Our calendar of Literary Festivals and Book Festivals in Cornwall highlights Cornwall’s best-known literary delights as well as some hidden gems you may not yet have discovered.
Cornwall has always inspired writers. How can they not be inspired by her windswept landscapes, breathtaking seascapes, brooding cliffs, desolate moors, granite tors and stone circles? And the people too: hardworking farmers, miners and fishermen – past and present; smugglers and wreckers – some out of greed and some out of necessity; dark and mysterious druids, Arthurian legends, a hint of Atlantis, tales of old kings and other histories; add in our vulnerability to modern-day struggles, especially poverty, housing displacement, homelessness and broken families, there are an infinite number of stories to tell.
It is perhaps, no wonder then, that Cornwall buzzes with literary energy throughout the year. We have become the go to place for intimate poetry readings against dramatic natural backdrops, excited gatherings at which renowned authors share their secrets, interactive workshops sparking creative flair and an array of festivals that invite readers, writers, and creatives to immerse themselves in the written word.
The Cornish literary spirit especially thrives in its fringe events, which bring new and emerging talent to the fore. They’re perfect for readers and writers who are eager to explore what Cornwall’s cultural scene has to offer and to discover new local stories.
If you’re a lifelong bibliophile, an aspiring writer, or simply looking for inspiration amidst historic villages and inspiring views, check out our calendar of book festivals and literary festivals in Cornwall to make sure you don’t miss out!
Book Festivals and Literary Festivals Calendar
| Festival Name | Date | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launceston Poetry Festival (formerly Causley Festival of Arts and Literature) | 30 April – 3 May 2026 | Launceston | Poetry, town square performances and concerts, children’s workshops, open mic poetry sessions, a visual art exhibition and poetry film installation |
| Fowey Festival of Arts & Literature | 1 – 9 May 2026 | Fowey | Honouring the legacy of Daphne du Maurier, the festival offers community storytelling, competitions for budding writers, and a myriad of cultural events |
| Bude Literary Festival | 13 -17 May 2026 | Bude | Walks, talks, workshops, open mic, quizzes, performances, music and comedy |
| The Cornish Indie Book Festival & BOOK FAYRE | 16 – 17 May 2026 | 11-5pm at The Chain Locker, Falmouth TR11 3HH | Championing Cornish talent with local author Book Fayre, Pub Quiz, Book Talks, Workshops and Panel discussions |
| Penzance Literary Festival | 7 – 11 July 2026 | Penzance | Creative writing workshops, performance poetry sessions, and engaging panel discussions with celebrated authors |
| Penzance LitFest Fringe | *Tbc – usually just before main Penzance LitFest event | Penzance | Showcases indie authors, experimental readings, and avant-garde literary performances |
| St Ives September Festival | 12-26 September 2026 | St Ives | An exciting fifteen days of music and arts including poetry readings and author talks (tbc) |
| Looe Festival of Words | 28 September – 4 October 2026 | Looe | Big book fair with narrative workshops, local readings and impromptu book signings |
| Falmouth Book Festival | 19 – 25 October 2026 | Falmouth | Dynamic author talks (including Booker Prize winners), interactive Q&A sessions, writing workshops and live performances |
*Dates are subject to change. Last year’s dates are provided where this year’s are not yet available. Please check each festival’s official website for the latest updates.
In-Depth Festival Highlights
30 April – 3 May 2026
Launceston Poetry Festival (formerly Causley Festival of Arts and Literature)
The well-loved Causley Festival of Arts and Literature has returned with a new name and new focus on Charles’ beloved Cornish home of Launceston and poetry. As well as talks and readings from some of the most celebrated names in British and international poetry, there’ll be free community activities around Launceston including town square performances and concerts, children’s workshops and open mic poetry sessions. The festival also features a visual art exhibition and poetry film installation.
1 – 9 May 2026
Fowey Festival of Arts & Literature
Celebrated annually in early May, the Fowey Festival of Arts & Literature pays homage to the legacy of Daphne du Maurier. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Fowey, the festival offers a rich mix of themed walking tours, author-led readings, debates, community workshops, awards for emerging young talent, community storytelling that bring Cornwall’s rich literary history to life and engaging cultural activities. There are events for visitors of all ages to explore the magic of stories.
13 -17 May 2026
Bude Literary Festival
Bude is a town teeming with talent. And it doesn’t mind inviting big names to its colourful array of annual festivals and events, so expect plenty of local talent and big names at Bude Literary Festival 2026. Enjoy a range of walks, talks, and workshops with local authors. The workshops are well worth hitting up, covering everything from history writing and self-publishing to calligraphy, illustration, and writing lyrics. There’s also a full programme for kids and families, including an ‘interactive character treasure hunt’ that promises fun for all ages. Enjoy the free lunchtime music at the bandstand and various ‘Busk Stops’ throughout the town.
