Scotland’s picturesque Galloway region is about to transform into an absolute literary wonderland as the world-famous Wigtown Book Festival officially makes its triumphant return. Bringing together more than 250 jaw-dropping events celebrating literature, live performance, culture, and the inimitable charm of Scotland’s National Book Town, this ten-day celebration is set to run from September 25 through October 4, 2026. Transforming Wigtown into a bustling cultural hub, the festival invites authors, journalists, scientists, performers, and major public figures to converge on the region, brilliantly spotlighting the rich literary heritage and vibrant creative community of Galloway.
This year’s star-studded, eclectic programme reads like a Hollywood and publishing wish-list combined, featuring beloved comedian Lucy Porter, acclaimed actors Bill Paterson, Larry Lamb, and Manjeet Mann, popular cookbook author Coinneach MacLeod, master crime writers Louise Welsh and Chris Brookmyre, visionary screenwriter Neil Forsyth, Travis bassist Dougie Payne, former Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable, and talented actor, singer, and writer Gerda Stevenson. Adding serious local star power to the lineup, global heartthrob and Outlander icon Sam Heughan—who spent his cherished childhood years in Balmaclellan and New Galloway and now proudly owns the Galloway Distillery—will also be taking part in the festivities. Meanwhile, local literary royalty Shaun Bythell, renowned author and bookseller, is gearing up to launch his eagerly anticipated latest book, Return of the Bookseller Diarist, while simultaneously celebrating a monumental milestone: 25 incredible years running The Bookshop, proudly recognized as Scotland’s largest second-hand bookstore.
Poetry Centenaries, Podcasting Pioneers, and Community Magic: Inside Scotland’s Ultimate Ten-Day Cultural Celebration
Beyond the heavy-hitting celebrity appearances, the festival’s expansive schedule is packed with immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences designed to captivate audiences of all ages. The 2026 edition will proudly mark the centenary of celebrated Wigtownshire poet Alastair Reid, widely recognized as one of twentieth-century Scotland’s most brilliant literary voices. Adding a modern digital twist to the historic town, attendees can catch live editions of the wildly popular MoonSnacks podcast, hosted by talented filmmaker and author Jessica Fox alongside former NASA executive Ed Hoffman. For families and night owls alike, master storyteller Renita Boyle will host enchanting events including “Book at Bedtime”—a cozy, themed reading session complete with warm hot chocolate—alongside specialized interactive workshops introducing younger children to Reid’s evocative poetry.
The cultural depth continues as poet Marjorie Lotfi explores powerful themes surrounding migration, women’s voices in Iran, and the vital role of poetry in challenging social injustice. Additionally, Kat Hill, author and creative director of Upland CIC, will host engaging discussions centered around her captivating book Bothy: In Search of Simple Shelter, which delves deep into wild landscapes and the profound therapeutic value of retreat. Behind this massive operational feat stands the beating heart of the community: over 100 dedicated volunteers from Wigtown—a close-knit town of fewer than 1,000 residents—who tirelessly manage venues, transport guest speakers, and keep the festival running seamlessly. As festival programmer Lee Randall enthusiastically notes, Galloway’s rich contemporary writing scene and extraordinary environment make it an unmatched destination for discovery. As veteran bookseller Shaun Bythell aptly puts it, the festival is so much more than just books—it is a community-wide celebration where local magic meets the world. Stay tuned for live updates as the ten-day cultural extravaganza officially kicks off!
Source: Compiled from various sources
