About

Portsmouth BookFest returns for 2024, with a host of literary events taking place across the city - featuring interactive events, workshops and appearances from top names in the literary world.

BookFest has become a favourite event in Portsmouth’s calendar and presents a wide range of events for all ages in a variety of welcoming locations across the city.

The first week of the festival is a children’s week, featuring a Dinosaurs event, writing workshops, Debutots and a special visit from Julia Donaldson’s favourite character, Zog. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

The adults programme will see Dame Sheila Hancock and poet John Agard welcomed to Portsmouth BookFest for the first time. Dame Sheila will be talking about her brilliant book Old Rage and John Agard will be in conversation about his life and poetry. You can also look forwards to hearing from punk poet Atilla the Stockbroker, Dr Leah Broad on female composers, and Dom Joly at the New Theatre Royal - as well as a wide range of talks and workshops.

At most events there is the opportunity to buy a book and have it signed by the author.