Sydney Writers’ Festival 2026: A Global Celebration of Storytelling Comes to Sydney

Sydney Writers' Festival CEO Brooke Webb

 and artistic director Ann Mossop

Every May, Australia’s literary capital bursts into life as writers, readers and creative thinkers gather for one of the country’s most anticipated cultural events. The 2026 edition of the Sydney Writers' Festival promises to be one of the most exciting yet, unveiling a remarkable program featuring more than 200 events and over 250 authors from across Australia and around the world.

Running from 17 to 24 May, the festival will transform Sydney into a week-long celebration of storytelling, ideas and cultural exchange. With 39 international guests joining more than 220 Australian writers, audiences can look forward to engaging conversations covering fiction, non-fiction, poetry, journalism, politics, memoir and children’s literature.

A Week of Ideas, Literature and Cultural Conversation

The Sydney Writers' Festival has built a global reputation for bringing together some of the world’s most influential writers and thinkers. The 2026 program continues this tradition with an impressive lineup of authors whose work shapes contemporary literature and public debate.

Throughout the festival week, audiences will have the opportunity to attend panel discussions, author talks, workshops and special literary events. These sessions explore everything from global politics and investigative journalism to fantasy worlds, family stories and thought-provoking memoirs.

For visitors travelling to Sydney, the festival offers an ideal cultural experience alongside the city’s famous harbour, beaches and vibrant arts scene.

International Bestselling Authors Take Centre Stage

R. F. Kuang

Among the headline international guests is acclaimed fantasy writer R. F. Kuang, whose work continues to shape the modern fantasy genre. Festival audiences will hear about her creative journey and the inspiration behind her latest novel Katabasis.

Crime fiction fans can look forward to an appearance by Mick Herron, author of the internationally popular Slow Horses series. His session will explore the continuing success of the espionage novels and the latest instalment in the series.

Investigative journalist Patrick Radden Keefe will present a compelling discussion about his powerful body of work, including his bestselling nonfiction writing and a special session exploring his acclaimed book Say Nothing.

Global Leaders and Influential Voices

Beyond fiction, the festival also welcomes influential global thinkers. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will discuss leadership, public service and her deeply personal memoir A Different Kind of Power.

Another notable guest is Jimmy Wales, who will explore the importance of trust in the digital age and how collaborative knowledge platforms continue to shape global information sharing.

These conversations offer festival audiences rare insights into leadership, technology and the changing dynamics of global communication.

Award-Winning Literary Voices from Around the World

David Szalay

The 2026 festival also brings together a remarkable group of internationally recognised literary voices.

Booker Prize-winning and shortlisted authors appearing at the festival include David Szalay, whose acclaimed novel Flesh won the 2025 Booker Prize, and celebrated Irish writer Roddy Doyle, who will reflect on his long and influential literary career.

Readers can also hear from celebrated novelists including Susan Choi, Yann Martel—best known for Life of Pi—and renowned Indian author Amitav Ghosh, whose work spans both powerful fiction and insightful non-fiction.

Other notable voices include Bora Chung, known for her distinctive blend of speculative and horror fiction, Tayari Jones exploring themes of family and identity, and acclaimed crime writer S. A. Cosby.

A Festival for Readers of All Ages

The festival also celebrates storytelling for younger audiences. Internationally beloved children’s author Dav Pilkey, creator of Captain Underpants and Dog Man, will present a lively and interactive session where he draws his famous characters live on stage.

These family-friendly events ensure that the next generation of readers can experience the excitement of literature in a fun and engaging environment.

Experience Sydney Through Literature

With hundreds of events taking place across the city, the Sydney Writers' Festival offers visitors the perfect opportunity to combine literary discovery with a memorable travel experience.

From thought-provoking panel discussions to intimate author conversations, the festival invites audiences to explore ideas, stories and perspectives from across the globe while enjoying the cultural energy of Sydney.

For readers, writers and travellers alike, the 2026 festival promises a rich and inspiring celebration of the written word.

Sydney Writers’ Festival

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Website: https://www.swf.org.au

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