Inter Faith Week 2026 is set to take place from Sunday, 8th November to Sunday, 15th November, providing a national focal point for strengthening interfaith relations and increasing awareness of the diverse faith communities across the UK. Following the success of previous years, the week aims to showcase the vital contribution of religious and non-religious groups to their local neighbourhoods while encouraging people to engage in interfaith activity for the first time.
The 2026 program is expected to build on recent innovations, such as the "Community: Together We Serve" theme and expanded youth leadership initiatives, to further "burst the bubble" and reach audiences beyond traditional interfaith networks. By fostering dialogue, social action, and education in schools, workplaces, and community hubs, Inter Faith Week remains a key piece of civic infrastructure dedicated to building a more inclusive and respectful society.
The 2026 theme "Lighting the Way for a Shared Future” is a celebration of hope. Inspired by the symbolism of light across faiths and traditions, including the spirit of Diwali, the theme reflects a shared belief that even in challenging times, communities can come together to build understanding, trust and friendships.
At a time when division, disinformation, antisemitism, anti-Muslim hatred, and other forms of prejudice are causing many people to feel isolated or pressured to hide who they are, interfaith offers a hopeful alternative towards a shared future in which we all belong, stand together against hate and narrow definitions of belonging, and build stronger, safer, and more united communities. It offers a way forward rooted in solidarity, compassion, and shared action, creating space for people to connect across differences and work together for the common good.
This theme is also a call to action. It invites people of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds to take part in Inter Faith Week 2026 and help light the way forward together. Whether through running a Peace Walk in your local area, attending a workshop on faith and the environment, or tuning into an online panel discussion on religious perspectives on wellbeing, every person has a role to play. Through Inter Faith Week 2026, together we can build a society where differences are valued, where no one is left behind, and where hate is outshone by hope.
Inter Faith Week 2026 Events
Get ready to build bridges and celebrate the incredible diversity of faith and belief across the UK. Inter Faith Week is a powerful annual initiative dedicated to strengthening interfaith relations, fostering mutual understanding, and showcasing the invaluable contributions of faith communities.
Inter Faith Week for Schools
Interfaith Week for Schools (IFW4Schools) is a dedicated initiative - primarily led by the Faith & Belief Forum with partners - designed to help educators celebrate diversity, explore different faiths and beliefs, and build social cohesion. It provides a hub of free, high-quality resources, training, and event ideas.
The Inter Faith Week Report 2025
The Inter Faith Week Report 2025 evaluates the programme and documents over 430 activities under the theme "Community: Together We Serve." The Week successfully expanded youth leadership and partnerships with non-faith organisations, such as businesses and local councils. While highlighting significant growth in digital engagement and regional reach, the report identifies key priorities for 2026, including earlier planning, greater social action, and more diverse national leadership.
REGIONAL ONLINE WEBINARS
We are pleased to announce that a series of regional online webinars will be taking place between mid-September and mid-October. The dates and times of these are listed below.
The webinars are a great opportunity for local interfaith groups to network with each other, discuss common challenges and issues, and ask questions about the Week. They will include a presentation from a communications professional on how best to publicise activities. The National Steering Group is grateful to the nine regional interfaith bodies who have kindly agreed to host the webinars. If you would like to receive the link, please email communities@interfaithweek.org, and we will put you in touch with the host.
East Midlands 22nd September, 12.00-1.30 pm (Host – Loughborough Council of Faiths)
East of England 24th September, 4.00-5.30 pm (Host – East of England Faiths Agency)
West Midlands 29th September, 6.00-7.30 pm (Host – Together in Action, Coventry)
London 30th September, 5.00-6.30 pm (Host – Faiths Forum for London)
North East 1st October, 5.30-7.00 pm (Host – Dialogue Society, Newcastle upon Tyne)
Yorkshire & Humberside 2nd October, 12.00-1.30 pm (Host – York Interfaith Group)
North West 5th October, 5.00-6.30 pm (Host – Faith Network 4 Manchester)
South East 6th October, 5.00-6.30 pm (Host – South East England Faiths Forum)
South West 7th October, 6.00-7.30 pm (Host – Bristol Multi-Faith Forum)
