In 2026, UCL turns 200. Two centuries of radical thinking, diverse voices, and student life that refuses to stand still. And the best part? You can be part of it. We’re putting students at the heart of the celebrations, because there is no UCL without students. 

UCL200 will celebrate the enormous achievements students at UCL have made since 1826, but it isn’t just a look back at the past. It's a year-long, student-led celebration that puts our community front and centre - showcasing the impactful work happening here right now, while looking forward to the future.  

Think spectacular opening and closing ceremonies, a major new exhibition, massive festivals, art installations, creative takeovers, theatre shows, and big opportunities to learn new skills and give back to London. This is your chance to shape the next 200 years of UCL, while making your mark.  

Interested and looking to contribute?
Expect a full presentation, the chance to ask questions, and a clear look at how you can shape activities by coming to our Activities Zone. These sessions run monthly and the first one is on Monday 27 October.

You can also let us know what areas you'd like to be involved with by completing our webform and we'll be in touch with ways you can contribute.

What to look forward to

UCL200 Summer Festival

Picture this... the Main Quad transformed into a multi-day outdoor festival in June 2026. Think live music, film, headline speakers and workshops that are all about celebrating what students bring to life at UCL. 

That’s not all. We’re also planning: 

  • artsUCL Fringe Festival – two weeks of experimental student-led comedy, drama, music, and dance across campus. 
  • A milestone Varsity – a bigger and better celebration of the historic friendly sporting rivalry between UCL and King’s.
  • UCL: The Musical – yes, you read that right. A brand-new show written, produced, and performed by UCL students and alumni at the Bloomsbury Theatre.

UCL200 Active

Love sports? Just like something to go along to? UCL200 Active will get the whole community moving with five themed mass-participation challenges. If you enjoyed the UCL Campus Run or our Swimathon, we know you'll love what we have in store for you.

And to top it off, the London Varsity Series 2026 is going bigger than ever. Expect history, rivalry, and the biggest Varsity yet.

Giving Back

We’re not just celebrating, we’re giving back. Students will join forces through three Hacks to find creative solutions for alumni-owned social enterprises and not-for-profits. It’s a chance to apply your skills, creativity, and teamwork to make a real difference in the community. Real skills, real impact, real change.

Tell Your Story

This is your chance to make sure student voices get heard. Clubs, societies, and student journalists will capture the celebrations, including a special print edition and souvenir of Pi Media, marking both UCL’s 200th birthday and Pi’s 80th.

What's next?

UCL200 isn’t just another anniversary. It’s about community, pride, and showing the world what UCL students are all about. You’ll get opportunities to perform, lead, compete, create, and give back, all while being part of a once-in-a-lifetime milestone.

Last updated 3 weeks ago