The Festival of Literary Diversity returns from April 26th to May 3rd, bringing together readers and some of Canada’s most exciting authors and storytellers for a week of conversations, community, and literary discovery. The festival will run virtually from April 26th to 29th, then transition to in-person events from April 30th to May 3rd in Downtown Brampton.

This year’s festival features more than 30 Canadian authors, with programming designed to inspire readers, writers, and publishing professionals alike. From book signings and meet-and-greets to author readings, panel discussions, and interactive events, attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of experiences with award-winning authors and emerging voices from across Canada.

One of the most exciting additions this year is DISH IT! WITH THE AUTHORS, a brand-new festival experience where readers and authors sit side by side to share food, conversation, and trivia in a welcoming team-based setting. Designed to spark genuine connection and community, this event offers a more intimate and interactive way to experience the festival.

Writers and aspiring authors can also tap into The Writers’ Hub, a signature virtual networking event that connects guests directly with publishers, editors, and writing organizations. Through virtual conversations and industry-focused sessions, attendees can gain practical insight into navigating the publishing world while building valuable connections.

Festival-goers can also look forward to a standout lineup of talented authors, including Elamin Abdelmahmoud, Sharon Bala, Billy-Ray Belcourt, Chantal Braganza, Farzana Doctor, Antonio Michael Downing, Joss Richard, David A. Robertson, and Liann Zhang, alongside many more celebrated voices. Tickets and the full author lineup can be viewed here

If you are a book lover, writer, or lover of storytelling, this is one festival you do not want to miss!

As always, you can keep up with the latest fun things to do across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area on efosa.

About the FOLD

As Canada’s first festival dedicated to diverse authors and storytellers, FOLD continues to create space for underrepresented voices while connecting readers directly with the writers shaping the country’s literary landscape.

In May 2016, the Festival of Literary Diversity became the first festival in Canada to celebrate underrepresented authors and storytellers. Eleven years later, the festival has become a week-long, multi-model event with a range of panels, readings, workshops, and special events.

Held every spring, the festival spotlights a wide range of authors and stories that foster dialogue, challenge assumptions, and inspire change. Hosted in Brampton, Ontario, with virtual events that reach audiences nationwide, the Festival of Literary Diversity provides a vital space that centers belonging and builds meaningful connections through the power of the written and spoken word.

The Festival of Literary Diversity

When: April 26th to May 3rd

• Virtual: April 26th to 29th
• In-person in Downtown Brampton: April 30th to May 3rd 

Where: Downtown Brampton

Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $10. Grab your tickets here