Calling all bookworms: The Saskatchewan Festival of Words awaits!

This July 13-16, visitors to Moose Jaw who love to read should mark their calendars and make attending the Saskatchewan Festival of Words a priority — the annual literary event brings together book lovers, writers, and industry professionals from across Canada and beyond for a celebration of storytelling, ideas, craft, and conversation. This year is the 27th edition of the Saskatchewan Festival of Words, which draws thousands of visitors each year and is one of the Notorious City’s biggest events.

One of the festival’s main draws is its impressive and varied lineup of authors and literary figures. Previous guests have included Margaret Atwood, Thomas King, Lorna Crozier, and Yann Martel. This year’s roster promises to be just as exciting, with a mix of established and emerging voices from a range of genres and backgrounds. The festival takes place over several days and features a wide range of events, including readings, panel discussions, workshops, book signings, a concert, and a spoken word showcase. Whether you’re a fan of poetry, non-fiction, fiction, the spoken word, travel writing, or humour, there’s something for everyone.

Some of the highlights of the 2023 schedule include a book club discussion with Suzette Mayr, whose book The Sleeping Car Porter (2022) won the 2022 Giller Prize; a workshop on Breathing Life into Characters with Michelle Good, whose 2020 debut novel Five Little Indians has become a Canadian literary sensation; and an interview with Guy Gavriel Kay, author of numerous internationally bestselling fantasy fiction novels, including Aurora Award-winner Tigana (1990) and World Fantasy Award-winner Ysabel (2007).

The full list of presenters at the 2023 Saskatchewan Festival of Words is available on the Festival or Words website at https://www.festivalofwords. com/presenters. The festival’s organizers are committed to helping represent diverse and forgotten voices from marginalized communities and look for opportunities to bring perspectives on social justice, environmentalism, and human rights to the fore.

Another reason to attend the Saskatchewan Festival of Words is the chance to connect with likeminded individuals and expand your literary horizons. The festival offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to meet other readers and writers, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

In addition to its impressive programming, the Saskatchewan Festival of Words also offers a unique opportunity to explore the city of Moose Jaw itself. The festival takes place at various locations around town, from historic buildings to modern venues, providing a chance to discover Moose Jaw’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. Visitors can browse shops and entertainment on Main Street, sample the local foods, and explore the many attractions in the area. The festival’s bustling atmosphere, combined with Moose Jaw’s small-town charm, makes for an unforgettable experience that has added to the city’s reputation for friendliness and hospitality.

New this year is a Street Fair on Thursday, July 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. The fair will take place in front of the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre and include mini readings from Jeanette Lynes, Ted Barris, Ken Carriere, Ali Hassan, and S.C. Lalli. There will be food trucks on hand and booths from small and local businesses.

Festival passes go on sale on May 10 and include single-day, student, and other flexible options. The Full Pass is $175 plus applicable fees.