The Franschhoek Literary Festival (FLF) will return from 15–17 May 2026, transforming the Franschhoek valley into a vibrant hub of storytelling, ideas and cultural exchange.
The 2026 programme will feature a diverse line-up of international, African and South African authors, alongside a newly introduced Family Day, designed to inspire readers of all ages and encourage a lifelong love of books.
According to Festival Programme Director Jennifer Blane, the event continues to create space where global thinking meets African storytelling, offering audiences the opportunity to engage with powerful ideas, meaningful dialogue and creative expression.
International and local literary voices
The festival will welcome acclaimed international authors including historian Peter Frankopan, illustrator and bestselling author Charlie Mackesy, novelist Tan Twan Eng, The Henna Artist author Alka Joshi and award-winning writer Rémy Ngamije.
South African literary voices featured in the 2026 programme include celebrated crime writer Deon Meyer, Michelin-starred chef and author Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, brand strategist Thebe Ikalafeng, beloved Karoo storyteller Sally Andrew and political analyst Justice Malala.
Together, these authors will explore topics ranging from history, politics and culture to creativity, identity and storytelling.
Family Day encourages young readers
A major highlight of the 2026 programme is the introduction of Family Day on Saturday, 16 May, offering interactive sessions designed for children, parents and multi-generational audiences.
Sessions will include conversations about modern parenting, live storytelling experiences, drawing demonstrations and inspirational adventure stories aimed at nurturing imagination, creativity and confidence in young readers.
Storytelling legend Gcina Mhlophe will bring African tales to life through poetry and song, while author Refiloe Moahloli will share uplifting stories that encourage children to believe in their voices and dreams.
Supporting literacy and creative thinking
Through initiatives such as the FLF School Reading Programme, the festival continues to support literacy development and access to books for learners in the Franschhoek valley.
Over three days, the festival creates a meeting place for readers, writers and thinkers from across the world, encouraging dialogue across generations and disciplines.
Full programme details and ticket information are available at www.flf.co.za.
