Postponement of the 2026 Edition of Galle Literary Festival – 22 and 25th January ( Sri Lankan Event )
We have taken the difficult decision this week to postpone the 2026 edition of Galle Literary Festival.
We know that this will be disappointing news for many of you, and we can only apologise for the impact this may have on your plans for January.
Since its founding in 2007, the Festival has played a huge part in establishing Galle as a hub for arts, culture, and thought-provoking conversation. We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors, supporters, and the community of Galle Fort for their continued faith in us.
Since its return in 2024, however, the Festival has faced structural and financial challenges that have prompted us to take a step back and review how we operate. In light of this, we have decided to use this time to reshape and reimagine the festival’s model to ensure its long-term sustainability and continued growth.
As our founder, Geoffrey Dobbs, said this week:
“The Festival has passed through tougher times than this, and has come out bigger and better than before. I feel positive about the future.”
A heartfelt thank you to our guest speakers, partners, sponsors, and wider community, many of whom have been with us for years, for your generosity, encouragement, and support. It truly means the world to the team that brings this festival to life.
All current memberships will be extended through to 2027, and we hope to host a series of smaller literary events and conversations throughout 2026.Your understanding is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to sharing our plans for a revitalised 2027 Galle Literary Festival very soon. The Festival is special to so many of us, and we hope you’ll continue to join us in celebrating creativity, curiosity, and voices from Sri Lanka and beyond.
Warmly,
The GLF Team
