European Writers’ Festival 2026

European Writers’ Festival returns to the British Library for its third edition

16–17 May 2026 | British Library, London

The European Writers’ Festival returns to the British Library on 16–17 May 2026 for its third edition, bringing together 26 writers from across Europe for a weekend of conversation, performance and debate exploring literature, society and shared European concerns.

Hosted by the British Library, the festival is organised by EUNIC London (European Union National Institutes for Culture) in partnership with the European Literature Network, the EU Delegation to the UK and the European Parliament Liaison Office in the UK. Together the partners will present a rich and diverse literary programme that reflects the breadth of voices, languages and perspectives shaping Europe today.

Over two days, the festival will feature panel discussions and readings and a special headline event on Saturday evening., with writers engaging audiences on themes such as personal and collective histories, urban life, migration and belonging, nature and environment, truth and secrecy, coming of age, freedom of expression, democracy and the experience of living in a time of great upheaval.

Among the internationally acclaimed authors taking part are Nino Haratischwili, Vincenzo Latronico, Gonçalo M. Tavares, Sara Stridsberg, Christy Lefteri, Jáchym Topol, Fiston Mwanza Mujila, Wendy Erskine and Artem Chapeye, alongside many debut authors and other leading voices from across Europe. Together, they represent a wide range of literary styles, languages and traditions, and celebrate the role of translation in their international success. 

Now in its third edition, the European Writers’ Festival has established itself as a key platform for European literary exchange in the UK, fostering dialogue between writers, readers, translators, publishers, and cultural institutions, and recognising literature’s role in shaping public conversation.

Dates: 16–17 May 2026
Location: British Library, London
Partners: EUNIC London, British Library, European Literature Network, EU Delegation to the UK and European Parliament Liaison Office UK.
Programming: Rosie Goldsmith (Chair) with Bee Rowlatt, Noreen Masud, and Toby Lichtig

More info on programme and tickets here.

The third edition of the European Writers’ Festival has now come to a close. Thank you to everyone who joined us. If you would like to learn more about the project and its outcomes, you can read the full report below.