40th anniversary of Book Festival announced
Join the Edinburgh International Book Festival from 12-28 August to celebrate the joy of words as they mark their 40th year. With over 500 events, and over 100 of those for children and young adults, there's something for everyone.
It’s an incredible forty years since the Book Festival opened in 1983. Since then, it’s become widely recognised as one of the greatest annual literary celebrations anywhere in the world. The Book Festival is a joyful, creative, interactive celebration of the written (and spoken) word. And with authors joining us from all corners of the world, there’s something for everyone.
This year’s programme is an invitation to joy. It’s overflowing with uplifting, optimistic thinking and an innovative selection that focuses on solutions rather than problems, on big ideas rather than tired divisions. There's so much to be excited about this Festival, with events inside and out, featuring writers both established and up-and-coming.
Events for everyone
This year the programme has more than 400 live events, including 100+ created for children and families, and more than 100 events available to watch online. There are events inside and out, events that are free, and some that are late night. The events are dotted throughout Edinburgh College of Art, and you’ll find maps and signposting on site.
- ‘Climate Positive’ is a core theme in our programme this year and Greta Thunberg will be joining us at The Edinburgh Playhouse for a special event.
- Join in the conversation with literary greats like Ian McEwan, Ali Smith, and Colson Whitehead.
- Be inspired by thinkers including Mikaela Loach, Simon Schama, and Fergal Keane.
- Find out ‘what makes a writer’ with Festival favourites Val McDermid, Bernardine Evaristo, and Jackie Kay.
- Enjoy well-known names Judy Murray, Rob Delaney, and Sara Pascoe.
- Delight in the imaginations of author-artists pushing boundaries with David Shrigley, Charlie Mackesy, and Simone Seales ……..and many more
Meet your favourite authors, and discover new ones
Join us in the Festival Village, or online, to hear some of the most creative thinkers of our time in conversation: discussing not just their books, but also the big issues facing society today. There will be lots of opportunities to get involved. Ask questions during the events or speak face-to-face with authors and other audience members in the queue when you get your book signed. You can buy each book from the Festival Bookshop, brought to you by Waterstones, located in the old Fire Station.
Family fun
The Book Festival Village features plenty of spaces for kids and grown-ups to have fun together, including a family play area and our Baillie Gifford Storytime Yurt, where there are free events and hands-on activities throughout the Festival. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of one of your favourite characters wandering off the page and into the real world…
The Festival Bookshop brought to you by Waterstones
Step away from the bustle of the Festival Village to explore the bookshop. Tucked inside the characterful old Fire Station on Lauriston Place, there are titles here for everyone: children, teenagers, and adults alike. This year, the Festival Bookshop is brought to you by Waterstones and the shelves will be filled with an array of titles from visiting authors, related literature, and local publishers. You’ll also find exclusive copies you won’t get anywhere else.
Book signings
Most authors sign copies of their books immediately after their event in the Book Signing Tent in the Courtyard. Copies of their books will be available to buy. There’s no need to reserve a place for signings, simply turn up and join the queue. Check the board outside the tent for timings.
Make a day (or a night) of it
A day out at the Book Festival wouldn’t be complete without a tasty treat. There’s a range of places to pick up a snack, drink, or something more substantial. If you’d rather bring your own picnic, there’s plenty of space to spread out on the grass. We’re hoping the sun will be shining, but if not, you can relax in the indoor café and enjoy views over the Courtyard. Enjoy activities and events for all ages including daily free activities, hands-on crafts, and conversations for teens. The Festival Bar is open late, and it’s a great place to meet up, serving a range of wines, spirits, and beers.