Event information
Beginning in 2011, the Open Book Festival has become the city's biggest celebration of writing, authors, and readers, bringing all those interested in literature together under one roof.
The festival attracts top writers and audiences, showcases some of the best of South African writing, with 2026 featuring a variety of events across genres and themes, with particular focus on talks that celebrate the diversity of African stories, both bright and dark. Foodies can enjoy experiences from some of their favourite culinary authors, including Onezwa Mbola, Karen Dudley, Fehmz, and Jane Nshuti. The festival's dedicated marketplace is another big attraction, encouraging people to support local businesses, learn about up-and-coming creatives, and meet beloved authors.
Several influential voices join the Open Book Festival conversation for the first time this year, including Lulama Mali, Kirsten Deane, Jean-Paul Willemse, and Preven Reddy. They join many veterans of the scene, including Pumla Dineo Gqola, Siphokazi Jonas, Maneo Mohale, Athambile Masola, and Mohale Mashigo