As every year, the iconic Tour & Taxis center is transformed into a veritable capital of words for the Brussels Book Fair. For this 2026 edition, from March 26 to 29, the Brussels institution is opening its doors to an exclusive program featuring world-renowned authors and inspiring activities. Beyond literary encounters, the Fair plays an active role through days dedicated to students and professionals, notably with the “Objectif Lire” initiative. Between youth competitions and participation in the Prix du Roman Noir, discover behind the scenes of an event where passion meets solidarity and transmission.
The 55th edition of the Book Fair: Brussels’ literary epic
The first Brussels Book Fair was launched in 1969 with the aim of creating an international book fair in the capital. Today, this literary event has become an unmissable institution in March, held in the industrial setting of Tour & Taxis. It is a cultural event open to all, where you can discover and share a common passion and even take part in the activities organized during these four days.
© flb.be
Once again this year, the program promises to be particularly rich. On the various stages of the Gare Maritime, international headliners such as Andrzej Sapkowski, the “Polish Tolkien,” and Finnish novelist Satu Rämö will rub shoulders with French-speaking literary ambassadors, from Amélie Nothomb to David Foenkinos. Between book signings, lively debates, and various workshops, hundreds of authors and exhibitors will bring this Book Fair to life, much to the delight of its visitors.
Beyond words: an event committed to youth and solidarity
But the Brussels Book Fair is also an essential event for those involved in the literary sector. The “professional days” provide an opportunity to analyze new teaching tools and materials, while the “school days” welcome thousands of children to spark their curiosity and bring them closer to literature. This commitment to passing on knowledge is reflected in “Objectif Lire,“ a call for donations that promises to combat illiteracy and poverty with the aim of providing access to reading for all.
Finally, creativity will also be honored with the “Un livre pour”(A BookFor) competition, inviting young people aged 17 to 25 to share their favorite book in various formats. This challenge is similar to the Prix du Roman Noir, which allows new French-speaking writers to see their work in bookstores across the country. This participatory challenge is open to all, with the results to be announced in 2027. It is further proof of the Brussels fair’s flair for discovering new talent. Between educational activities and awards, the Brussels Book Fair once again asserts itself as the cultural epicenter of the capital.
👉 Don’t forget to reserve your free ticket for the event, which is required for admission!