APRIL 22—26, 2026
Daring to Dream a Braver Tomorrow
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Our 2026 theme, COURAGE, explores the choices we make to take risks, bridge divides, and shape a shared future... together. Through music, art, and conversation, we’ll examine how courage is cultivated: in our society, our communities, and our daily lives -- to spark dialogue and dream beyond the limits of what seems possible.
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What does Courage mean to you?
Where are bravery and resilience most needed in our lives, our neighborhoods, or our society? Where have you seen neighbors make brave connections and spark dialogue? Your insights on how courage shows up in your life will help shape the conversations that will define this year’s Festival.
A FESTIVAL
ABOUT THE
FUTURE OF
COMMUNITY
IDEAS BY DAY
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Communities need big ideas and passionate people willing to step and bring them to life. Tom Tom connects these engaged citizens and leaders across backgrounds and sectors to dream big. Talks, workshops, and keynotes facilitate connections, build trust, and inspire action.
CELEBRATION BY NIGHT​
We believe in having fun, and the Festival is a testament to it. Some of Charlottesville’s biggest and most memorable celebrations happen here. Whether it’s a massive Downtown Mall Block Party, multi-genre concerts, or fabulous dance events, it’s all about bringing the community together to build friendship and trust.
CO-CREATE WITH US
COMMUNITY PARTNERS​
Our schedule is catalyzed by community-led workshops, performances, installations, talks, and events that showcase amazing work here and across the nation.
Applications close Nov. 7.
CONFERENCE CREATOR
Tom Tom is built with the community. Through our 2026 Conference Creator, we invite you to help shape the sessions, speakers, and stories that will define this year’s Festival. Together, we’ll explore how technology, business, democracy and society intersect to shape the future of our communities.
SUPPORT TOM TOM​
While some of the Tom Tom Foundation’s programs are ticketed, many are donation-based or entirely free! Donations and sponsorships are a direct investment in the community, allowing thousands of engaged citizens to participate in an accessible, inclusive, and creative program to imagine a brighter future for Charlottesville.
