The Word On The Street’s 37th Annual Festival returns to its iconic fall weekend, September 26th and 27th, at David Pecaut Square.
Saturday, September 26 – 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, September 27 – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
100% Free to attend! Select a stage below to explore the schedule.
The full 2026 festival program is currently being developed.
Check back in early August for more information!
The Neighbourhood Stage celebrates the stories, voices and history that shape our streets and where we live. Join local authors, creators, and community leaders for engaging conversations highlighting the people, places, and experiences found close to home. Through shared stories and perspectives, discover what connects our communities.
Author Signings will be held at the Queen Books tent following each session. Check the schedule outside The Neighbourhood Stage for signing times.
Stage Sponsor
Official Bookseller
The Vibrant Voices Stage celebrates the richness of storytelling, bringing together authors and creators whose works reflect diverse ideas and perspectives. From emerging voices to familiar favourites, take in thoughtful discussions and inspiring sessions recognizing the many stories, ideas, and creative approaches shaping today’s literary landscape.
Author Signings will be held at the Another Story Bookshop tent following each session. Check the schedule outside the Vibrant Voices Stage for signing times.
Stage Sponsor
Official Bookseller
The Love & Shadows Stage is the destination for lovers of imaginative fiction. Spanning topics from sci-fi and fantasy to romance, mystery, crime and horror, this stage showcases authors and creators who bring unforgettable stories to life. Celebrate the craft of writing and find your next great read while exploring the ideas, characters, and worlds that make fiction so compelling.
Author Signings will be held at the Bakka-Phoenix Books tent following each session. Check the schedule outside the Love & Shadows Stage for signing times.
Stage Sponsor
Official Bookseller
The Young Readers Tent is packed with fun for younger readers and their families! Spend the day discovering stories full of laugh-out-loud moments and unforgettable adventures. Whether it’s a first introduction to reading or revisiting favourite stories and characters, there’s something for every young visitor.
Author Signings will be held at the Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore tent following each session. Check the schedule outside the Young Readers Tent for signing times.
Young Readers Tent hosted by author Patricia Storms.
Stage Sponsor
Official Bookseller
The Kids Activity Tent is the perfect place for young visitors to explore their creativity through hands-on, book-inspired activities. Enjoy story read-aloud sessions followed by themed interactive experiences that encourage imagination, curiosity and playful learning while celebrating the many ways stories can come to life.
Author Signings will be held at the Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore tent following each session. Check the schedule outside the Kids Activity Tent for signing times.
Kids Activity Tent hosted by author and educator Kari-Lynn Winters.
Stage Sponsor
Official Bookseller
Learn, Create & Connect.
Join writers, readers, and publishing professionals for a series of engaging workshops designed to inspire creativity, build skills, and explore the many pathways of storytelling and publishing.
From developing your next great idea to navigating publishing, editing, magazines, and book promotion, WOTS workshops offer practical insights and opportunities to connect with experienced creators and industry experts.
Pre-registration is required.
Register using the link below.
Workshops Sponsor
In addition to the amazing featured readings and interviews onstage at the festival, audiences will be informed, entertained, and have the opportunity to discover more programming throughout the festival grounds, courtesy of some of our wonderful partners.
