The Sydney Writers’ Festival is back this month, returning from 17–24 May 2026 for its 29th year—and it promises to be one of its most compelling programs yet. Bringing together a vibrant community of readers, writers and thinkers, the Festival continues to cement its reputation as one of the world’s leading literary events.
Under the 2026 theme “Show Me the Truth,” this year’s Festival will feature more than 200 events and over 250 authors, spanning genres, cultures and perspectives. From Booker Prize winners to global thought leaders, contemporary storytellers and beloved Australian voices, the program invites audiences to engage deeply with ideas shaping our world today.
Artistic Director Ann Mossop describes the Festival as a highlight of Sydney’s cultural calendar. With a broad-ranging lineup designed to spark conversation and curiosity, she notes that audiences can expect “powerful ideas and enthralling conversations” from some of the most influential writers of our time—including Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales and literary heavyweights such as Susan Choi, Yann Martel and Roddy Doyle.
The enthusiasm is already clear. CEO Brooke Webb shared that ticket sales have surged following the program announcement, with a particularly strong response to opening weekend events. With momentum building, the Festival is set to deliver another dynamic and engaging week across Sydney.
Highlights to Watch
This year’s program offers something for every kind of reader:
- Maria Reva presents Endling, her Booker-longlisted debut filled with dark humour and inventive storytelling.
- Jimmy Wales explores how to rebuild trust in a misinformation age in The Seven Rules of Trust.
- Bora Chung brings chilling, socially sharp horror in The Midnight Timetable.
- Amitav Ghosh and Luke Kemp delve into history’s lessons in Big Histories.
- Roddy Doyle reflects on his celebrated career, from The Commitments to his latest work.
- Susan Choi and Yann Martel offer powerful new novels examining family, myth and identity.
Festival favourites also return, including “Bringing the Past to Life” and “State of the Art: The Booker Prize,”alongside thought-provoking panels like “Brave Conversations: When Words Offend,” tackling some of today’s most pressing social questions.
For journalism enthusiasts, “The Story that Changed My Life” brings together leading reporters to share defining moments from their careers, while food lovers can celebrate Stephanie Alexander’s iconic The Cook’s Companion at its 30th anniversary event.
A Celebration of Words and Connection
At its heart, the Sydney Writers’ Festival is about connection—between writers and readers, ideas and action, stories and truth. It’s a reminder of the power of words to inform, challenge and inspire.
With tickets still available for many sessions, now is the perfect time to be part of this extraordinary literary experience.
For the full program and bookings, visit swf.org.au or call 02 9256 4200.
