UK’s first trans and non-binary festival makes triumphant return with epic line-up

British author and activist Shon Faye.

The UK’s first festival dedicated to the trans and non-binary community, Trans Festival, is coming back with a bang.

The Trans Festival debuted in 2020 but was forced into hiatus by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It will make its triumphant return to London on 13 August, bringing together trans people and allies of all shapes and sizes to create a much-needed space for celebration, discussion and activism.

The day will see a series of talks and panel discussions, covering topics such as transmasculine representation, parenting, health and wellness.

A professional headshot of Juno Dawson

British activist Juno Dawson (Jecca Blac/Provided)

Among the confirmed speakers are author Juno Dawson, journalist Freddy McConnell, actors Jake Graf and Reece Lyons, model Kenny Ethan Jones, activist Eva Echo, model and activist Dani St James and fitness influencer Cairo Nevitt.

Shon Faye will read an extract from her forthcoming book Love In Exile, due for release in 2025.

The book follows her acclaimed debut title, The Transgender Issue: an Argument for Justice, which outlines why, in the simplest of terms, trans liberation would benefit all of us.

“We’ve heard a lot about trans rights, about this idea that trans people deserve equality within our present system,” Faye explained to PinkNews in 2021.

Jecca Blac’s Maxine Heron will host the panel discussions at 110 Pennington Street in London.

Trans Festival 2022 will also feature a plethora of retail brands which are either trans-owned or provide trans-positive messages and products.

Trans Festival creator and founder of Jecca Blac, Jessica Blackler, said: “Trans Festival delivers a unique combination of inspiration, activism and education – fundamental pillars on which our brand, and this event, were built.

“After the success of our first Trans Festival at the start of 2020, and COVID putting the breaks on any gatherings for the past two years, we were determined to celebrate our community in style. Thanks to the support of some incredible partners, our second event is well worth the wait.:

Tickets are currently available at Skiddle and start at £15.