Press releases

World-Class Literature in Zurich

6 May 2025

Dear Literature Enthusiasts and Festival Fans,

The 13th edition of the Zurich Literature Festival is just around the corner! From 7 to 13 July 2025, the Old Botanical Garden will once again transform into a literary garden of Eden. Nestled amidst lush greenery, our legendary open-air stage provides a magical backdrop that makes our festival unique worldwide. Look forward to a week filled with captivating readings, insightful discussions, and unforgettable encounters with some of the most prominent voices and stars of the international literary scene. The themes are as current and pressing as ever – from the revolution of love to the future of democracy

Programme Highlights:

  • Anne Enright, Booker Prize-winning author from Ireland, graces the festival with a rare appearance, presenting her new novel The Wren, The Wren – a touching family saga with an uncanny pull.

  • Bestselling authors Emilia Roig and Nora Bossong engage in a conversation with Nicola Steiner about new forms and facets of love – because yes, there's much more beyond the classic two-person setup!

  • Paul Lynch, winner of the 2023 Booker Prize, brings his dystopian success Prophet Song along with his acclaimed fourth novel Beyond the Sea, both vividly portraying the struggle for survival under extreme conditions.

  • Omri Boehm and Jonas Lüscher, among the most sought-after intellectuals of our time, join philosopher Barbara Bleisch to analyze societal challenges – from identity politics to the future of democracy.

  • Renowned American political scientist and cultural theorist Francis Fukuyama travels from California specifically for the festival. In conversation with Philipp Tingler, he discusses how our democracies can confront divisions and authoritarian threats.

  • Another major highlight: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, international bestselling author and feminist icon, presents her new book Dream Count – a compelling, urgent, and intelligent novel about four women whose fates are intertwined. The literary superstar from Nigeria makes an exclusive appearance at the festival!

  • For a rousing festival finale, our popular format Words on Stage features the crème de la crème of the spoken-word scene: Reena Krishnaraja, Laurin Buser, Kilian Ziegler, Gina Walter, and the cabaret duo schön & gut.

With so many literary highlights, tickets sell out quickly – secure yours now! And if you can't get a ticket, don't be disheartened: events can also be followed via our high-quality livestreams in TV quality.

We are thrilled about our distinguished guests—and, of course, about welcoming you!

Your Zurich Literature Festival,
Presented by Kaufleuten & Literaturhaus Zürich