Island Readers and Writers Festival
Ends on
A fresh face in literary festivals
Nipaluna / Hobart
29 May–1 June 2026
The inaugural Nipaluna / Hobart Readers and Writers Festival will be a vibrant four-day celebration of literature, story-telling and creating connection, taking place in the heart of Hobart from 29 May–1 June 2026.
Produced by Island, Tasmania’s leading literary organisation since 1979, in collaboration with key cultural and education partners, this new festival will feature a mix of in-conversations, panels, workshops, readings and performances.
From established authors to emerging voices, from graphic storytellers to poets, the festival will reflect the diversity and creativity of Australian literary culture.
Call for expressions of interest from artists
Be part of something new.
We are now inviting EOIs from writers, poets, spoken word performers, storytellers and literary artists interested in participating in the 2026 festival program.
Artists selected through this process will be considered for inclusion in:
- the public festival program
- a schools program, in partnership with Story Island Project
- a teachers and tertiary program, in partnership with the University of Tasmania.
We especially welcome EOIs from Tasmanian Aboriginal writers, culturally and linguistically diverse artists, and creators from regional and remote communities.
EOIs close at 5pm AEST Monday 1 September