Inaugural Southern Book Fair 2024 to kick off

Launched by the Commonwealth Book Publishers Network, and in conjunction with the internationally acclaimed Galle Literary Festival, the inaugural Southern Book Fair will be held next year, from January 19th to 28th.

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.

The Southern Book Fair is operating this year in partnership with the world-renowned Galle Literary Festival (25th to 28th January), first established in 2005 as a global gathering for literary enthusiasts, poets, musicians, artists and culinary experts from all over the world.

With the return of the internationally acclaimed Galle Literary Festival, between the months of January and April next year, a remarkable confluence of the world’s foremost authors, book publishers, artists, musicians, and gourmet chefs will converge for an unprecedented promotion of Sri Lanka on the international stage. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Galle Fort 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.

Together, we can bring attention to Galle as a destination for literary and cultural enthusiasts, attracting both local and international visitors, and celebrating Sri Lanka’s vital creative spirit. Never has there been a better time to immerse yourself in 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.