Top literary and global book events to explore:
Travellers with a penchant for literature may find solace in attending literary or book festivals around the globe, where they can immerse themselves in a world of words and connect with like-minded individuals. As the Hay Festival commences in Wales this week, readers might consider expanding their horizons and marking their calendars for these outstanding literary events happening in 2025 and 2026.
Norwegian Festival of Literature, Lillehammer (June 2025)
Set against the backdrop of Scandinavia, this annual literary gathering attracts more than 30,000 attendees, making it the largest festival in the region. In June 2025, conference-goers can look forward to engaging with renowned authors, such as Colm Toibin and Haruki Murakami, at this six-day event.
Rio Book Biennial, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (June 2025)
As the current UNESCO World Book Capital, Rio de Janeiro takes its commitment to literature very seriously, hosting the city's largest literary celebration: The Rio Book Biennial. Estimated to draw over half a million attendees in 2025, internationally acclaimed authors, like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Cara Hunter, and Brynne Weaver, have been announced to participate.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, Bali, Indonesia (October 2025)
A trip to Bali offers more than just surf and sand, as evidenced by the four-day Ubud Writers & Readers Festival. Now in its 22nd year, this event delves deep into thematic concerns surrounding the world we inhabit, with author talks, live music, workshops, and late-night readings. Stay tuned for more details on the anticipated lineup, set to be announced in June and July 2025.
Charleston Literary Festival, South Carolina, USA (November 2025)
Having just launched in 2017, the Charleston Literary Festival prides itself on offering intimate venues, allowing attendees to get up close and personal with some of their favorite literary icons. Although the schedule for the 2025 event has yet to be released, previous years have seen notable speakers in attendance, including George Saunders, Joyce Carol Oates, Imani Perry, and Ian McEwan.
Aké Arts and Book Festival, Lagos, Nigeria (November 2025)
Representing Africa's largest literary festival, the Aké Arts and Book Festival will return to Lagos in November 2025. Themed around 'reclaiming truth,' the conference features book chats, art exhibitions, film screenings, and poetry recitals. The list of authors for the upcoming festival has yet to be revealed, but the 2024 roster included Abi Dare, Shani Akilah, and Shubnum Khan.
Galle Literary Festival, Sri Lanka (February 2025, TBC)
Nestled within the historic Galle Fort, this literary event has been celebrated annually since 2007, blending literary discussions, art, music, theatre, and cooking demonstrations for an enriching cultural experience. Details about the 2025 edition have yet to be revealed, but the 2024 speaker lineup included Romesh Ganesekera, Ameena Hussein, and Sunela Jayewardene.
Adelaide Writers' Week, Australia (February-March 2026)
A highlight of the Adelaide Festival, this writers' week offers a jam-packed schedule of events, featuring authors from diverse backgrounds and literary genres. While specific details about the 2026 event are yet to be announced, the 2024 week saw 231 authors participate over six days, including Marcus Zusak, Geraldine Brooks, Anthony Horowitz, and Bettany Hughes.
These literary events provide a wonderful opportunity for travelers to explore new destinations, immerse themselves in a rich literary culture, and engage with some of the world's most renowned authors. Partake in the sweeping beauty of Scandinavia, the vibrant spirit of Rio, the artistic charm of Bali, and the cultural heritage of Lagos, Sri Lanka, and Adelaide, all while expanding one's literary horizons.
Travelers with a combined interest in lifestyle, entertainment, and books may find it enticing to plan their itineraries around notable literary events in 2025 and 2026. For instance, literary enthusiasts can attend the Norwegian Festival of Literature in Lillehammer, where they can connect with authors like Colm Toibin and Haruki Murakami. Additionally, book lovers might also consider visiting the Rio Book Biennial in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to engage with authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Cara Hunter, and Brynne Weaver.
