Newburyport Literary Festival

A Celebration of Literature, Readers, and Writers
• Save the Date! •
• In-Person & Virtual Events • April 24–26, 2026 •

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For the Press

The 2026 Newburyport Literary Festival will feature the following:

Friday, April 24:

  • Opening ceremony: North Shore artist and designer Michael Updike, son of literary legend John Updike, will discuss Selected Letters of John Updike by James Schiff with The New York Times Book Review critic Alexandra Jacobs, a life-long Updike fan. Firehouse Center for the Arts, 6:00 p.m. (no cost to attend).

 

  • Welcome Event: After the opening ceremony, join us for a casual welcome event with authors, poets, and moderators (ticketed; $50/person). Mission Oak Grill’s Steeple Hall, 26 Green Street, Newburyport.

 

Saturday, April 25:

  • A vibrant day of in-person author readings and signings (no cost to attend).

 

  • Closing event: Women’s Voices of Rebellion and Revolution, featuring readings of women’s writing. As the U.S. reflects on 250 years as a nation, this event celebrates voices that were largely uncelebrated at the time. Firehouse Center for the Arts, 7:00 p.m. (no cost to attend).

 

Sunday, April 26:

  • An exciting day of virtual author readings and discussions (no cost to attend).

The full schedule of events is now available!

For more information or to set up an interview, please contact the festival committee.

2026 press release:

Newburyport Literary Festival Announces its 21st Annual Event April 24–26, 2026