The Vancouver Writers Fest will feature more than 150 local and international authors in over 90 events from October 18 to 25, 2025. The festival, hosted primarily at Granville Island and select locations throughout the Lower Mainland, has been expanded by one day to include additional author conversations, highlighting pressing themes in literature and current affairs.
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This year's opening event, hosted by Elamin Abdelmahmoud at the Vancouver Playhouse, will feature esteemed writers such as Ayad Akhtar, Cory Doctorow, Tayari Jones, Ruth Ozeki, Ece Temelkuran, John Vaillant, Jesse Wente, and Jody Wilson-Raybould. These authors will engage in sequential talks focused on central themes of the festival.
Events will also be inspired by John Vaillant, this year’s award-winning Guest Curator, examining the complex relationship between humans and nature. These include "Canary in a Coal Mine," which discusses endangered bird species, and "More than Human: Wildlife in an Age of Extinction," where authors will explore interactions between humans and animals. Additionally, "Repair and Revive" will address the climate crisis and its repercussions.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from the 2025 Booker Prize winner during the session with David Szalay, alongside other nominees like Douglas Stuart and Marlon James. A special free event in partnership with BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner will feature Ece Temelkuran in conversation with Commissioner Kasari Govender.
Tickets for all events are now available through the Vancouver Writers Fest website. A print program guide can be found at various locations including Granville Island, bookstores, libraries, and JJ Bean locations throughout Metro Vancouver.