The 26th annual Vilnius Book Fair opened Thursday at the Lithuanian Exhibition and Congress Centre LITEXPO, with organizers anticipating record attendance and a diverse program of over 600 events. This year’s fair, running through March 1, is themed “The Word Seeks Its Human,” reflecting a focus on the responsibility and power of language in contemporary society.
According to the Lithuanian Publishers Association, the fair aims to foster dialogue between generations and cultures, emphasizing the importance of literature in cultivating critical thinking and societal resilience. Dovilė Zaidė, President of the Lithuanian Publishers Association, stated that the theme isn’t merely metaphorical, but a “necessity to talk about responsibility and the power of the word.”
The event features 49 international guests from 20 countries, alongside a significant emphasis on programming for children and young adults. Organizers noted the importance of fostering reading habits from a young age. The fair also incorporates discussions addressing current societal challenges and crises, positioning itself as a “cultural forum” where literature intersects with history, music, and politics.
LRT, Lithuania’s national broadcaster, is marking its centennial at the fair with an interactive exhibit. The installation, featuring a large-scale radio receiver, allows visitors to explore the broadcaster’s history through authentic recordings spanning a century of Lithuanian broadcasting. The exhibit aims to connect the public with the evolution of Lithuanian media and its role in shaping national identity. LRT is also hosting live radio broadcasts and a creative space for families.
This year’s fair is expected to surpass last year’s attendance of 55,000 visitors. Organizers have advised attendees to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, as the event has already generated significant public interest. The fair’s opening day saw a bustling atmosphere, with visitors actively purchasing books and engaging with exhibitors.
The date for the 2027 Vilnius Book Fair has already been set, deviating from the traditional late February/early March timeframe. Details regarding the new date were released this week, though specific dates were not disclosed.
