2026 International Children’s Book Festival

Every Story Starts a Journey – Discovering the World Through Stories

Stories bring people together. They open up new perspectives, spark curiosity, and invite us to see the world through different eyes.

From October 9 to 11, the International Children’s Book Festival at the DAI Heidelberg will build bridges between people, languages, and cultures. Renowned authors, illustrators, and artists invite you to discover stories, ask questions, and get creative yourself—through readings, workshops, storytelling sessions, and discussions.

Look forward to, among other things , readings with Margit Auer, Isabel Abedi, Efua Traoré, and Isabel Pin; workshop discussions and live drawing sessions; bilingual storytelling; musical readings; shared reading; translation workshops; philosophical workshops; and a bilingual book fair.

Whether it’s fantasy, friendship, nature, science, or social issues—the festival demonstrates how children’s literature can convey complex topics in a sensitive, intelligent, and inspiring way. Multilingual events and encounters with international guests make the festival a vibrant place for discovery, participation, and further reflection —for children, teens, and adults alike.

Discover the full festival program and your personal highlights now!