Wordfest's Fall Imaginairium Festival Returns Oct. 13-18, 2026
The Imaginairium, Canada’s Liveliest Literary Festival, returns Oct. 13 to 18, 2026. Festival Passes on sale now.
We’re thrilled to begin revealing the authors appearing at the 2026 Imaginairium festival: Superstars who personify the dazzling range of Canadian and international storytelling. And they are the very best humans, which makes the opportunity for you to connect with each of them this fall even more magical.
We’ll be updating this page regularly with author reveals and special festival offers. Check out our FAQ page. Get your Festival Pass now for the best value—and access to our most popular shows, such as The Way We… Wear and Literary Death Match. The full festival schedule will be announced on Aug. 18, and you can get the inside scoop on all 40+ shows at the Festival Preview on Sept. 10 (followed by a bonus show featuring Téa Muntonji).
AI SCAM ALERT: Invitations to appear at Wordfest are sent by publishers to their authors. If you receive any communication from an email account (particularly a gmail account) purporting to be from a Wordfest representative, it is likely an AI-generated scam. We only work through publishers to avoid this unconscionable exploitation and our official emails are from emails ending in wordfest.com. We never charge authors or artists to be part of our programming.
What to Expect at a Wordfest Show
Click to reveal the answer to our most commonly asked questions.
How early should I arrive at a Wordfest show?
We recommend arriving when doors open (noted on your ticket) as Wordfest tickets are general admission. Arriving early gives you a chance to find a great seat, grab a libation from the venue’s lobby bar, and browse the bookseller and merch tables.
Are books available for sale at Wordfest shows?
Yes, come early and browse the pop-up bookstore in the venue lobby before and after every Wordfest show. Here you’ll find the featured titles from each event as well as a selection of backlist and other recommended reads from the show’s themes. During the Imaginairium, discover the full collection of festival books, all in one place, at the pop-up bookstores in Memorial Park Library and DJD Dance Centre!
At standalone shows throughout the year, we partner with independent booksellers such as Owl’s Nest Books, Shelf Life Books, Slow Burn Books, and Nocturne Books.
Does Wordfest have merch?
Yes! At most shows, the onsite bookseller will have a selection of Wordfest swag and merch available for purchase, including custom tote bags, stickers, and new Human-Focused Mission buttons! All Wordfest merch proceeds go to Wordfest Youth (fuelling teen literacy in Calgary). We never use AI and always pay the artists.
Will the author sign books after a Wordfest show?
Most Wordfest shows include a signing after the show where you’ll have the opportunity to chat with the author, get a selfie, and have your books personalized.
However, we recommend checking the details of the show description to confirm, as some experiences (at the request of the author) may offer presigned books, limited personalizations, no selfies, or a post-show photo opportunity only (no signing).
Can I preorder my book before a Wordfest show?
Every show has a pre-order link. Patrons can purchase books through the bookseller in advance.
Want your book signed before the show? Arrive early, purchase your book(s) and let the onsite bookseller know. If the author has time in the green room, we will get them to sign in advance.
Which Wordfest venues have bar service?
Bar service is available at Memorial Park Library, 2nd Floor (for events after noon) and at DJD Dance Centre and Central Library (evening events). Drinks can be enjoyed in lobby spaces and at your seat during the show. We feature alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Can I access recordings of past Wordfest shows?
We turn the audio recordings of our most memorable in-person shows into new episodes of Imagine On Air, available here. Check back regularly for more thought-provoking episodes, custom-crafted for you by Wordfest.
We’ve also assembled a hand-picked selection of our most memorable online shows and other feature films, available here.
Where can I find photos or recaps of the Wordfest show I just attended?
Indeed, “The FOMO is Reel.” Look for post-show recaps from Wordfest’s social media team and a selection of the best photos from our official photographer David Kotsibie on our Instagram Reels page here.
For select shows (e.g. where a professional photo with the author is included in the experience), we provide ticket holders with a link to download and share their photos.
Visiting from Out of Town?
Whether you’re visiting the city for a Wordfest show, or looking to build a special staycation experience, we have options!
What hotel do you recommend for shows near Memorial Park Library?
We recommend the Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites (239 12th Avenue SW, Calgary), which is located directly across from Wordfest’s home at Memorial Park Library.
Here is their booking link to reserve a room at the preferred Wordfest rate.
Guests can also book by phone at 1‑888‑236‑2427 and reference the “Wordfest Fall Imaginairium Festival Room Block”. Some restrictions apply. Please inquire when calling.
What hotel do you recommend for shows near Central Library?
We recommend Alt Hotel East Village (635 Confluence Way SE, Calgary).
Valid during the Imaginairium Festival Only (Oct. 13-18, 2026): Please use is this booking link (or reference room block 2610WORDFE if reserving by phone) to book rooms at the Wordfest rate.
For shows outside the festival: Please make your reservation by phone and reference the booking block name WORDFEST.
Guests may contact the hotel at 1-833-391-0482 for Front Desk assistance. Some restrictions apply. Please inquire when calling.
Meet the 2026 Imaginairists!
And they are just the beginning of the 50+ authors coming to the Imaginairium by Wordfest, Oct 13-18.
Experience MORE with a 2026 Festival Pass!
Meet incredible authors, discover exceptional books, expand your social circle, and make lasting connections. Customize your Imaginairium experience in 2026 with a Festival Pass! Given how many of our shows sell out quickly, it’s the best way to avoid FOMO and guarantee life-changing experiences, while being able to experiment with new-to-you authors and formats. >> READ MORE
2025 Imaginairium Highlights
A lively sampling of last year’s festivities. And a taste of what to expect in 2026!
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