Student Events & Societies at the University of Cambridge (2025‑26)

Cambridge offers a vibrant calendar of student events and a thriving societies scene. Whether you’re an incoming fresher or a seasoned postgraduate, the 2025‑26 year promises a packed schedule of fairs, workshops and cultural celebrations. This guide outlines key events and how to get involved in the societies that make Cambridge unique.

Major events for 2025‑26

The Cambridge Students’ Union (SU) organises a wide range of events, from entertainment fairs to training workshops. Highlights from the 2025 autumn term include:

• Entertainment Fair: Play Your Way (23 Oct 2025) – part‑fair, part‑festival, this event invites students to explore board games, puzzles and interactive challenges (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

• Bridging the Gap: Africa & the Diaspora (25 Oct 2025) – hosted by the Cambridge African Society, this talk and networking event brings together students to discuss African and diasporic identities (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

• Annual Athletics Cuppers (26 Oct 2025) – an inter‑collegiate athletics competition that welcomes runners, jumpers and throwers of all abilities (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

• Mycological Society Wandlebury Foray (26 Oct 2025) – join the Cambridge Mycological Society for a fungus‑foraging expedition in Wandlebury Country Park (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

• Academic Rep Elections & Training (27‑30 Oct 2025) – elect and train academic representatives to ensure your voice is heard. The SU also runs training sessions for society committees, including “How to Lead a Committee”, “Events Masterclass” and “Finance & Webpage Training” (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

• Student Volunteering Fair (15 Nov 2025) – meet charities and community groups, discover volunteering opportunities and sign up to make a difference (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

Throughout the year the University also hosts open‑day webinars, subject masterclasses and cultural festivals. Keep an eye on your college’s noticeboards and the central events calendar for talks by visiting academics, concerts, film nights and seasonal balls.

Societies at Cambridge

Cambridge is home to hundreds of student‑run societies covering everything from music, drama and journalism to politics, cultural associations and niche hobbies. Societies are registered with the Junior Proctor’s Office and many are affiliated with the Cambridge SU, meaning they receive funding and support (www.proctors.cam.ac.uk). The Cambridge SU’s Find a Society directory allows you to browse by category and search for groups that suit your interests. Whether you’re passionate about debating, rowing, African literature or vegan cooking, there’s a community for you.

Joining a society is one of the best ways to meet people beyond your college and to develop skills. Most societies run taster sessions and socials during Freshers’ Week and the SU Welcome Fair, so make sure to attend and sign up. Committee elections usually take place in Lent term, and training workshops on governance, event‑planning and finance help new committees run their clubs effectively (www.cambridgesu.co.uk).

Tips for making the most of Cambridge’s social life

• Plan ahead: Many events sell out quickly, so check the SU’s events page regularly and book tickets early.

• Balance academics and fun: Cambridge terms are intense; schedule time for extracurriculars without compromising your studies.

• Explore college traditions: Formal Halls, May Balls and Bops are integral to the Cambridge experience—attend at least one!

• Get outdoors: Punting on the River Cam, cycling to Grantchester and walking in the Botanic Garden offer relaxing breaks from library sessions.

• Volunteer: The Student Volunteering Fair and college‑based initiatives provide opportunities to contribute to the wider community.

By attending events and getting involved in societies, you’ll build friendships, develop new interests and ensure your Cambridge year is unforgettable.