Take part in one of the most awaited literary festivals in Southeast Asia. The Galle Literary Festival is a grand event that attracts many famous local and international authors and literature lovers, such as Richard Dawkins, D.J. Taylor, Sebastian Faulks, and Joanna Trollope.
The festival was founded in 2007 by Geoffrey Dobbs, and has been held annually in January around the Galle Dutch Fort. During the day, visitors can participate in a variety of entertaining events such as panel discussions, topical debates, literary lunches, film evenings, seminars, and a comprehensive children's program. As a part of the evening schedule, the program features poetry slams, jazz performances, art showings, wine tastings, and photographic exhibitions.
The Galle Literary Festival has grown significantly over the years, with over 40 foreign and 50 Sri Lankan authors participating. It was named the "No. 1 Literary Festival in the World" by Harper's Bazaar UK in 2011.
By providing a platform for all book worms, the festival encourages passionate readers and writers to connect with one another.