Byron Writers Festival

Name: Byron Writers Festival
Start: 2026-08-15
End: 2026-08-16
Location: Byron Bay

The Byron Writers Festival is an annual literary event held in Byron Bay, Australia, featuring over 150 authors and speakers. The 2026 festival is scheduled for Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16, taking place across various venues in the town.

Date: Aug 15-16, 2026
Location: Byron Bay

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Event summary

Highlights

Over 150 authors and speakers
Sessions with Osher Günsberg, Trent Dalton, Geetanjali Shree, Richard Flanagan, and Melissa Lucashenko
Thea Astley Address and Rhoda Roberts Oration
Kids' program on Sunday morning

The Byron Writers Festival is a significant literary event that annually brings together more than 150 authors and speakers from Australia and around the world. In 2026, the festival is set to run from Saturday, August 15 to Sunday, August 16, utilizing multiple venues throughout Byron Bay, including the Byron Bay Surf Club, Beach Hotel, and Haven Gallery. This multi-venue setup allows for adaptability, especially following previous years' experiences.

The festival program includes a diverse range of activities such as literary panels, book launches, and a dedicated kids' program on Sunday morning. Notable speakers confirmed for the event include TV presenter and author Osher Günsberg, bestselling author Trent Dalton, Booker Prize winners Geetanjali Shree and Richard Flanagan, and Miles Franklin-winning Indigenous writer Melissa Lucashenko. Other highlights include The Thea Astley Address, the inaugural Rhoda Roberts Oration, and sessions on the free Bay Street Stage.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.