opportunity to get involved and help make next year's Festival even bigger and better."

Businesses and other organisations interested in supporting the 2027 Festival are invited to get involved with opportunities ranging from sponsorship and hospitality packages to tailored engagement with the wide range of Festival audiences. For more details on business and individual support, please visit https://ifmiltonkeynes.org/support-us or contact Cat Moore, Executive Director cat.moore@stables.org.

The full Festival programme will be announced in Spring 2027.