Cheltenham Literature Festival 2026
The Cheltenham Literature Festival, renowned as the world’s longest-running literature festival, will mark another milestone from October 14 to October 23, 2026, in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom. Celebrated for its rich history extending over 75 years, this festival continues to lead in showcasing both renowned literary icons and exciting new voices in fiction, poetry, history, and contemporary culture.
The festival’s impressive lineup traditionally features over 400 events and 500 speakers, including bestselling authors, poets, journalists, academics, and cultural commentators. Cheltenham 2026 promises to maintain these high standards, offering a diverse program of author talks, panel discussions, workshops, book signings, debates, and family-friendly activities that encourage literary discovery for visitors of all ages.
A highlight of the festival is “The Big Read” initiative, which engages the public with a selected book that encourages communal reading, dialogue, and events centered on the book’s themes. The 2026 theme is expected to spark creative and educational discourse across communities and schools, sparking a collective literary experience.
The festival also emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, with a range of events designed for different abilities and backgrounds, including BSL-interpreted talks, wheelchair-accessible venues, and events for neurodiverse audiences. Educational programming remains central to Cheltenham’s mission, with tailored workshops and outreach activities that support schools and young people’s engagement in literature.
Cheltenham Literature Festival 2026 is more than a celebration of the written word; it is a vibrant cultural gathering that stimulates thought, challenges perspectives, and fosters community connections through literature and the arts. Visitors gain the opportunity to explore Cheltenham’s elegant Regency architecture, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming atmosphere, making the festival a memorable autumn celebration.
Source: https://www.cheltenhamfestivals.org/festivals/literature-festival
Category: Literature Events
Tag: Author Interactions
