Manchester Literature Festival

Manchester Literature Festival has grown considerably in size and stature since it debuted back in 2006. Held annually in October, it’s now known as one of the north’s leading festivals for book-lovers.

Many of the biggest names in literature have appeared on its stages over the years including Margaret Atwood, Seamus Heaney, Martin Amis,  Zadie Smith, Armistead Maupin . . . the list is long and impressive.

Add to that thought-leaders such as Angela Davis, Gloria Steinem, and Vivienne Westwood, plus hugely popular commercial fiction writers such as Neil Gaiman and Val McDermid, and you get a sense of the kind of quality it attracts.

There’s also a lively programme of events for children and families including activity days, workshops, shows and storytelling.

Events take place in a variety of venues, mainly in the city centre, with some further afield.

Manchester Literature Festival 2023

This year’s festival will be held from Friday 6 October to Sunday 22 October 2023. The 40+ events will include intimate ‘in conversation’ evenings, live performances, new commissions, workshops, and fun activities for children and families. The line-up will be announced later in the year.