Black British Book Festival 2026

EUROPE's Largest Celebration of Black Literature

Back for its fifth year, the Black British Book Festival is a landmark celebration of Black books, ideas and culture
Across the rest of the day, expect a line-up that spans literature, music, science, money, love, identity and the internet.

There's something for everyone with storytelling, craft, superheroes and more for the youngest readers. Aspiring authors get a programme packed with practical, no-fluff sessions and the brand-new Black British Book Festival × Pan Macmillan collaboration - a real shot at getting published.

MEET DETAILS:
At Culturally Curious, the experience starts before the event. I want to break bread with you. We’ll meet about 75 minutes before the show, local to the event, giving us enough time to say hello and chat before heading off to an incredible experience together.

At each gathering, I’ll provide a little mezze (or similar) for the table to share, ready when you arrive, with options to suit most dietary requirements. There’s no need to order any food yourself, and joining us beforehand is entirely optional. You’re just as welcome to meet us at the event.

PRE-EVENT MEETUP: 11:30 AM
LOCATION: TBC nearer the time (depending on numbers).

DIRECT MEETUP AT: 12:45 PM - BARBICAN CENTRE
Silk St, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DS, UK · London

EVENT STARTS: 13:00

TICKETS:
You will need to purchase your own ticket for this event.
Please book The Black British Book Festival 2026 - Tickets
Tickets are A £24 Festival Pass (£20 Festival Pass + £4 transaction fee) includes entry to one headline event, plus access to all non-headline talks, panels, workshops and family activities throughout the day, subject to capacity.

GETTING THERE:
Tube
Barbican: 4 min walk; Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle lines
Moorgate: 7 min walk; Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle, Northern lines, Elizabeth Line (use the Moorgate exit for Liverpool St stop)
Farringdon: 8 min walk; Elizabeth line
St Paul's: 11 min walk; Central line

Train
Liverpool Street: 11 min walk
Farringdon: 8 min walk

Bus
The bus route that stops closest to the main Centre is the 153, alight at the Silk Street stop. The 4 and 56 also stop at Barbican tube station.

EVENT WHATSAPP GROUP:
Please join the event WhatsApp group to help you find the group on the day. The link will be posted in the Event Comments 48 hours before the event, for those on the confirmed going list.
NB: Joining this WhatsApp group will make your phone number visible to other members in the group.

POST-EVENT:
There’s an option to go for a drink/bite after for an hour or so, if desired, to share our thoughts on the event.