What's On
MK Lit Fest 2026 Comes to Milton Keynes
Date
22 April 2026
About this event
22 – 26 April | Across Milton Keynes
Midsummer Place is proud to support the return of Milton Keynes Lit Fest 2026, a vibrant celebration of books, words, writers and ideas, taking place from Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 April. With 18 exciting events across the city, including several hosted right here at Waterstones, this year’s festival brings together a diverse mix of bestselling authors, poets, historians, and creative voices.
Event schedule
- Next event
- Wednesday 22 April 2026, 0:00- Sunday 26 April 2026, 0:00
Event location details
What to Expect
Whether you’re a lifelong book lover or simply curious, MK Lit Fest offers something for everyone:
- Author talks & interviews
- Writing workshops for all levels
- Fun children’s events
- Live readings & performances
- Discussions on culture, politics, and climate
From exploring the history of the world through borders, to uncovering the criminal mind, to powerful storytelling around climate change and identity, the festival is packed with thought-provoking and inspiring sessions.
Headline Names
This year’s line-up includes an incredible range of speakers, including:
- Harriet Tyce
- Johnny Ball
- Natalie Bennett
- Prof David Wilson
- Ruth Mancini
- Derek Owusu
- Sarah Pinborough
- Isabelle Baafi
Events at Midsummer Place
We’re delighted that a number of events will be hosted at Waterstones Milton Keynes, right here in the centre.
Highlights include:
- Crime Night: Harriet Tyce & Sarah Pinborough
- The Climate Stories We Need to Tell with Natalie Bennett
- Borders: A History of the World in 47 Borders
- Johnny Ball: Stories That Must Be Told!
Workshops & Family Events
The festival also features a fantastic range of interactive workshops and children’s activities, including:
- Creative writing workshops with industry experts
- “Draw Along with Croaky!” for younger visitors
- Storytelling adventures and author-led sessions
Book Your Tickets
If books are food for thought, MK Lit Fest is serving up a feast.
👉 Browse the full programme and book tickets here: www.mklitfest.org
You can also follow @MKLitFest on social media for updates.
Make a day of it, visit us for shopping, dining, and a chance to enjoy world-class literary events right in the heart of Milton Keynes.
