Need a coffee or quick lunch between sessions? Within NUspace, there will be pizza and coffee vans as well as a kiosk with healthy takeaway options. A pop-up bar will also operate on the ground floor of NUspace from 2pm to 6pm Saturday and 1pm to 5pm Sunday.

Head to The Press Bookhouse for a “bloody good coffee”, toasties and croissants made on site using fresh ingredients and decadent pastries. Saturday - 8.00am to 6:30pm Sunday - 8.00am to 3.00pm * Service will continue during events after opening hours

Rascals’ menu is created by passionate burger enthusiasts who will debate the place of a pickle ’til the cows come home. And they make stuff from scratch – right down to the seasoning on their fries. Rascals is offering a 10% discount for ticket holders all weekend. Please note that the discount will only apply to online pre-orders. Use the code NWF10.

FogHorn brings craft brewing and locally sourced food to the heart of Newcastle. Stroll to King St and explore their extensive menu of pizzas, burgers, salads, mains and desserts. Thanks to the FogHorn team, NWF ticket holders can get 10% off their orders all weekend!

Head to The Press Bookhouse for a bloody good coffee, toasties, croissants and decadent pastries.

Local venues Rascal and FogHorn Brewery are offering NWF ticket holders a 10% discount all weekend.

a yellow background with the text 'Where to eat at NWF2026', the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, and an illustration of an open book, with pages detaching and flying away like birds.

You will be spoilt for choice at this year’s festival when it comes to food and drink 🍕🍷☕️

Within NUspace, there will be pizza and coffee vans as well as a kiosk with healthy takeaway options. A pop-up bar will operate on the ground floor of NUspace from 2pm to 6pm Saturday and 1pm to 5pm Sunday.

The main festival bookshop in NUspace is located on the ground floor. Book signings will happen on level 2, which can be accessed by the lift or escalator from the foyer. MacLean’s Booksellers will also have books available at the Conservatorium of Music and City Hall and signings will take place at these venues as well.

Let’s be honest. You will end up buying at least one book at the festival so why not walk away with one of our festival tote bags. MacLean’s Booksellers will be stocking them in the main festival bookshop on the ground floor of NUspace. The bags are $25 and the perfect gift for someone in your life who needs a nudge.

If this is your first visit to the festival or you are keen to learn what is new this year, please visit the festival website. Along the top of the main page, there is a FAQs tab and it has key information. If you need assistance while at the festival, you will find volunteers in all venues wearing black T-shirts with a yellow logo. There will also be information tables featuring maps, updated schedules, and tourism information at NUspace foyer and outside City Hall on King St.

Stay up to date on all things #NWF2026 and share your highlights by tagging us in your posts and Stories! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram at @newcastlewritersfestival and on Bluesky @newwritersfest.

📚 Main book shop on NUspace ground floor. Books and signings also at City Hall and the Conservatorium
🎒 Bring a bag or grab a tote at MacLean's in NUspace
ℹ️ Info desk in the NUspace foyer & key information on our website
👋 Volunteers are here to help if you need assistance
🔔 Follow us for updates

We recommend booking your tickets in advance, as events sell out. Please assist our volunteer ushers by having your tickets displayed on your phone or printed. To buy tickets in person or for help with a booking, please visit box office outlets in the foyers of NUspace, Conservatorium of Music, and Newcastle City Hall.

We strongly encourage you to leave your car at home as on-street parking will be difficult to find. The festival is easily accessible from the Newcastle Interchange by light rail and bus. For information about bus, ferry, and train services, visit transportnsw.info. If you choose to drive, allow plenty of travel time as it is a busy weekend in Newcastle and arterial roads will be congested.

It’s set to be a sunny weekend so pack a bottle for water to stay hydrated while you discover the stories behind the stories. You can find filtered hot and cold water on level 1 of NUspace and there are water fountains around the building.

Wear shoes made for walking and clothes that make you feel good! There are plenty of spots around NUspace to sit and take a breather, plus there will be live music over the weekend by University of Newcastle students in the foyer and the lawn (if the weather permits). Acts include Angus Jazz Trio and Lujo.

