Open Book Festival 2026: Where Stories Spark Conversations

Broadcast Date: 3 September 2026

This morning on Morning Cruise, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mervyn Sloman, Festival Director of the Open Book Festival 2026, one of Cape Town's most celebrated literary and cultural events.

Taking place from 4–6 September 2026, the festival returns with an exciting programme featuring more than 120 writers, poets, artists, and creatives across 60+ events that explore literature, identity, politics, activism, history, and the conversations shaping our society.

During our conversation, Mervyn explained that the Open Book Festival is far more than a celebration of reading. It is a space where people can gather, feel welcomed, and engage in meaningful discussions about the world around them.

The festival creates opportunities for honest conversations around important topics including:

• African identity

• Gender-based violence

• Queer experiences

• Social justice

  
  
  

• Community and belonging

• Hope and the future

At its heart, Open Book encourages people to think deeply, listen carefully, and connect with one another through storytelling.

One of the highlights of this year's festival is its vibrant poetry programme.

Each evening concludes with powerful live poetry performances featuring some of South Africa's most exciting spoken-word artists. These performances celebrate creativity while giving young voices a platform to share stories of identity, resilience, love, and hope.

According to Mervyn, poetry allows people to express experiences that often cannot be captured through ordinary conversation.

This year's festival also welcomes international writers back to Cape Town, creating meaningful dialogue between South African authors and voices from across the world.

These conversations help audiences explore shared experiences across cultures while celebrating the unique stories that shape different communities.

One of the biggest misconceptions about literary festivals is that they are only for avid readers.

Mervyn reminded listeners that Open Book is designed for everyone.

Alongside author discussions, visitors can enjoy:

• Creative workshops

• A vibrant festival marketplace

• Book signings

• Live art

• Comics workshops

• Community installations

• Craft activities

• Performances

• Interactive exhibitions

Whether you're passionate about books or simply curious about ideas and creativity, there's something for everyone.

When asked how the festival measures its impact, Mervyn shared a touching story of a young audience member who found the courage to publicly speak about her mental health after attending a festival discussion.

Moments like these, he said, remind the organisers that literature has the power to create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood.

The Open Book Festival 2026 runs from 4–6 September at the District Six Homecoming Centre, with additional events taking place at The Book Lounge in Cape Town.

For the full programme and tickets, visit the Open Book Festival website or purchase tickets through Webtickets.

Morning Cruise thanks Mervyn Sloman for joining us and giving listeners a deeper understanding of how literature can bring communities together, inspire dialogue, and create lasting change.

Written by Esethu Thetha