Guardian Writers Answer Your 2026 Questions at Live Event 2026

The Guardian is inviting readers to submit questions for its 2026 end-of-year live event, where top writers will reflect on the stories that defined the year. The event, taking place on 1 December, will feature Zoe Williams, Jonathan Liew, and Lucy Mangan, with a second panel including political editor Pippa Crerar and economics editor Heather Stewart.

This is a chance for readers to engage directly with the journalists behind the headlines and shape the conversation about the year's biggest stories.

What Is the Guardian's 2026 End-of-Year Event?

The Guardian's end-of-year event is a live gathering where writers and editors discuss the most significant news and cultural moments of 2026. It offers audiences a behind-the-scenes look at how stories were covered and what might come next.

The first half features columnists and critics Zoe Williams, Jonathan Liew, and Lucy Mangan, who will share their perspectives on the year's defining events. After the interval, political editor Pippa Crerar and political sketch writer John Crace will join economics editor Heather Stewart to delve into Westminster and beyond.

Why Your Questions Matter

Reader questions are central to the event, giving the audience a direct role in the discussion. By submitting a question, you can prompt writers to revisit underreported stories, clarify complex issues, or offer predictions for 2027.

This interactive format reflects the Guardian's commitment to audience engagement and transparent journalism. It also provides a platform for diverse voices and concerns to be heard.

How to Submit Your Questions

Submitting a question is straightforward: use the form provided on the Guardian's website. The form is designed to collect questions efficiently, and selected questions will be put to the panellists during the event.

While not all questions can be answered due to time constraints, the submission process ensures that a wide range of topics is considered. The deadline for submissions is likely before the event, so prompt action is advised.

Meet the Panellists

The event brings together a diverse group of journalists with expertise across culture, politics, and economics.

• Zoe Williams: Columnist known for sharp social commentary and political analysis.
• Jonathan Liew: Award-winning sports writer covering major sporting events and issues.
• Lucy Mangan: Columnist and author focusing on culture, family, and society.
• Pippa Crerar: Political editor with deep insights into Westminster.
• John Crace: Political sketch writer renowned for his satirical take on politics.
• Heather Stewart: Economics editor covering financial and economic policy.

Their combined expertise ensures a comprehensive review of 2026 and a thoughtful look ahead.

What to Expect from the Discussion

Expect a lively exchange of ideas, with panellists addressing both pre-submitted questions and topical issues. The first half will likely cover cultural shifts, sports highlights, and social trends, while the second half will focus on political and economic developments.

Audience members can anticipate candid reflections and forward-looking analysis, making it a valuable experience for anyone interested in understanding the year's impact. The background to this story is set out in Is Fellow Gender Neutral? The Answer Writers Keep Missing (Guide). A related thread runs through Oftentimes or often times: the one-word answer most writers get wrong. Earlier coverage in Ash Band Members Reflect on 30 Years of Rock and Roll shows how the argument developed.

How This Event Fits into the Guardian's Engagement Strategy

The Guardian has increasingly used live events to connect with readers, fostering a community around its journalism. This event is part of that effort, offering a two-way conversation rather than a traditional broadcast. A closer look at the same subject appears in Young Nature Writers: Get Published in The Guardian Today. Anyone following the wider picture can start with World Cup Coverage: Top Scorer Guardian Football Writers. The same theme surfaces in Goldman Media Live Q&A: July 30 Event for Members, which takes a different angle.

Such initiatives help build trust and loyalty, as readers feel their voices are heard and their questions valued. Context on how this played out before sits in Live Q&A with Goldman Media Editors: June 30 Event for Xtra Members.

FAQ

As the year winds down, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the journalists who chronicled 2026. Whether you want to probe political decisions, revisit cultural moments, or ask about the economy, your question could shape the conversation.

For those interested in the cultural highlights of the year, the discussion may touch on topics like the 2026 Songs of the Summer: Writers Pick the Best Tracks, which showcases the music that defined the season. Such cultural touchstones often come up when reflecting on the year's zeitgeist.

Don't miss the chance to be part of this engaging event. Submit your question today and join the Guardian's writers as they unpack 2026 and look ahead to 2027.