Literary festivals are my kind of adventure: thought-provoking panels, charming book stalls, unexpected author encounters, and the buzz of ideas in the air. One moment I’m sipping coffee while chatting with a debut novelist, the next I’m lining up for a keynote with a literary legend.
I’m under a marquee at the foot of the Alps, notebook in hand, caught between the scent of fresh paperbacks and a breeze off Lake Geneva—all during the dreamy charm of Switzerland’s Le Livre sur les Quais. Who knew a book festival could feel like a vacation for both the mind and soul?
Just a train ride away is the iconic Edinburgh International Book Festival, where I get lost in cobbled lanes between readings and let the city’s literary spirit sweep me up. For pure magic, I’ll always love Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in Bali—set among lush rice paddies and temples, it’s equal parts inspiration and escape. And when I want a deep dive into Southern storytelling, The Southern Festival of Books in Nashville hits all the right notes with its warm hospitality and big ideas.
"Books, bold ideas, and beautiful places? Count me in."
Unique Literary Festivals Around the World:
First: Celebrate Words Without Borders: Experience Global Voices at the Berlin International Literature Festival
Second: Meet the Best in Books: If You Love Indie and Iconic Authors, Then Head to the Brooklyn Book Festival
Third: Dive Into a World of Stories: Explore South America’s Literary Capital at the Buenos Aires Book Festival
Fourth: Step Into the Story: Join Big Ideas and Bright Minds at the Cheltenham Literature Festival
Fifth: Challenge and Inspire: Engage With Cutting-Edge Thought at the Conrad Festival
Sixth: Walk Among Literary Legends: Discover the Magic of the Edinburgh International Book Festival
Seventh: Connect Across Cultures: If You Crave Stories from Around the World, Then Attend the Emirates Airline Festival
Eight: Feed Your Curiosity: Celebrate Ideas, Books, and Art at the Hay Festival
Ninth: Ubud Writer’s and Reader’s Festival
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What are literary festivals?
- Literary festivals are held annually in many corners of the globe and attract huge numbers of readers, writers, playwrights, and publishers who come to spend a week or weekend exchanging ideas with like-minded people.
- Can you meet authors at literary festivals?
- Most of the festivals include opportunities to meet your favorite authors and brush up your writing skills (aided by enthusiastic professional authors).
- Do literary festivals offer activities for children and young adults?
- In order to foster a true love of reading, most of the festivals offer extensive programs of story-telling and other fun activities for children and young adults.
Plan Your Trip
