Helsinki Book Fair
22–25 Oct 2026
Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre
The 2026 Theme of the Helsinki Book Fair is Language
In 2026, the Helsinki Book Fair celebrates language – its power, meaning, and possibilities in literature. The programme explores the development of language and the many ways it can be shaped in the hands of writers.
The theme will be reflected in the programme in several ways. In discussions organised in collaboration with Helsingin Sanomat, speakers will examine the current state and future of the Finnish language. A new series of multilingual literary discussions will bring forward organisations and communities representing language minorities. In addition, the fair will feature an expanded programme on translation and world literature – topics that open new perspectives on literature and foster international dialogue.
The 2026 theme is also reflected in the fair’s new visual identity, once again designed by Tero Ahonen.
Each year, the Helsinki Book Fair presents nearly one thousand programme sessions, bringing together the most exciting new books and authors across all genres.
At the same time with the same ticket:
Anniversary Highlights
An incredible milestone reached – Helsinki Book Fair celebrates a historic attendance record
The 25th anniversary year of the Helsinki Book Fair culminated in an all-time record: over four days, an extraordinary 104,000 visitors attended the fair. This historic figure decisively surpassed last year’s record and reaffirmed the Helsinki Book Fair’s position as Finland’s most significant cultural event.
The 2025 theme, Learning and Joy, was reflected across the stages in an unprecedented way. In honour of the anniversary, a truly historic moment took place on the Senate Square Stage, where all of Finland’s presidents – from Alexander Stubb to Sauli Niinistö and Tarja Halonen – came to discuss the power of education and culture. President Stubb captured the spirit of the occasion by stating that reading is the most enduring cornerstone of Finnish society.
Over the course of four days, the fair featured nearly 1,000 inspiring programme sessions and close to two thousand speakers, ranging from leading Finnish voices to international stars. Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre was filled with a unique atmosphere of encounters, ideas, and the sheer joy of reading.
Our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of the more than 100,000 visitors – you made this anniversary year truly unforgettable. 📖✨
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