2026 Vilnius Book Fair theme announced

The organizers of the 26th Vilnius Book Fair have announced the theme for 2026: “Žodis ieško žmogaus” (The Word Seeks the Person). 

Dovilė Zaidė, president of the Lithuanian Publishers Association (LLA), said the theme continues the fair’s long tradition of creating a space for spirited discussion.

“For many years, the Vilnius Book Fair has been a unique cultural event, providing a space for meaningful dialogue, a meeting point between words and people. 2026 is a reminder that words truly come alive only when they are discovered by people. Our shared responsibility is to preserve this tradition and continue fostering a curious, open-minded, and critically thinking society,” Zaidė said.

Laura Tekorė, Executive Director of LLA, expanded on this theme, emphasizing that the concept calls for discussion of responsibility for the spoken word and for preserving humanity.

“This is a broad theme that includes not only literature, but also culture, history, and politics. We will explore it in book presentations, discussions, and meetings with authors, creating a space for lively dialogue,” Tekorė said.

Lithuania’s largest book fair is scheduled to take place from Feb. 26 to March 1, 2026, at the Litexpo Exhibition Center in Vilnius.

Litexpo director Viliaus Vaičekausko added that the choice of the theme was not random. Words have accompanied humanity from the first stories told around the campfire to modern digital formats.

“The Vilnius Book Fair is a place where words truly find people. Year after year, the event strengthens this unique connection. For me, the fair is like a living city of literature and music, where every word has its home and every visitor has their own story,” Vaičekausko said.

The Music Hall, one of the key locations of the fair, will have a special significance. New music releases will be presented here, live performances will take place, meetings with musicians and panel discussions will be held.

Agnė Begetė, director of the association, stressed that music and literature create synergy.

“Music, like literature, opens up inner worlds and creates a space where we can recognize ourselves and others. This combination gives rise to an even deeper dialogue, where stories come to life and emotions become tangible.”

The Vilnius International Book Fair is the largest book fair in the Baltic States, which has been held since 2000 and attracts over 65,000 visitors every year.

In 2025, the fair was visited by over 55,900 people, and more than 320 events took place. The organizers are the Lithuanian Publishers Association, the Agata Association, and the Litexpo Exhibition Center.

RELATED: First International Literary Congress held in Vilnius

Images: Pauliaus Peleckio/BNS

Copy editing: Joy Tataryn