We are losing the habit of talking to one another in the public square, while becoming increasingly divided and angered on digital screens. Why not meet and talk more often in public spaces, to appreciate what brings us together and to learn from our differences?

The Festival of the Common is an experiment in what today may seem unexpected: building a broad civic initiative that, by fostering respectful conversation in parks, squares, libraries and other public spaces, can help us overcome the unease caused by fragmentation and polarisation. It is not intended to be the definitive festival, but rather the first step in a broader process that is already bringing together many people and organisations.

Avilés is the first experiment. Explore the programme and join us.