Ubud Writers & Readers Festival

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is an event held in the central Bali town of Ubud that celebrates all things related to literature, reading, writing, film, and culture.

The festival is the brainchild of Janet De Neefe, an Australian-born woman who envisioned a literary space where talented artists could express themselves.

Praised worldwide for its diverse and intimate program, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival gathers over 150 of the world’s most exciting writers, thinkers, and performers for five days of electrifying conversation, thoughtful debate, and joyful celebration of literary culture.

Alongside author conversations and panel discussions, there is a wide-ranging offering of Indonesian dance and performance, literary lunches, guided tours of Ubud’s famous markets, temples, and rice fields, late-night comedy, musical, and spoken word galas, as well as book launches, workshops, and events designed to enrich and inspire the imaginations of emerging writers and young people.

The main festival events occur at Jalan Raya Sanggingan, just 5 minutes from the Ubud town centre. Each year, the program is spread out over several venues, including Taman Baca, Indus Restaurant and Neka Museum, but some other events are scheduled in and around Ubud.

Most sessions will be held in English, Indonesian or bilingual. Translators will be present in most sessions.

There are so many speakers and events during the festival that it is impossible to mention them here. Please check the official website’s event schedule for a full list of events, speakers, venues, dates, and times.