Edinburgh International Book Festival

Discover new writers and meet your favourite authors at creative writing workshops, book signings and author talks – the Edinburgh International Book Festival has it all.

Edinburgh International Book Festival returns from 09 to 24 August 2025.

About the Edinburgh International Book Festival 

Founded in 1983, the Edinburgh International Book Festival began as a small collection of “meet the author” events. Since then it has grown from strength to strength, with over 700 events taking place each year.

Whether you’re an avid reader, or just like picking up a book now and then, there’s something for everyone, and every age, at this special festival.

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Inspiring young minds

With the opportunity to delve deeper into some of their favourite books, and with so many events bringing together authors and their young readers, the Book Festival is arguably one of the world’s best book and reading events for young people.

The renowned Children’s Programme features an exciting programme to delight, educate and entertain young minds. Take your pick from a range of subjects, including the natural world, art, history and astronomy.

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Meet the author

At the Writer’s Retreat leading authors offer unique insights into some of their books.

Delve deeper into the craft of the writer and get even more enjoyment out of your reading with these informative yet fun sessions. You don’t need any prior knowledge to take part, so pop along and see what you can uncover.

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The First Book Award

The Book Festival is a fantastic place to uncover new writers and works to fall in love with.

It’s also an excellent platform for new writers to gain recognition as all the debut novels, novellas and short story collections are entered into the Festival’s First Book Award.

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Top thinkers and world-beaters

Don’t forget to save your spot on some of the most popular events with authors like Sir Ian Rankin, Marian Keyes, Alexander McCall Smith and Val McDermid taking to the stage. 

Alongside Booker prize winners and best-selling authors, past programmes have welcomed world leaders, top achievers, and even Hollywood superstars to the Festival including Helena Bonham Carter, Alan Cumming and Brian Cox. 

Be sure to stop by the Festival’s independent bookshops, which stock a wide range of titles for both adults and children, including some exclusive to the Festival. Browse at your leisure, find something stimulating to read, then spend a few hours getting lost in the joys of a good book.

Discover more about the Edinburgh International Book Festival 

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