A diverse programme of keynote talks, performances, concerts, talks, gigs, debates and free music.

Visit the marketplace, exhibitions and workshops. Take part in speed-mentoring, networking opportunities and more. Throughout the festival WOW will present the very best of recognised and emerging female talent across all fields including politics, the arts, economics, fashion, science, health, sport, business and education. WOW also celebrates International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March with free mass speed-mentoring.

Our pick of the events include the launch of the book '50 Shades of Feminism' .

Fifty years after the publication of The Feminine Mystique, is being a woman today really just about submitting to desire, in its variations of sex, shopping and even masochism?

As the antidote to this notion, Lisa Appignanesi, Rachel Holmes and Susie Orbach were compelled to invite 50 contributors to write about what being a woman means to them today. ’50 Shades Of Feminism’ features 50 women young and old – writers, politicians, actors, scientists, mothers and non-mothers responded. In this special launch event for the book, the editors will be joined by contributors including Elif Shafak, Diana Quick, Ahdaf Souief, Xinran, Timberlake Wertenbaker, Laurie Penny, Joan Bakewell and Juliet Stevenson.

Film fans should check out Birds' Eye View sound and silents screening of the first ever animated film- The adventures of prince Ahmed, with a new score performed live by Bushra El Turk.  

Other unmissable events include Camellia and the Rabbit, Seaming To and Sandi Toksvig hosting Mirth Control, an electrifying night of comedy and music inspired by great women. This year, special guests include one of Britain’s most successful singers, Petula Clark, plus Sue Perkins and Fascinating Aida.

A DAY PASS INCLUDES A WIDE RANGE OF EVENTS EACH DAY, HOWEVER SOME EVENING EVENTS ARE TICKETED SEPARATELY.