The Malta Book Festival 2026 is bringing together book lovers, authors, publishers and cultural enthusiasts at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) in Ta' Qali, between 4 and 8 November.
Organised by the National Book Council, the festival is the foremost event dedicated to books and literature in Malta's cultural calendar. This year's edition, held under the theme 'Uncover the Story', is bringing together thousands of visitors, around 50 exhibitors and renowned international guests, while providing an important platform for the literary and publishing sectors.
An important initiative associated with the festival is the book voucher scheme, through which children and young people aged between 5 and 16 are given a voucher to purchase books. This initiative, which has received a very positive response, will continue to be offered annually, with the aim of encouraging reading among younger generations while giving priority to books by local authors and publications by local publishers. The voucher scheme is a manifesto measure which commits to continuing the annual distribution of these vouchers to further strengthen Malta's book sector while providing children with an incentive to read more.
The festival offers people of all ages, particularly young people and children, an opportunity to discover new authors, explore different literary genres and develop a greater interest in reading. At the same time, initiatives such as the voucher scheme help strengthen the local publishing sector and provide continued support to Maltese talent.
The Minister for Youths, Wellbeing and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Omar Farrugia said that it was a pleasure to be present at the National Book Festival, where he could see children and young people attending with their families, friends and schoolmates, demonstrating their love for books and reading. “I believe it is also our responsibility as adults to nurture a love for reading and books in our children from an early age," the Minister said.
The Chief Executive of the National Book Council, Mark Camilleri, explained that the festival is open to everyone, free of charge and accessible to all. “Children have vouchers which they can redeem with whichever exhibitor they choose over the coming five days," Camilleri said.
He also highlighted the variety of activities on offer, explaining that there would be something to appeal to everyone, including interviews with local and international authors, as well as theatrical performances.
Events and initiatives such as these continue to strengthen a culture of reading as an important part of education, personal development and cultural participation.
