Sir Vince Cable, John Hegley and Kim Moore lead massive line-up for Leeds Lit Fest 2026
The countdown is officially on for Leeds Lit Fest 2026, which returns next week with an ambitious nine-day programme featuring more than 50 events across the city.
Storytelling, poetry and big ideas: the countdown has officially begun for Leeds to transform into a vibrant city of stories once again, as organisers unveil the stellar line-up for Leeds Lit Fest 2026.
Returning for its massive nine-day run, the award-winning festival is set to bring together celebrated writers, poets, and performers.
Spanning more than 50 events, the ambitious 2026 programme will take over theatres, libraries, and independent arts spaces across the city to explore everything from politics and contemporary culture to folk horror and poetry.
Leading the headline announcements is former politician and economist Sir Vince Cable, who will offer a timely reflection on modern politics, leadership, and a rapidly changing global landscape.
The festival will also welcome back performance poet and comedian John Hegley, delivering his trademark blend of surreal humour and inventive wordplay, alongside award-winning poet Kim Moore, who will perform her powerful and emotionally resonant work exploring womanhood and resilience.
Spoken word and poetry lovers can look forward to a packed schedule, including a showcase from the Northern Poets Collective (featuring Nabeela Ahmed, Rachel Bower, Antony Dunn, Testament, and Emily Zobel Marshall).
Door-to-Door Poet Rowan McCabe will bring his warm, witty comedy show Hard Knocks to the city, while Naomi Wood is set to debut Monster, a striking exploration of the female "monster" through literature and myth.
The extensive line-up also features interactive workshops hosted by world-builder David Hartley, Here Be Monsters author F R Kesby, and rising rap and poetry star Lence, alongside an array of community storytelling events and publishing industry discussions.
“Leeds Lit Fest has always been about creating space for people to connect, share stories and celebrate literature,” said Fiona Gell, Director of Leeds Literature Festival CIC.
“This year’s programme is packed with energy, variety and incredible talent. There’s a real sense of community at the heart of the festival, and we can’t wait to welcome people back for another unforgettable year.”
Run by a partnership of local creative hubs - including Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds Libraries, Carriageworks Theatre, and The Leeds Library - the volunteer-driven festival previously took home 'Best Literary Festival' at the national Saboteur Awards.
When does Leeds Lit Fest 2026 take place?
The festival runs for nine days, starting on June 6 and concluding on June 14.
Where can I buy tickets for Leeds Lit Fest 2026?
Full programme details, venue locations, and individual event tickets can be accessed via the official festival website.
Organisers have warned that tickets are already selling quickly for several headline events, with audiences heavily encouraged to book early.