Held every year for over two decades, International Book Festival Budapest has earned a reputation as one of the most important professional and industrial forums of the region. It attracts over 60,000 attendees every year, both industry professionals and book lovers. They come to Budapest to get both newly published and older books at discount prices as well as to attend a wide range of events including panel discussions, reading sessions, book signings, meetings with Hungarian and foreign authors, etc.
The festival showcases about 50,00 titles and features around 100 foreign authors from 25 countries as well as over 400 Hungarian authors, scholars, artists and intellectuals. Past guests have included Ephraim Kishon, Salman Rushdie, Günter Grass, Paulo Coelho, Umberto Eco, Amos Oz, and other world famous authors.
Along with established writers, the festival features talented young authors from member countries of the European Union. They participate in the European First Novel Festival, a sister event that runs concurrently with the main festival. It is a joint effort of 28 European countries.
At International Book Festival Budapest, book lovers will find an impressive array of books to suit any taste including new editions, rare editions, collectible editions, fiction, non-fiction, comic books, children’s books, and more. Each festival features a Guest of Honor country whose literature and publishing industry are highlighted at the exhibition.
For publishing industry professionals, International Book Festival Budapest is a great platform for networking, learning the latest industry trends, trading publishing and translation rights, and exchanging ideas and experiences with foreign colleagues.
The program of the festival includes a wide range of events and activities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. More than 300 events (including about 100 book presentations) are held over four days. They include on-stage conversations with authors, awards ceremonies, exhibitions, meetings, mini conferences, children’s events, round table discussions, lectures, trade meetings, contests and quizzes, and more.
Photo: International Book Festival Budapest
