Sydney Writers’ Festival returns 17–24 May with a packed program of conversations, workshops and family‑friendly events. The festival is hosted across multiple venues including Carriageworks, Sydney Town Hall and the State Library of NSW. Whether you’re planning a full day out or dipping into a single session, here’s our take on 6 great ways to make the most of the festival.
1. Spend a Saturday at the Festival for $80
If you want a full festival experience without the planning, this curated Saturday itinerary is a perfect place to start. For $80, you can move between headline talks, panel discussions and pop‑up moments at Carriageworks.
Saturday 23 May
Carriageworks
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2. Don’t miss the SWF Great Debate: We Can’t Handle the Truth
A festival favourite returns to Sydney Town Hall with a sharp, funny and fast‑moving debate featuring some of Australia’s most entertaining thinkers and performers. Expect big arguments, bigger laughs and a packed house.
Thursday 21 May
Sydney Town Hall
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3. Test your knowledge at the Good Weekend Quiz
One of the festival’s most popular events is back. Hosted live at Carriageworks, the Good Weekend Quiz brings together writers, journalists and audience teams for a fast‑paced, good‑humoured battle of wits.
Saturday 23 May
Carriageworks
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4. Browse the Bookshop at Carriageworks and Sydney Town Hall
No festival visit is complete without a stop at the onsite bookshop at both Carriageworks and Sydney Town Hall. Pop by to find new releases, festival titles, staff picks and books by every writer in the program. There will also be book signings by festival authors.
19–24 May
Carriageworks
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5. Bring the kids for free activities
Families are well‑catered for with a full program of free events for kids across multiple venues. From storytelling and illustration workshops to hands‑on creative activities, young readers can explore big ideas in a fun, welcoming space.
Saturday 24 May
Carriageworks
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6. Enjoy a bumper line‑up of award‑winning reads
Dive deeper into the stories shaping this year’s festival and explore this year's award‑winning books. From Trojan War epics and sharp political thrillers to intimate memoirs and bold climate change writing, there's a bumper stack of celebrated reads to explore across multiple venues. Grab a multi‑pack and enjoy standout titles across multiple venues.
17 - 24 May
Various locations
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The City of Sydney is a major supporter of the Sydney Writers’ Festival. The festival is the kind of cultural project we’re proud to support. It plays a vital role in shaping Sydney’s creative identity and connects local audiences with ideas from around the world.
Sydney Writers’ Festival runs 17–24 May across the city, with sessions for every age and interest. Explore the program and start planning your visit.
Published 11 May 2026
