Il Maggio dei Libri 2026: thousands of events across Italy

Il Maggio dei Libri 2026: thousands of events across Italy

The national campaign Il Maggio dei Libri returns in 2026 for its 16th edition under the theme “Every book is a living creature”. The initiative promotes reading as a cultural good and a tool for personal and civic growth, featuring thousands of events across Italy.

Dates: April 23 - May 31, 2026

What to expect

• Book presentations and author talks;
• Read-aloud sessions and thematic series;
• Creative workshops for children and family-oriented activities;
• Events hosted by libraries, schools and independent cultural venues;
• Reading promotion projects in partnership with publishers and associations.

How to take part

Check the official campaign website for the full program and event calendar. Local organizers typically publish details about registration, accessibility and any fees.

Practical tips:

• Consult the local calendar for exact times and event descriptions;
• Confirm whether booking is required or if there are capacity limits;
• Follow the initiative's official social channels for updates;
• If you represent an organization, consider registering your activity to be included in the national program.

Il Maggio dei Libri offers an opportunity to celebrate reading collectively: from intimate author talks to interactive workshops for children, the campaign highlights the book as a living cultural encounter.