The city of Calgary is set to host a literary festival that aims to spark creativity and imagination among its residents. The event, which will take place from January 14th to 17th, is expected to bring together renowned authors, poets, and storytellers from across the country.
Organized by the Wordfest Society of Calgary, the festival will feature a diverse lineup of over 70 events, including readings, workshops, and panel discussions. The theme for this year’s festival is “Ignite Your Imagination,” with a focus on exploring the power of storytelling and its impact on our lives.
One of the highlights of the festival will be a keynote address by award-winning author and poet, Margaret Atwood. Known for her thought-provoking works such as “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Alias Grace,” Atwood will share her insights on the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the world.
Other notable guests include bestselling author and journalist, Malcolm Gladwell, and Canadian poet and novelist, Lorna Crozier. The festival will also showcase emerging talents, with a special spotlight on Indigenous writers and storytellers.
In addition to the literary events, the festival will also feature a book fair, where attendees can browse and purchase books from local and national publishers. There will also be opportunities for book signings and meet-and-greets with the authors.
According to Shelley Youngblut, CEO and Creative Ringleader of Wordfest, the festival aims to bring people together and celebrate the power of words. “We want to ignite imaginations and inspire conversations through the magic of storytelling,” she said.
The festival will take place both in-person and virtually, with strict COVID-19 safety protocols in place for in-person events. Tickets are now available for purchase on the Wordfest website.
The literary festival is a testament to Calgary’s vibrant arts and culture scene, and it is expected to attract a diverse audience of book lovers, writers, and storytellers. With its exciting lineup of events, the festival promises to be a celebration of creativity and imagination for all.
