This year’s headline guests include Mishal Husain, Paul Sinton-Hewitt, Daisy Fancourt and Natalie Haynes. A wide range of speakers, writers and performers are also set to appear, with events designed to explore the role of reading, writing and open discussion.
Organiser Matt Holland said the focus this year goes beyond entertainment.
“Words are powerful. We can use them to make sense of life,” he said.
The festival has aligned its messaging with 2026 being designated as the National Year of Reading, positioning the week as part of a broader cultural conversation. Events will run from the opening Dawn Chorus in Lawn Woods on Monday 4th May through to the Festival Finale on Sunday 10th May.
Organisers say the programme allows residents to attend individual events or take part across the full week. Venues will include the Arts Centre, Central Library, Lydiard Park, Christ Church, Lower Shaw Farm and Swindon Hub.
By spreading events across multiple sites, the festival encourages visitors to explore different parts of the town. The programme features author talks, panel discussions, workshops, performances and community-led sessions.
Returning favourites include the Dawn Chorus, the Flash Fiction Slam and a Children and Families Day. Speaking at the launch event, the Mayor of Swindon, Fay Howard, praised the festival’s broad appeal and its ability to draw audiences to venues across the town.
The festival is supported by Arts Council England and works in partnership with a range of local organisations. Now firmly established on the regional cultural calendar, the event continues to attract national names while maintaining a strong local focus.
For one week in May, literature and ideas will once again take centre stage across Swindon.