🎟️ Book your tickets at newcastlewritersfestival.org.au
🤝 Buy tickets in person at the Civic Theatre box office or our pop-up in NUSpace
🚈 Leave your car at home and catch the light rail or bus
💧 Pack a water bottle
👟 Comfort is key - opt for walking shoes

A yellow background with the text 'Festival Survival Guide', the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, and an illustration of an open book, with pages detaching and flying away like birds.

Heading to #NWF2026? 📚 Check out our guide to a seamless festival experience in the thread below!

A photo showing people sitting at tables at our 2026 literary trivia night, with screens behind them showing a trivia question about Peter Rabbit.

On Wednesday night we celebrated the unofficial launch party of #NWF2026 with Literary Trivia 📚 Thank you to Customs House for hosting, @nickmilligan.bsky.social for facilitating and everyone who attended.

Explore the 2026 program at www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/

Bob Carr is shown smiling at the camera, wearing a blazer, blue business shirt and orange tie, with the ocean out of focus in the background.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Bring Back Yesterday: Bob Carr in Conversation’, and the front cover of Bob's book Bring Back Yesterday.

Former NSW premier Bob Carr speaks to @janecaro.bsky.social about his candid new memoir and the fragile, hard-won process of finding solace amid crushing grief.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/bring-back-yesterday-bob-carr-in-conversation/

The text, Driving For by Phillip Aughey, a photo of Phillip and the front cover of his book, Driving For.

The text, The Travelling Soul: Chinese Poetry in Australia with Lap Lam & Josh Stenberg, and photos of Lap and Josh.

Driving For by Phillip Aughey
🎟️ newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/book-launch-driving-for-by-phillip-aughey/

The Travelling Soul: Chinese Poetry in Australia with Lap Lam & Josh Stenberg
🎟️ newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/the-travelling-soul-chinese-poetry-in-australia/

The text, In Early Light by Kit Kelen, a photo of Kit and the front cover of his book, In Early Light.

The text, Iconic Loved Unexpected with Santilla Chingaipe, Jazz Money and Ana Tiquia and a photo of the book, Iconic Loved Unexpected

The text, A Glimpse by Debbie Robson, a photo of Debbie and the front cover of her book, A Glimpse.

In Early Light by Kit Kelen
🎟️ bit.ly/3NvgwtL

Iconic Loved Unexpected with Santilla Chingaipe, Jazz Money & Ana Tiquia
🎟️ bit.ly/4dEl7Ep

A Glimpse by @debbierobson.bsky.social
🎟️ bit.ly/4lIEj6d

The text, A trio of haiku zines by Morgan Bell, a photo of Morgan and the front cover of her book, Glancing the Hold.

The text, Flying Islands Poetry with Dael Allison, Ronald Araña Atilano, Damien Becker, Kit Kelen, DG Lloyd & Gillian Rubinstein and photos of the featured writers.

A trio of haiku zines by @queenboxi.bsky.social
🎟️ bit.ly/47l7dTY

Flying Islands Poetry with Dael Allison, Ronald Araña Atilano, Damien Becker, Kit Kelen, DG Lloyd & Gillian Rubinstein
🎟️ bit.ly/4dDNgLT

a yellow background with the text 'Book launches at NWF2026', the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, and an illustration of an open book, with pages detaching and flying away like birds.

Join us at #NWF2026 for a book launch!

Many of the book launches in this year's program have now sold out, so get in quick to avoid missing out! Learn more in the thread below or at www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/

A collage showing a headshot of Candice on the left and JP on the right.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Murder, They Wrote: Candice Fox and JP Pomare’, and the front covers of Candice's book Redbelly Crossing, and JP's book The Gambler

Dive into the dark world of crime fiction with bestselling writers Candice Fox and JP Pomare, who are making their festival debut. Hosted by Abby Millerd.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/murder-they-wrote-candice-fox-and-jp-pomare/

The titles and times of events held at City Hall, and images of the participating writers. Information about events at City Hall can be found by using the venue filter on the program page of our website and on the Civic Theatre website.

The titles and times of events held at City Hall, and images of the participating writers. Information about events at City Hall can be found by using the venue filter on the program page of our website and on the Civic Theatre website.

