The buzz of GLF once again come January!
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Damita Nikapota
Come January, the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort will be the vibrant stage for writers, thinkers, artists, and audiences as the Galle Literary Festival marks its 13th edition in 2026, celebrating stories, art and conversation in the heart of Galle Fort.
Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and powerful programming, GLF 2026 from January 22-25, will offer four immersive days of literature, performance, creative dialogue and cultural exploration. The Festival remains committed to spotlighting the Sri Lankan, diaspora and global voices, with a strong focus on diversity, inclusion, and genre-defying experiences.
The 2025 edition featured more than 100 events spanning literature, politics, science, identity, cuisine, and culture. The 2026 edition of the Festival will build on this momentum, with plans underway for an expanded programme featuring film screenings, live performances, an enriched Children’s Festival, and the Art Trail – a contemporary art festival showcasing leading South Asian artists across the Fort.
Damita Nikapota, Director of Galle Festival (Guarantee) Limited, said, “GLF has always been a uniquely intimate and enriching experience – a place where ideas, stories, and cultures converge in meaningful ways. As a not-for-profit initiative, we’re proud to have kept the Festival accessible to audiences over the years, and that remains a core commitment as we look ahead. That’s why partnerships play such an important role in how we continue to grow. For 2026, we’re collaborating with a diverse range of partners to bring fresh energy, creative opportunities, and sustainable support to the Festival, while staying true to everything people love about GLF.”
“GLF never fails to give me a lift in this troubling world,” said Booker shortlisted author Romesh Gunesekera. “The magnetism of Galle, the chance for unexpected conversations, new ideas, and surprise encounters, makes it a moment to be treasured. All thanks to a team that does the magic of bringing us together.”
To support the Festival’s evolving ambitions, GLF is actively seeking like-minded partners who believe in the transformative power of arts, education and cultural storytelling. Interested organisations are encouraged to reach out via info@galleliteraryfestival.com.
The Festival’s Opening Night is on January 21, and a limited number of public tickets will be released, offering the public a chance to be part of this evening.
To hear about the speakers, events, and special moments, subscribe to the GLF newsletter at www.galleliteraryfestival.com or follow GLF on socials @gallelitfest.
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