The North London Book Fest will return to the Grade II-listed East Wing of the palace from Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26, 2026, offering a four-day literary celebration for all ages.
Headline guests include Booker Prize-winner Alan Hollinghurst, award-winning children’s writer Michael Rosen, comedian and writer Rachel Parris, and urban fantasy author Ben Aaronovitch.
Mark Civil, joint festival director, said: “The North London Book Fest offers something for readers of every generation.
“From the acclaimed ‘writer’s writer’ Tessa Hadley, to Booker Prize-winner Alan Hollinghurst and Natasha Brown, one of Granta’s Best of Young British Novelists (2023).
“Young visitors can craft poetic verses about creepy crawlies and dinosaurs with Simon Mole, dress up as great women from history with suffragette descendant Kate Pankhurst, and join Onjali Q. Raúf for an inspiring workshop on writing and activism.
“We’re thrilled to welcome back Michael Rosen for his 80th birthday tour, along with Laura Bates, whose appearances were firm favourites at our inaugural festival.”
Joint festival director Kate Ereira said: “The 2024 North London Book Fest confirmed our belief that North London is the natural home for a vibrant and diverse literary celebration, and it’s a joy to see the event grow.
“This year’s programme truly has something for everyone, from fans of Ben Aaronovitch’s Rivers of London to lovers of the Hampstead Ladies’ Pond, explored by Nell Frizzell.”
The programme will feature author conversations, readings, panel discussions, workshops and book signings.
Returning for its second year, the festival will also include performances by emerging musicians, spoken-word artists and stand-ups in the festival village.
Michael Rosen will appear as part of his 80th birthday tour.
The event is supported by Waterstones, which will operate an on-site bookshop.
Funding has been provided by the Tottenham Grammar School Foundation and Haringey Council.
A key highlight will be the finale of Alexandra Palace’s annual children’s book award, Biblio-Buzz, which will bring up to 800 young people to the Alexandra Palace Theatre on Friday, April 24, 2026.
