The Saskatchewan Festival of Words has released its lineup of presenters for this year’s 27th edition taking place July 13 to 16, including writers working in fiction, non-fiction, the spoken word, poets, comedians, and musicians.
“We’re really excited for this year’s presenters,” said Amanda Farnel, executive director of the Festival. “It’s always a challenge co-ordinating with everyone and finalizing the details, but we’re all done, and we think we have an incredible group of really diverse voices who are doing amazing work. I know I can’t wait.”
The Saskatchewan Festival of Words is an annual literary event that has been taking place in Moose Jaw since 1996. The festival brings together book lovers, authors, and writers from across Canada to share their love for literature and engage in lively conversations.
The festival takes place over several days and features a wide range of events, including readings, panel discussions, workshops, book signings, a concert, and a spoken word showcase. Attendees will hear from both established and up-and-coming authors and engage with them in intimate settings.
The festival has become a staple in Moose Jaw's cultural calendar and enjoys a solid reputation with presenters across the country.
New this year is a Street Fair on Thursday, July 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. The fair will take place in front of the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre and include mini readings from Jeanette Lynes, Ted Barris, Ken Carriere, Ali Hassan, and S.C. Lalli. There will be food trucks on hand and booths from small and local businesses.
The full list of presenters at the 2023 Saskatchewan Festival of Words is available on the Festival website at https://www.festivalofwords.com/presenters.
Some of the highlights of the Festival schedule include a book club discussion with Suzette Mayr, whose book The Sleeping Car Porter (2022) won the 2022 Giller Prize; a workshop on Breathing Life into Characters with Michelle Good, whose 2020 debut novel Five Little Indians has become a Canadian literary sensation; and an interview with Guy Gavriel Kay, author of numerous internationally bestselling fantasy fiction novels, including Aurora Award-winner Tigana (1990) and World Fantasy Award-winner Ysabel (2007).
Festival passes go on sale on May 10 and include single-day, student, and other flexible options. The Full Pass is $175 plus applicable fees.
The Festival of Words is always on the lookout for volunteers, an important and appreciated part of running the event. Volunteers get a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of running the Festival and are needed for the following positions:
- Stats taker
- Ticket taker
- Introducer
- Registration
- Bookstore
- Nutrition break station
- Transportation for presenters
Volunteers can sign up on the Festival website at https://www.festivalofwords.com/volunteer-info.
