25th international literature festival berlin

For 25 years, the ilb has brought together remarkable voices from contemporary international literature and has become a vibrant meeting place: where favorite authors and readers, bestselling writers and promising newcomers – and above all, literature lovers – come together. From artistic, academic, or journalistic perspectives, the festival reexamines and discusses pressing political issues, social conditions, and global developments.

This year, the ilb celebrates its 25th anniversary with a special programme titled “Ein Vierteljahrhundert Weltliteratur” (“A Quarter Century of World Literature”) – featuring everything from behind-the-scenes talks with Nobel Prize winners to events from the Young Programme and a grand anniversary show. The multifaceted programme includes book premieres, panel discussions, a poetry night, a graphic novel day, and lively festival parties.

This year’s Curator in Residence is the Mexican-American author and Pulitzer Prize winner Cristina Rivera Garza, who will host her own series of events. Alongside her and other prominent guests, 130 authors from around 40 countries will offer exciting insights and fresh perspectives. This year’s festival theme, “GLOW”, invites audiences to explore the dual nature of light – its power to illuminate and inspire, as well as its shadows and mysteries.

The ilb is more than just a literary festival – it’s a space for exchange, inspiration, and shared experience.

Learn more about the festival and its full programme at literaturfestival.com.