Byron Writers Festival Celebrates 30 Years of Stories and Ideas

Byron Writers Festival returns to the heart of Byron Bay from 14–16 August 2026, celebrating a milestone 30 years of storytelling, ideas and conversation.

More than 150 writers and thinkers from Australia and around the world will come together across three packed days, with this year’s line-up featuring Trent Dalton, Richard Flanagan, Geetanjali Shree, Melissa Lucashenko, Kerry O’Brien, Richard Fidler, Turia Pitt, Evelyn Araluen, Steve Toltz and many more.

The anniversary program spans author conversations, panel discussions, poetry, politics, memoir, music and big ideas, alongside special feature events including the inaugural Rhoda Roberts Oration.

Beyond the talks, festival-goers can start the day with sunrise yoga or a Saltwater Cleanse, explore the Festival Marketplace at Railway Park and soak up the atmosphere as Byron Bay becomes a vibrant hub of books, culture and conversation.

What: Byron Writers Festival 2026
When: Friday 14 – Sunday 16 August 2026
Where: Various venues across Byron Bay, NSW
Tickets: Three-Day, One-Day and individual Feature Event tickets available
More info:byronwritersfestival.com