Europe’s vast range of literary events includes some of the oldest and most venerated in the world. Use the search menu below to find events across the continent.
The International Literature Festival, opened in 2004, is organized by the International Erich Fried Society and the Literaturhaus Wien (House of Literature Vienna). Every year in March, authors from Europe, overseas and Austria meet in Vienna to discuss socio-politically relevant topics in readings, lectures and talks. All forms of literature are welcome, from comics to poetry. Inspired by Erich Fried, a political poet, the festival addresses contemporary issues and motivates cross-border exchange.
The Salzburg Literature Festival has been taking place since 2008. During five days in May, literature enthusiasts can encounter literature in all its forms of expression in a wide variety of places across Salzburg. In readings from novels, as well as discussions about non-fiction and cross-referencing with poetry and music, artists and audiences come together for an exchange.
Austria’s largest literature festival takes place for one week in October and is centered around the country’s libraries. More than 300 events can be attended, including readings, literature walks, book flea markets, literary cafés and even escape rooms. There will also be the opportunity to participate in workshops and to learn how to read ancient writings, as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at the country’s largest library during daily guided tours. The events will take place at various locations throughout the country.
Buch Wien has been held in Vienna since 1948 and takes place at the Vienna Exhibition grounds in November since 2008. It is considered one of the most important events in the Austrian publishing industry and includes numerous stage discussions, panel discussions and lectures by over 500 German-speaking and international authors and experts from several fields, such as politics, culture, science and business.
Rund um die Burg is a two-day Viennese literature festival that has been held annually in May since 1992. The concept consists of a nonstop reading. At half-hour intervals, different authors take turns to read from their works, without interruption for 24 hours. The event is free of charge and usually takes place in a large tent between the Burgtheater and Café Landtmann and in other adjacent locations.
