Fresher’s Welcome

Fresher’s Welcome | Your Guide to the Festival

New to the Festival? Or want a refresher? Or just want to meet some people?

This is a relaxed, drop-in session sitting on bean bags, benches and grass for a good chat. Whether it’s your first time at the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival or you’ve been before and want to meet a few new people, this is a great place to begin.

We’ll give you a quick rundown of what’s happening: how the site works, what’s on the main stage, side events like author dinners and the Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers, plus what the publishers are up to. We’ll also share some handy tips – where to grab food, find a quiet corner, get your books signed, or just soak it all in.

These events are free, but please book a ticket – it really helps us keep an eye on numbers and make sure we allow enough time and space for everyone.