Willy Lit Fest 2026 program announced

Willy Lit Fest will run in the Williamstown Town Hall, Melbourne, from 12 to 14 June under the theme of “reflections”.

The event will feature 40 sessions and almost 80 artists, including Stephanie Alexander, Shaun Micallef, Evelyn Araluen, Tony Birch, Maxine Beneba Clarke, Louise Milligan, Josh Bornstein, Micaela Sahhar, Clara Brack, Chloe Wilson, Anna Krien, Helen Jarvis and Sam Elkin.

In its 23rd year, the festival is co-directed by Rita Horányi and Alice Reid. “This year’s festival theme explores how literature reflects the world back to us, but also the perplexing proliferation of ideas and images in our digital world,” said Horányi. “How can we find our way through the hall of mirrors towards the truth? Can books and writing still help us do that?”

In addition to panels, workshops, and a “jam-packed children’s program” featuring Andy Griffiths and Leigh Hobbs, a number of special outdoor events will “allow audiences to immerse themselves in what makes Williamstown unique”. Across the Sea is a walking audio experience and love letter to two communities of ocean swimmers – in Williamstown and St Leonards-On-Sea in the UK – created by Camilla Hannan; the Swimming Salon returns with readings on the ocean, swimming and bodies of water at the Williamstown Swimming and Life Saving Club, “followed by a wintry dip in the bay for those who dare”; and urban ecologist Darryl Jones will lead nature enthusiasts on an early-morning stroll through the Williamstown Botanic Gardens.

More information and the full program are available on the Willy Lit Fest website.

Category: Festivals Local news