The titles and times of events held at City Hall, and images of the participating writers. Information about events at City Hall can be found by using the venue filter on the program page of our website and on the Civic Theatre website.

The titles and times of events held at City Hall, and images of the participating writers. Information about events at City Hall can be found by using the venue filter on the program page of our website and on the Civic Theatre website.

Please note that events held in City Hall must be booked via Civic Theatre ticketing. If you have any questions or require assistance, please call the Civic Theatre box office or email ticketing@newcastlewritersfestival.org.au

A photo taken at our NWF2025 opening night event in Concert Hall, City Hall, the text ‘What's on at City Hall' and 'proudly supported by' with the City of Newcastle logo, and the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March.

We are thrilled to have City of Newcastle as a sponsor of #NWF2026 and to present a series of vibrant events in City Hall!

Learn more and book at civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/what-s-on/al...

A photo of Heather smiling, wearing a black jacket and leaning against a large tree.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'A Great Act of Love: Heather Rose in Conversation’, and the front cover of Heather's novel, A Great Act of Love.

Heather Rose will speak with Jacinta Parsons about her new novel, A Great Act of Love, an artfully woven historical tapestry, drawing on true stories spanning Tasmania, London and Norfolk Island.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/a-great-act-of-love-heather-rose-in-conversation/

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text, 'One week to go. 100 events featuring 150 speakers.' and an illustration of an open book, with pages detaching and flying away like birds.

One more week until #NWF2026

Join us in the Civic Precinct from 27 to 29 March for 100 free and ticketed events featuring 150 writers.

Explore the 2026 program at newcastlewritersfestival.org.au

Literary Trivia with @nickmilligan.bsky.social is less than a week away! Bookings close at 5.00pm on Tues, 24 March.

Customs House has requested that guests wishing to dine during the event upstairs pre-register their interest and select from a shortened dinner menu.

Learn more at bit.ly/4sXpJKv

#NWF2026 would not be possible without the support of our major partner, the University of Newcastle.

Join us for a vibrant range of free and ticketed events at NUspace, the Conservatorium of Music and Watt Space Gallery from March 27 to 29.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/

A photo of Bryan Brown wearing a dark blue jumper and sitting with his arms folded in front of a dark background.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'The Hidden: Bryan Brown in Conversation’, and the front cover of Bryan's novel The Hidden.

With his trademark wit & grit, Bryan Brown will chat to Dan Cox about how he shapes unforgettable characters & channels a lifetime of screen storytelling into fiction that’s as sharp, surprising, & compelling as he is.

🎟️ newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/the-hidden-bryan-brown-in-conversation

A collage showing a headshot of Helen Garner on the left and Brandon Jack on the right.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Talking Footy: Helen Garner & Brandon Jack’, and the front covers of Helen's book The Season and Brandon's book Pissants.

From the emotions that shape players to the dramatic highs and lows that stay with fans, Brandon Jack and Helen Garner explore how sport becomes story with Corrie Perkin.

This event will be livestreamed. 🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/talking-footy-helen-garner-and-brandon-jack/

A white background with yellow to blue gradient text, 'Read the Room' and illustrations of four people reading while sitting on a chair, diving, in a wheelchair and lying down.

A yellow to blue gradient background, illustrations of three people reading while sitting, lying and under a tree and text as follows: Celebrate the Festival’s First Reading Party Sunday 22 5pm - 6pm Newcastle Ocean Baths Settle in under the open sky for the launch of the Festival’s Read the Room project, a series of reading parties to be held in venues across Newcastle in 2026. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of reading, conversation and community.

Settle in under the open sky for the launch of the Festival’s Read the Room project, a series of reading parties to be held in venues across Newcastle in 2026.

Learn more and reserve your spot at www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/celebrate-the-festivals-first-reading-party/

Bri Lee is shown in a dimly lit room with natural light on her face.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Seed: Bri Lee in Conversation’, and the front cover of Bri's novel Seed.

In Bri Lee’s compelling new novel, the award-winning author probes antinatalism, climate despair and what it means to love – and betray – in extremis. Bri speaks with Amy Lovat.

