Malta’s biggest celebration of book culture returns this November. The **47th Malta Book Festival** runs from **4 to 8 November 2026** at the **Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre (MFCC)** in Ta’ Qali, and this year’s theme is **“Uncover the Story.”**
Organised by the **National Book Council**, the festival is the foremost book event on the Maltese cultural calendar. Last year’s edition drew over **40,000 visitors** across five days — a record — with more than **50 exhibitors** and a programme of over **100 events** for readers of every age. Entry is **free**.
Event Details
- Event: 47th Malta Book Festival
- Theme: Uncover the Story
- Dates: 4 to 8 November 2026
- Venue: Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre (MFCC), Ta’ Qali
- Organised by: National Book Council
- Admission: Free
- Website: ktieb.org.mt
Opening Hours
- Wednesday 4 November: 09:00 – 21:00
- Thursday 5 November: 09:00 – 13:00, then 17:00 – 21:00
- Friday 6 November: 09:00 – 13:00, then 17:00 – 21:00
- Saturday 7 November: 09:00 – 21:00
- Sunday 8 November: 09:00 – 20:00
Note: Thursday and Friday have a midday break between sessions.
What to Expect
The Malta Book Festival is far more than a book sale. Across five days, the MFCC transforms into a vibrant cultural space with over 100 events running alongside the exhibition halls:
- Author talks and panel discussions: Meet local and international authors, hear about their work, and ask questions. The 2026 edition features acclaimed Spanish author Esther García Llovet as a special international guest.
- Theatre shows: Maltese children’s literature brought to life on stage in a dedicated theatre space, curated by More or Less Theatre. Free admission, but booking is required as seats are limited.
- 50+ exhibitors: Browse and buy from Malta’s publishers, independent booksellers, cultural organisations, and international exhibitors.
- Children’s programme: Storytelling sessions, workshops, and interactive events designed for younger readers.
- Professional networking: Opportunities for industry professionals, authors, and publishers.
€20 Book Vouchers for Students
One of the festival’s standout initiatives: **all primary and secondary school students in Malta are eligible for a free €20 book voucher**, redeemable at any bookseller at the festival during all opening hours. Parents can register their children for the voucher through the National Book Council website at ktieb.org.mt.
A 45-Year Tradition
The Malta Book Festival has been running since the late 1970s, making it one of the longest-established cultural events on the island. Over the decades, it has hosted some of the most prominent names in international literature, including **Sir Salman Rushdie**, **Naomi Klein**, **Tim Parks**, **Irvine Welsh**, and **Marie Darrieussecq**, alongside Malta’s own authors and publishers.
The festival’s international dimension continues to grow, with guest authors and publishers from across Europe and beyond joining the programme each year. The National Book Council describes it as the foremost book celebration in Malta’s cultural calendar — a claim that the 40,000-visitor turnout in 2025 comfortably supports.
How to Get There from Valletta
The MFCC at Ta’ Qali is located in the centre of the island, roughly a 20-minute drive from Valletta.
- By Bus: Direct routes from the Valletta Bus Terminus service the Ta’ Qali area.
- By Taxi: Approximately 20 minutes from Valletta. Our concierge team at The Embassy Valletta Hotel can arrange transport.
- By Car: Parking is available at MFCC.
Where to Stay
The Malta Book Festival coincides with one of the richest cultural weeks of the Maltese autumn. Visitors attending the festival can also catch the **Science in the City Performance Festival** (6–7 November, Sala San Duminku, Valletta) and, depending on timing, the closing events of **The Three Palaces Festival** (28 October – 1 November).
Staying in **Valletta** gives you the best transport connections to Ta’ Qali and walking access to Valletta’s own November events. At The Embassy Valletta Hotel on Strait Street, you are a 5-minute walk from the Valletta Bus Terminus and within easy reach of the MFCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Malta Book Festival 2026?
4 to 8 November 2026, at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.
How much does it cost to attend?
Entry is completely free.
How do students get the €20 book voucher?
All primary and secondary school students are eligible. Parents can register their children through the National Book Council website at ktieb.org.mt.
Who is the international guest author for 2026?
Acclaimed Spanish author Esther García Llovet has been announced as a special guest. Additional guests may be confirmed closer to the festival.
Is the Book Festival suitable for children?
Absolutely. The programme includes storytelling sessions, workshops, theatre shows, and a dedicated children’s area. The €20 book voucher initiative is specifically designed to encourage young readers.
What are the opening hours?
Hours vary by day. Wednesday and Saturday run 09:00–21:00. Thursday and Friday have a midday break (09:00–13:00, then 17:00–21:00). Sunday closes at 20:00.
How do I get to MFCC from The Embassy Valletta Hotel?
A 20-minute taxi (our concierge can arrange) or a bus from the Valletta Bus Terminus, which is a 5-minute walk from the hotel.