Sunday afternoon, in Chelsea, with Marian Keyes – is there a nicer way to spend it? Elizabeth Day says no! Here’s what she said about Chelsea Arts Festival.
Her conversation with Marian Keyes took place in front of a packed audience at Cadogan Hall — and it was, in her words, “the loveliest experience.”
A Conversation Between Friends
“Sunday afternoon, sunning outside, with the delightful Marian Keyes, who is the best company anyway, and her asking me such intelligent, insightful and funny questions,” Elizabeth Day said. “And then, in front of a gorgeous, friendly audience, it was a really special atmosphere, and I’ve never actually been in Cadogan Hall before. So, to be in this beautiful, historic building was a treat in and of itself. Loved it. Hope the audience did too.”
Asked whether she felt she’d had enough time to discuss her new novel, One of Us, Elizabeth Day was emphatic: “Definitely. I mean, I love the fact that when a book comes out, if you’re lucky enough to get interviewed more than once, every single conversation is slightly different. And I loved Marian’s sort of easy manner, because we’re friends anyway. So, we just got chatting about everything. And of course, everything feeds into how I write. And so, everything ultimately feeds into the book. So, yes, I felt like it was a really nice balance. I really enjoyed doing a reading, and I really enjoyed talking about some of the characters of One of Us.”
As Keyes described during the event, the novel is “a state of the nation” story. “It’s about why we fall in love with the people who damage us,” Day added, “and why sometimes we elect them too.”
What made the exchange between Day and Keyes so special was the sense of genuine connection that filled the room. The conversation flowed like two old friends catching up rather than a formal interview — full of warmth, laughter and curiosity. The audience responded in kind, hanging on every word, laughing at the in-jokes, and nodding along at the more reflective moments. It was the kind of festival event that reminds everyone why live literature matters: for the shared spark of understanding that happens only when writers and readers come together in person.
A Festival That Already Feels Historic
Speaking after the event, Elizabeth Day reflected on what it meant to take part in the festival’s first edition. “It is such an honour and a privilege to be part of the first ever Chelsea Arts Festival,” she said. “And actually, one of the biggest compliments I can pay is that it feels that this festival has been going for many, many years. It feels historic, classic, really well organised, an incredible line-up.”
Her affection for the setting was clear. “I feel very, very privileged, not only because I live just across the river, so it’s a very easy commute for me, but also because I’ve been an OG Made in Chelsea watcher since day one,” she laughed. “And I’m still possibly the only 46-year-old in the world who watches it religiously every Monday. So, for all of those reasons, I love being in Chelsea. It’s such a special place, such a special atmosphere.”
Say Yes to Next Year
Elizabeth Day finished with a heartfelt message for anyone considering coming along next year: “If you are hesitating and buying a ticket, or in saying yes to next year, please hesitate no longer. It’s phenomenal.”
A fitting sentiment from one of Britain’s most thoughtful voices — and a perfect invitation to return for another weekend of stories, laughter and connection in Chelsea.
Stay tunes for more news on 2026 dates and keep an eye out for announcements!
