This month, books take centre stage in Antwerp during November Book Month, inviting people to partake in more than 100 activities, from author readings to literary workshops and walks.
The iconic month started on 2 November with the music and literature festival Crossing Border, which showcased contemporary writers, poets, and musicians, blending various genres and art forms.
This was followed by a brand new festival Permeke's 24 Hours on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 November, which saw people celebrate their love of books through readings, playful games, hours of dancing between the bookshelves and a cosy literary breakfast.
But the festivities don't end there. Until the end of the month, people young and old with a passion for books, reading and listening will be spoiled with events and activities in libraries and bookshops.
"With November Book Month, this year we are once again focusing on a wide range of reading pleasure, festivals, author encounters in bookshops and libraries, and much more," said Nabilla Ait Daoud, alderwoman for culture.
What's on the agenda?
During the first weekend, visitors are invited to explore Antwerp's city centre and its most beautiful bookshops, book cafes and literary houses, either alone or guided by poets such as Esohe Weyden and Andy Fierens. The various stopping points organise their own activities, from literary exhibitions and lectures to a cartoon workshop and translators telling stories.
Later in the month, Grafixx, a festival for illustration, drawing and cartooning, will see artists from the four corners of the globe treat art lovers with live performances, lectures, exhibitions and workshops encouraging the audience to get their hands dirty.
This will run alongside Antwerp's only 'zine fest', where independent makers and publishers will showcase their quirky publications in an edition centred around the tension between comics, illustration and graphics.
Grafixx, the festival for illustration, drawing and cartooning. Credit: City of Antwerp
From 18 to 26 November, it is 'Read Aloud Week' with a focus on finding a reading buddy, either to read to or who reads out loud to them. This week will kick off with activities in the various Antwerp libraries for a read-aloud brunch.
Book Month will conclude at Permeke with the Storytelling Festival. On Saturday 25 November, a series of readings and storytelling will be held through a variation of mediums, from a large pagan box to a story wall. During the night, book lovers will gather for 'People Say Things', a literary show that jumps from poetry to slam to prose with the occasional punchline thrown in.
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On 26 November, children will have an opportunity to showcase their verbal skills. Another standout activity includes an ‘edit-a-thon’ at the Letterenhuis, where contributors can help enhance Wikipedia pages related to Flemish youth literature.
Find the full programme here.
