The Franschhoek Literary Festival is delighted to announce the dates for its eagerly awaited 2025 event. Literature enthusiasts, mark your calendars for the literary event of the year, taking place from 16 – 18 May 2025. Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of words, ideas, and open dialogue set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Franschhoek valley.
Following the success of previous festivals, the 2025 edition promises new and expanded offerings that will appeal to both first-time visitors and long-time festival-goers. In addition to the much-loved panel discussions and author interviews, this year will feature a series of new writing workshops and masterclasses designed to spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and support budding authors entering the South African literary scene. Whether you’re a passionate reader or a curious thinker, there will be something for everyone to enjoy, from thought-provoking debates to poetry performances to hands-on learning experiences.
“We’re thrilled to share the dates for the 2025 Franschhoek Literary Festival, an event that celebrates the power of literature, ideas, and stories,” said Jennifer Blane, Festival Programme Director. “This year, we’re introducing even more interactive opportunities for attendees, with new writing workshops and masterclasses that will engage and inspire all who attend. And we are extremely excited to welcome a stellar lineup of writers including international bestsellers Kate Mosse (The Joubert Family Chronicles) Deon Meyer (Leo), Abi Daré (The Girl with the Louding Voice), Sunday Times Fiction Prize winner Siphiwe Gloria Ndlovu (The Creation of Half-Broken People) and multi-award-winning poet Antjie Krog (Blood’s Inner Rhyme) – plus many more esteemed authors, and exciting new voices.”
Beyond the literary magic, Franschhoek remains the ultimate destination for this celebrated event, offering the perfect blend of culture, beauty, and history. Nestled among breathtaking vineyards, the town provides a serene and inspiring environment for guests to immerse themselves in the world of literature. The festival has become a key cultural fixture in the region thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, enchanting venues, and the warmth of the community that supports it year after year.
The Franschhoek Literary Festival is proud to encourage a love of literature beyond the annual festival, through the work of the Franschhoek Reading Programme, an outreach initiative working with local schools to grow and nurture future readers. The festival continues to draw people to this exceptional town, with its commitment to fostering a love for reading, supporting local talent, and promoting important literary conversations that resonate across the world.
With an impressive lineup of local, pan-African, and international authors the festival organisers anticipate tickets selling very quickly so an FLF membership is encouraged. “As an independent festival, the festival relies on the support of our community. By becoming a member, you contribute to the sustainability of the festival and help fund important outreach work in the Franschhoek Valley,” adds Blane.
Membership benefits include:
- A 15% discount on all sessions for the member
- Programme reveal – one week prior to the public
- Priority booking – access ticket sales one week prior to the public
- Entry into a lucky draw
For only R500, the membership supports the festival’s initiatives to nurture a love for reading among learners in the Valley and helps maintain our mission of making literature accessible to all.
For festival updates and author announcements, visit the official website and follow the festival’s Instagram account. The 2025 programme will be released on Friday 28 March 2025