16 -17 May 2026
The Cornish Indie Book Festival & BOOK FAYRE
This Fringe event specifically champions local authors and storytellers. The festival’s relaxed atmosphere nurtures a space where local talent isn’t overshadowed by larger, more established names—instead, it provides a crucial platform to present new voices and narratives woven from the Cornish fabric.
7 – 11 July 2026
Penzance Literary Festival
Celebrating creative expression in all its forms, the Penzance Literary Festival is a place where readers and writers come together to share their dreams and ideas. Scheduled for early July, the event places a spotlight on creative writing and performance poetry. Participants can hone their craft in bespoke workshops and enjoy intimate sessions led by acclaimed writers. This festival is ideal for anyone looking to deepen their love for storytelling in a supportive and engaging environment.
*Tbc – usually just before main Penzance LitFest event
Penzance LitFest Fringe
For those with an appetite for alternative and experimental programming, this fringe event showcases indie and local authors, experimental readings, and avant-garde literary performances. Its relaxed, unpredictable format gives local talent a stage and helps to spotlight new narratives emerging from Cornwall. It appeals especially to those keen on exploring fresh narratives.
12-26 September 2026
St Ives September Festival
An exciting fifteen days of music and arts including poetry readings and author talks. It’s a serene yet stimulating event set against the artistic backdrop of St Ives, appealing to those who appreciate the arts and music community.
28 September – 4 October 2026
Looe Festival of Words
Held in the charming seaside town of Looe, this free celebration is focused on narrative workshops, pop-up readings, and impromptu book signings that attract writers and literature enthusiasts alike. It’s designed to foster an environment where emerging local and established voices come together in a relaxed, supportive setting.
19 – 25 October 2026
Falmouth Book Festival
Set in the heart of Falmouth during mid-October, this vibrant week-long festival transforms the community into a haven for literary enthusiasts. Expect an exciting selection of guest speakers – including internationally acclaimed authors and Booker Prize winners – alongside engaging panel discussions and stimulating workshops that reveal a behind-the-scenes look into the world of writing. The thrill of live performances adds to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere, transforming Falmouth into a dynamic hub of creativity.
North Cornwall Book Festival
Known for its warm, personal ambience, the North Cornwall Book Festival offers an intimate setting where literary dialogue flows freely. Held over a long weekend, during late September. The festival features thoughtful author talks, hands-on creative workshops, as well as local artisan markets and cozy pop-up cafés. Its relaxed vibe ensures that visitors can enjoy every session – and even bump into their favourite writers.
Community Events at Libraries and Independent Bookshops
Cornwall’s literary liveliness is not confined to its festivals. It thrives year-round at local libraries, bookshops, book clubs and craft fairs.
Here’s a closer look at the diverse literary happenings you can expect across the Cornish calendar:
Local Library and Bookshop Events
Across Cornwall, local libraries and independent bookshops, like Falmouth Bookseller, Edge of the World Bookshop, Clemo Books in Newquay, regularly host book launches, signings, and intimate readings. These often feature local authors, providing readers with the chance to connect with their favourite authors and discover new local talent. They also provide writers with a platform to present their work, and opportunities to interact with loyal, local audiences. Most libraries and community halls also regularly host interactive storytelling sessions, book clubs, and readings. Whether you’re an avid reader or aspiring writer, these are wonderful ways to dip into the world of literature.
Seasonal Pop-Up Book Clubs and Readings
Many towns in Cornwall also host seasonal book clubs and pop-up events where local authors, poets, and literature enthusiasts gather for discussions, debates, and communal reading experiences. These events usually explore regional themes, local history, and the distinctive Cornish spirit, and are a source of new discoveries and growing of our literary experience in Cornwall.
Craft Fairs
You can find pop-up author signings and stalls of local author books at many of the craft fairs in Cornwall. These are a great way to chat to local authors and support them by buying their books directly from them.
Cornwall isn’t just a pretty place. It’s also a haven for storytelling, creative expression, and community connection throughout the year. Each festival offers its unique window into the heart of our community. Grassroots gatherings are wonderful for both reinforcing our community ties with each other and for helping to sustain a vibrant literary scene where local creativity is continuously celebrated. The focus on nurturing local voices not only boosts the confidence of emerging writers but also enriches the entire literary ecosystem, as fresh perspectives are celebrated and woven into Cornwall’s cultural narrative.
Whether you’re drawn to traditional book talks or more intimate storytelling or author conversations, Cornwall’s array of festivals and other literary events invites you to explore its cultural depths and partake in a journey of literary discovery.
Embrace the adventure, mark your calendars, and dive into Cornwall’s rich tapestry of literary events. Happy reading and exploring!