This event will be livestreamed. 🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/seed-bri-lee-in-conversation/

The top two-thirds of the image features a collage with headshots of the featured writers. The bottom third includes the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, The Guardian's logo, and the text 'Guardian Australia’s Are You Game Show with Robbie Arnott, Brigid Delaney, Thomas Mayo, Toby Schmitz and host Steph Harmon'.

Play along with @australia.theguardian.com’s signature game show! With Robbie Arnott, @brigidwd.bsky.social, @thomasmayo.bsky.social, @tobyschmitz.bsky.social and host @stephharmon.bsky.social.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/guardian-australias-are-you-game-show/

A collage showing a headshot of Hannah in the top left corner, JP in the bottom left corner, and Heather on the right.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'This Writing Life with Hannah Kent, JP Pomare, and Heather Rose’, and the front covers of Hannah's book Always Home, Always Homesick, JP's book The Gambler, and Heather's book A Great Act of Love.

@hannahkent.bsky.social, JP Pomare, and Heather Rose reflect on the realities of a life shaped by writing with Kate Evans.

Learn more and book tickets at www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/this-writing-life/

Stephanie Alexander is shown smiling, wearing a checkered blouse and a statement necklace.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Celebrating 30 Years of The Cook’s Companion with Stephanie Alexander’, and the front cover of The Cook’s Companion.

The Cook’s Companion is a staple in many kitchens across the country. Join national treasure Stephanie Alexander as she reflects on its lasting impact with Heather Rose.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/celebrating-30-years-of-the-cooks-companion/

A collage showing a headshot of Samuel on the left, Zeynab in the top right corner and Kate in the bottom right.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'The Thrill of It: Samuel Elliott, Zeynab Gamieldien, and Kate Mildenhall’, and the front covers of Samuel's book Haze, Zeynab's book Learned Behaviours, and Kate's book The Hiding Place.

Samuel Elliott, Zeynab Gamieldien & Kate Mildenhall unite for a gripping discussion about the art of psychological tension & crafting books that keep readers hooked. Hosted by Zohra Aly.

🎟️ newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/the-thrill-of-it-samuel-elliott-zeynab-gamieldien-and-kate-mildenhall

A black and white photo of Zoe wearing a white t-shirt and looking at the camera with their hands behind their head.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'A Queer Reimagining: Zoe Terakes in Conversation’, and the front cover of Zoe's novel Eros

In their debut literary work, actor & writer Zoe Terakes reimagines five ancient Greek myths through a queer & trans perspective, inspired by their own Cretan heritage. Zoe will speak to Kaya Wilson at #NWF2026

🎟️ newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/a-queer-reimagining-zoe-terakes-in-conversation

A collage showing a headshot of Russell on the left, and AC Grayling on the right.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Philosopher's Cafe with Russell Blackford and AC Grayling’, and the front covers of Russell's book How We Became Post-Liberal: The Rise and Fall of Toleration, and Anthony's book For the People.

Join philosophers Russell Blackford and @acgrayling.bsky.social for a deep dive into the values, principles, and assumptions behind some of the big news stories of the day.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/philosophers-cafe-with-russell-blackford-and-ac-grayling/

Re-view: Artists respond to festival books - Newcastle Writers Festival 2026 Celebrate the launch of RE-VIEW at Back to Back Galleries on 27 March from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The exhibition features Hunter region artists who have responded to books by authors...

Celebrate the launch of RE-VIEW at Back to Back Galleries. The exhibition features 25 Hunter region artists who have responded to books by authors featured in the #NWF2026 program.

📅 27 March from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
🔗 www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/re-view-art-exhibition/

A black and white photo of David Day smiling, wearing a dark jumper and a Panama hat.

A yellow background with the NWF logo and dates, 27-29 March, the text 'Hawke PM: The Making of a Legend with David Day’, and the front cover of David's novel Hawke PM.

Tracing Bob Hawke’s rise from union firebrand to PM, David Day speaks to @julie-mcintyre.bsky.social about the mythmaking surrounding the politician and why his legacy continues to shape Australian politics.

🎟️ www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au/events/hawke-pm-the-making-of-a-legend/