From August to December 2025, numerous literary festivals will take place worldwide — ranging from major international forums to intimate regional gatherings. Each offers a unique program: meetings with renowned authors, workshops, panel discussions, interactive projects, and much more. Contemporary literature is becoming increasingly global and diverse, and festivals are excellent platforms for exchanging ideas and discovering new talents.
Major Literary Festivals Around the World August–December 2025
- Edinburgh International Book Festival (Scotland)
August 9–24
One of the largest and oldest literary festivals featuring thousands of events with global and emerging writers. A special focus on environmental literature and youth programs. - Jaipur Literature Festival (India)
January 25–29 (with ongoing autumn editions)
Known as “the greatest literary show on Earth,” attracting thinkers, poets, and storytellers worldwide with deep dives into social and cultural topics. - Bouchercon (USA)
September 3–7, New Orleans
The world mystery convention dedicated to crime fiction fans and authors, featuring panels, presentations, and contests. - Toronto International Festival of Authors (Canada)
September 19–29
Offers a packed schedule including international stars, debut authors, and interactive reading sessions. - Gothenburg Book Fair (Sweden)
September 25–28
Northern Europe’s largest book fair with a focus on Scandinavian literature, book design, and modern trends. - Black British Book Festival (UK)
October
An important space for Black British literature, cultural exchange, and awareness. - Moscow International Book Fair (Russia)
September 3–7
A key event in Eastern Europe’s book market with new releases and author meetings. - Hay Festival (Wales, UK)
October
Famous for its intellectual lineup and diversity of literary genres.
Key Festivals and Their Highlights
| Festival | Location | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh International Book Festival | Edinburgh, Scotland | August 9–24 | Large scale, eco-literature focus |
| Jaipur Literature Festival | Jaipur, India | January & Autumn | Multilingual, social themes |
| Bouchercon | New Orleans, USA | September 3–7 | Mystery & crime fiction |
| Toronto International Festival of Authors | Toronto, Canada | September 19–29 | International authors, debut focus |
| Gothenburg Book Fair | Gothenburg, Sweden | September 25–28 | Nordic genres, book design |
| Black British Book Festival | UK | October | Black British literature |
| Moscow International Book Fair | Moscow, Russia | September 3–7 | Eastern European market, new titles |
| Hay Festival | Wales, UK | October | Diverse genres, intellectual events |
What to Expect in 2025?
- Meetings with global and local literary stars
- Panel discussions and roundtables on relevant topics
- Workshops by acclaimed authors and publishers
- Book fairs and marketplaces to discover new and rare books
- Literary performances and interactive programs
- Opportunities to participate in contests for debut authors
Tips for Attendees
- Plan your travel ahead, especially for popular festivals.
- Look out for online streams — many events are available virtually.
- Embrace the cultural vibes of each festival’s location — it enriches your literary experience.
- Use festivals for networking and sharing ideas.
Literary festivals are not just celebrations of books but unique events uniting cultures and generations. The second half of 2025 offers numerous chances for inspiration, learning, and communication. Whether you plan to travel or follow online, these festivals will be bright highlights on the world’s cultural map.