Leicester’s annual free book festival, Literary Leicester, has officially launched its 2026 programme, with four days of events taking place next month as part of the city’s Year of Reading.
Now established as a key date in Leicester’s cultural calendar, the festival, between March 18 and 21, offers a packed schedule of author talks, panel discussions and literary events, all free to attend with advance booking. Organisers say the 2026 edition has been designed to reflect the ambition of the Year of Reading, celebrating books as a shared, city-wide experience.
Picture: Louise Doughty
Highlights from this year’s programme include headline conversations with nationally recognised authors, such as Louise Doughty, Sophie Hannah and Jonathan Coe, discussions exploring fiction, non-fiction and poetry, and events focused on reading for pleasure, writing, and the role of books in public life. The festival will also feature sessions spotlighting emerging voices and writers connected to the Midlands, alongside events aimed at encouraging new and returning readers.
A day of crime-focused events will celebrate Agatha Christie @ 50, while other sessions will explore environmental optimism, what it’s like to judge a major book prize, and a playful “vote for the person who most changed the world” discussion.
The festival’s director, Dr Harry Whitehead, said Literary Leicester plays a key role in the Year of Reading celebrations. “This year is about putting reading at the heart of the city. Literary Leicester is free, open to everyone, and designed to show that books and ideas belong to all of us.”
Events will take place across multiple venues in Leicester, reinforcing the festival’s city-wide approach and commitment to accessibility. No specialist knowledge is required, and organisers stress that the programme is intended to be welcoming to readers of all backgrounds and ages.
All events are free, but tickets must be booked in advance. The full programme and booking information are now available via the festival’s ticketing site, with organisers advising audiences to reserve early due to expected demand.
As Leicester marks its Year of Reading, Literary Leicester 2026 aims to bring writers and readers together for four days of conversation, discovery and celebration of books.
For full listings and tickets, visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/literaryleicester
