The Festival of Stories returns on Saturday 7 March 2026, inviting audiences of all ages to take part and celebrate the power of storytelling in all its forms. Taking place at SPARKS Bristol in Broadmead, the one-day festival will bring together writers, performers, illustrators, oral storytellers and creative thinkers for an inspiring programme of events that place stories at the heart of community, culture and imagination.

The 2026 programme will feature a diverse line-up of local voices, including author and screenwriter Nikesh Shukla, folklore storyteller Marcus Fagon, Queen of Pom Pom's Drag Storytime for Kids, alongside a wide range of indie and makers to be announced. Award winning Author C. L. Taylor will also be facilitating a free flash fiction writing workshop for all abilities. With a focus on inclusivity and creativity, the festival will champion both established names and emerging talent, reflecting Bristol’s vibrant independent arts scene and the city’s long-standing reputation for community-led cultural events.

This year has been declared a National Year of Reading- a campaign run by The National Literacy Trust and this event is part of a pledge to ‘Go All In 2026’ by encouraging reading for pleasure and highlighting all the benefits associated with this. Accessibility and inclusivity is at the heart of the festival- aiming to remove barriers and open up opportunities for people who feel they may be on the margins of the literary community. Fancy dress is very encouraged- we can't wait to celebrate with you!