World of Books 2026

World of Books Prague 2026 is the 31st edition of the international book fair and literary festival, taking place from 14 to 17 May 2026 in the Křižík Pavilions and hall on Bruselská Street at the Exhibition Grounds in Holešovice. This year's programme focuses on two main themes – Europe and History – inspired by Milan Kundera's quote "The struggle of man against power is the struggle of memory against forgetting." The festival will offer over 560 programmes and more than 800 performers, including world stars such as Nobel Prize winner Abdulrazak Gurnah, Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, Robert Bryndza, Bernard Minier, Helen Fields, and historian Timothy Snyder. Czech authors presenting include Alena Mornštajnová, Halina Pawlowská, Ladislav Zibura, Tereza Kostková, and others. A new feature is the European Square space dedicated to discussions with authors, historians, and intellectuals, as well as the Sunday block World of Books Plus connecting literature with other art forms. The comics and visual section has been expanded into Hall Z and the new Illustration Island hall. The programme also includes the Humbook platform for young adult literature, live podcasts, Czech Television and Czech Radio programmes, and a rich programme for children and schools. The event is under the patronage of Czech President Petr Pavel. Tickets are available online at eshop.svetknihy.cz; reservations for hall programmes are free and included with the fair ticket.