Largest Free Literary Festival

August 13th, 2025

Vancouver’s biggest all-FREE literary celebration returns this fall. Word Vancouver (Sept. 14–20, 2025) offers nearly 40 free events citywide, ending with the Main Event Day on Saturday, Sept. 20 at UBC Robson Square and the plaza beside the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Expect an unforgettable Saturday:

• Birds & Books — Cecily Nicholson, Elaine Avila & Melissa Hafting share how birds shape their work. 
• Pitch Perfect — Editors Shashi Bhat, Michelle Cyca & Stephen Smysnuik give insider tips for aspiring writers. 
• Children’s Tent — Readings & activities for families (bring the kids!). 
• Guest Curators — Kayla MacInnis (Indigenous) & Candie Tanaka (LGBTQIA2S+). 
• Live Podcast Recording. 
• Silent Writing Room — a rare chance for quiet reflection in the city. 

Across the week you’ll also find Kevin Chong, Kevin Spenst, Timothy Taylor, and Cecily Nicholson alongside emerging voices in poetry, fiction, and non-fiction.

FREE — no tickets required. See the full schedule at wordvancouver.ca.
Raffle tickets (up to $10,000 prize): wordvancouver.rafflenexus.com
Donate: wordvancouver.ca/donate
Volunteer: Sign up here

Come for the readings, stay for the community — and don’t miss your chance to be part of Vancouver’s biggest FREE literary event.

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