Burlington Literary Festival

Burlington Literary Festival

BurlLITFest is a celebration of all things literary. Our love of the written word continues this fall with the 5th annual Burlington Literary Festival in November.

During this month-long celebration of literature, we welcome authors, celebrate books, and visit with local and national literary treasures. Get inspired by published writers and tap into your own storytelling talents. The talks and workshops are free and open to all. 

Seats are filling fast! Register now to avoid disappointment. Click on each feature box to read the full event description and register online. View a list of the complete lineup

Help us celebrate 5 years of BurlLITFest!

Bring your festival passport to every event you attend to get a stamp. For every 5 stamps, you’ll earn one entry in our prize draw! Hand in your completed passport at any event or library branch by December 1 to submit your entry. Winners will be contacted by December 5.

Author Talks

Meet literary thought leaders and get inspired by their creativity, activism, and perspective. You’ll leave feeling invigorated and ready for action.

illustrated orange owl leaning toward a microphone
BurlLITFest Open Mic | Nov 30

Share your literary talent at our Festival wrap-up event. Sign up or come to listen!

headshot Iona Whishaw
In Conversation with Iona Whishaw

Iona Whishaw discusses her exciting new prequel with author Melodie Campbell.

headshot Alyson Richman
In Conversation with Alyson Richman

Alyson Richman talks about her haunting new novel—a story of love, ghosts, books.

headshot Joy Fielding
Master of Suspense Joy Fielding

Joy Fielding talks about her new psychological thriller and the writing life.

headshot Jessica Slice
Parenthood & Disability

Jessica Slice shares her journey through motherhood, disability, and advocacy. VIRTUAL

headshot Robert J. Sawyer
Robert J. Sawyer on Science Fiction

Robert J. Sawyer introduces the science fiction genre—you may be surprised!

headshot Rick Westhead
Rick Westhead on Hockey Culture

Top investigative reporter Rick Westhead on his hard-hitting look at hockey culture.

headshot Edo van Belkom
From Horror Story to Horror Film

A behind-the-scenes look at the making of Edo van Belkom book-to-screen horror film.

headshot Catherine Little
Celebrating Jane Austen's 250th

Catherine Little talks about her book and shares stories about Jane Austen's life.

headshot Patty Krawec
In Conversation with Patty Krawec

Patty Krawec explores Indigenous voices that refuse to accept the settler narrative.

headshots Lana Button, Jennifer Maruno, and Sylvia McNicoll
A Novel Approach to Children's Stories

Lana Button, Jennifer Maruno, and Sylvia McNicoll talk about writing books kids love.

headshot Adnan Khan
An Afternoon with Adnan Khan

Adnan Khan's new novel is an incisive look at faith, family, identity, and ambition.

headshot Miriam Toews
An Evening with Miriam Toews

POSTPONED - One of Canada's most iconic writers tells her own story in a breathtaking memoir.

headshot Souvankham Thammavongsam
Meet Souvankham Thammavongsam

Souvankham Thammavongsam discusses her revelatory Giller Prize winning debut novel.

Writing Workshops

Find your writing voice in free workshops led by industry professionals. Here’s a perfect chance to give creative writing a try or amp up your existing skills.

Events for Kids

Hands-on sessions with popular children's authors for aspiring young writers and creators.

Library Speakers Consortium Partner Events

Tune in to top authors from around the world at live virtual events presented by BPL's digital resource, Library Speakers Consortium.