Colombia, a country with a rich literary tradition, is preparing for a year full of events that celebrate reading, writing and the love of letters. Throughout 2024, several cities across the country will host book fairs, poetry festivals, author meet-ups, and more.
January
Manizales International Poetry Festival
Date: January 15 - 20
Location: Manizales, Caldas
The Manizales International Poetry Festival is one of the most important poetry events in Colombia. This festival brings together poets from around the world to share their works, participate in workshops and offer readings to the public. The city of Manizales, known for its temperate climate and vibrant cultural life, becomes the perfect setting for this event.
February
International Meeting of Oral Storytellers of Medellín
Date: February 10 - 14
Location: Medellín, Antioquia
The International Meeting of Oral Storytellers of Medellín is a space where oral traditions and stories told are celebrated. Storytellers from different parts of the world come together to share stories, myths and legends, offering the public a unique and enriching experience. This event is ideal for lovers of oral literature and live storytelling.
March
Bogotá International Book Fair (FILBo)
Date: March 25 - April 8
Location: Bogotá, Cundinamarca
The Bogotá International Book Fair is the largest and most prestigious literary event in Colombia. For two weeks, the Corferias fairgrounds are transformed into a paradise for book lovers. FILBo has the participation of national and international authors, publishers, bookstores and endless activities for all ages. It is an unmissable event for those who enjoy reading and want to discover new works and authors.
April
Pereira Literature Festival
Date: April 20 - 25
Location: Pereira, Risaralda
The Pereira Literature Festival celebrates literature in all its forms, from narrative to poetry and essays. This event features the participation of recognized and emerging writers, who offer talks, workshops and book presentations. Pereira, with its coffee charm and vibrant cultural scene, offers the ideal setting for this festival.
May
Medellín International Poetry Festival
Date: May 1 - 7
Location: Medellín, Antioquia
The Medellín International Poetry Festival is one of the most important poetry festivals in the world. Founded in 1991, this event has been recognized for its work in promoting peace and poetry. For a week, the city of Medellín is filled with poetry readings, workshops and meetings with poets from all over the globe. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of poetry and enjoy the diversity of voices and styles.
June
Bucaramanga Book Fair
Date: June 10 - 16
Location: Bucaramanga, Santander
The Bucaramanga Book Fair is an event that seeks to promote reading and the love of books in the Santander region. This fair has the participation of publishers, bookstores and authors, offering a wide range of activities, from book presentations to writing workshops. Bucaramanga, known as the "Beautiful City", becomes a meeting point for literature lovers in June.
July
Caribbean Literature Festival
Date: July 15 - 20
Location: Cartagena, Bolívar
The Caribbean Literature Festival celebrates the cultural and literary wealth of the Caribbean region. This event brings together writers, poets and storytellers from the region and beyond, offering a platform for the exchange of ideas and the promotion of Caribbean literature. Cartagena, with its colonial charm and rich history, is the perfect setting for this festival.
August
Cali International Book Fair
Date: August 5 - 11
Location: Cali, Valle del Cauca
The Cali International Book Fair is one of the most important literary events in southwestern Colombia. This fair offers a wide range of activities, including book presentations, conferences, workshops and activities for children. Cali, known for its vibrant culture and love of salsa, is filled with letters and literature during this week in August.
September
Bogotá Literature Festival
Date: September 1 - 7
Location: Bogotá, Cundinamarca
The Bogotá Literature Festival is a celebration of literature in all its forms. This event features the participation of national and international writers, who offer talks, workshops and readings to the public. It is an excellent opportunity to discover new works and authors, as well as to enjoy the rich cultural life of the Colombian capital.
October
Barranquilla International Literature Festival
Date: October 10 - 15
Location: Barranquilla, Atlántico
The Barranquilla International Literature Festival celebrates literature in the Atlantic region. This event brings together writers, poets and storytellers from various parts of the world to share their works and participate in literary activities. Barranquilla, with its vibrant cultural life and famous carnival, offers an ideal setting for this festival.
November
Meeting of Pacific Writers
Date: November 15 - 20
Location: Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca
The Pacific Writers Meeting celebrates the literature and culture of the Colombian Pacific region. This event brings together writers, poets and storytellers to share their works and participate in literary activities. Buenaventura, with its cultural richness and natural beauty, becomes the perfect setting for this meeting.
December
Cartagena Poetry Festival
Date: December 10 - 15
Location: Cartagena, Bolívar
The Cartagena Poetry Festival is an event that celebrates poetry in all its forms. This festival brings together poets from different parts of the world to share their works and participate in literary activities. Cartagena, with its colonial charm and rich history, offers an ideal setting for this festival.
Permanent and Other Featured Events
In addition to the events mentioned, Colombia has a series of literary activities that take place throughout the year or on non-specific dates. Some of them are highlighted below:
Readings and Workshops in Public Libraries
Public libraries in Colombia, especially in cities such as Bogotá, Medellín and Cali, regularly organize readings, workshops and meetings with authors. These events are free and open to the public, offering an excellent opportunity to connect with local and global literature.
Reading Clubs
Book clubs are a popular way to enjoy literature in the company of other fans. In cities like Bogotá, Medellín and Cali, there are numerous book clubs that meet monthly to discuss books and share their opinions. These clubs are a great way to discover new works and participate in literary discussions.
Film and Literature Series
Some Colombian cities organize film and literature cycles, where films based on books are screened and debates and discussions about literary works and their film adaptations take place. These events offer a unique perspective on the relationship between film and literature.
Literary gatherings
Literary gatherings are informal gatherings where participants meet to discuss literary topics, share their writings, and enjoy the company of other literature lovers. These gatherings take place in cafes, cultural centers, and other public spaces, and are a great way to connect with the local literary community.
If you are passionate about literature, do not hesitate to mark these dates on your calendar and participate in one of these wonderful events. Colombia awaits you with open arms and endless literary experiences to discover.