Launched by the Commonwealth Book Publishers Network, the inaugural Southern Book Fair will be held next year, from 19th to 28th January, 2024. A vibrant celebration of literature, the Southern Book Fair expresses Sri Lanka’s cultural diversity, nurturing the spirit of creativity and collaboration, promoting innovation and accessibility, and igniting a renewed passion for literature among not only our own people, but the wider global community.
Located at the heart of the iconic Galle Fort, the Southern Book Fair will offer a platform for publishers, editors, aspiring authors, and avid readers to develop new partnerships, fostering opportunities to celebrate our own rich, literary heritage, and introducing contemporary works from diverse voices around the world.
With the return of the internationally acclaimed and much anticipated Galle Literary Festival, between the months of January and April next year, a remarkable convergence of the world’s foremost authors, book publishers, artists, musicians, and gourmet chefs will combine for an unprecedented promotion of Sri Lanka on the international stage. Set against the stunning backdrop of the historical Galle Fort which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the festival features a mix of renowned and emerging writers, poets, and thinkers, and is internationally recognized for its inclusive and diverse programming; an unmissable highlight for both locals and visitors from abroad.
The academic community’s attention will focus on Galle as the destination for literary and cultural enthusiasts, attracting both local and international visitors, and celebrating Sri Lanka’s impressive creative spirit. There has never been a better time for scholastics and book lovers to delveinto a world of creativity, engaging in panel discussions on literary topics, participating in workshops and seminars on writing and publishing, and networking with other literary professionals.
