Wordfest's Fall Imaginairium Festival Returns Oct. 13-18, 2026

We’re thrilled to reveal the first six authors appearing at the 2026 Imaginairium festival: Superstars who personify the dazzling range of Canadian storytelling! And they are all the very best humans, which makes the opportunity for you to connect with each of them this fall even more magical.

“It’s an amazing festival, and I think the literary community agrees that it’s one of the best out there. It is a festival that feels like a community,” says David A. Roberston,  who has been showcased at the Imaginairium every year since 2015 and will also be returning this year. He stresses how much passion and innovation the Wordfest team instills in its curation.  “They’re not typical events, and their youth programming is amazing.”

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 Imaginairium, Canada’s Liveliest Literary Festival, returns Oct. 13 to 18, 2026. Festival Passes on sale now. 

First Six Imaginairium Authors Revealed!

Patrick deWitt, Catherine Leroux, Emily St. John Mandel, Ruth Ozeki, Rollie Pemberton, and Eden Robinson are the beginning of the 50+ authors coming to the Imaginairium by Wordfest.  

2025 Imaginairium Highlights

A lively sampling of last year’s festivities. And a taste of what to expect in 2026!

Experience MORE with a 2026 Imaginairium Pass! (On Sale Now)

Meet incredible authors, discover exceptional books, expand your social circle, and make lasting connections. Customize your Wordfest experience in 2026 with our special pass options! Given how many of our shows sell out quickly, it’s the best way to avoid FOMO and guarantee life-changing experiences all-year round, while being able to experiment with new-to-you authors and formats. >> READ MORE

Why Writers Love Wordfest's Imaginairium Festival

Canada’s most engaging authors show up with curiosity, courage, and care, making Wordfest’s fall festival a true celebration of creativity and community. Video by Pluto Pictures.

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