FAQs

When are details of the programme available?

The 2024 Book Festival programme was launched on 4 June 2024. Sign up to our ebulletins to be among the first to receive updates on events and our top picks.

How long do events last?

The majority of events last one hour. Occasionally some events may be 75 or 90 minutes or even up to two hours long, and events for very young children are often less than an hour. Check the end time of events when booking – each is detailed on the online event listing.

Where is the Book Festival?

The 2024 Book Festival will take place in our new home at Edinburgh Futures Institute. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new site.

Are there any events for children?

Yes, we have a programme of events dedicated to children. It features readings, discussions, storytelling and creative activities to keep children absorbed and entertained.

Do you admit latecomers?

Out of consideration to audience members and authors, latecomers may not be admitted once the doors have been closed to an event, and are not entitled to refund. However, we understand people with young children may need to leave an event unexpectedly and we will help you exit as discreetly as possible, and get you back in again should you want to return. Please be sure to allow yourself enough time to get to the venue and get seated before the event start time. The Festival site and routes to us may be busy with many people milling around, and it may take longer than usual to walk across it to your venue.

Are you running a returns queue?

We don’t run a returns queue. If any tickets become available for a previously sold-out event, they will be released 60-minutes before the start time of the event. They can be booked from our Box Office in the Courtyard area of EFI. We ask that due to space restrictions, in-person bookers do not queue for last minute tickets in advance but turn up just before the 60-minute window, as you may be asked to move.

Will there be a big screen this year?

We will not have a large outdoor screen at EFI this year due to the cost and limitations on space.

Who runs your bookshop?

This year, our Festival Bookshop is brought to you by Waterstones and we’ve filled our shelves with an array of titles from visiting authors, related literature, and local publishers. You’ll also find exclusive copies you won’t get anywhere else.

When is the Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard open?

The Canopy cafe and restaurant are run by the University of Edinburgh. They are running extended hours during the Book Festival.
 

Monday-Friday:
Canopy Restaurant: 8am-9pm (last call)
Canopy Cafe: 8am-4pm

Saturday: 9am-9pm

Sunday: 10am-8pm

How long has the Festival been running?

The very first Book Festival was held in Charlotte Square Gardens in 1983, so 2024 marks our 41st year.

How can I work at the Festival?

We employ short-term temporary staff during the Festival itself in August and some long-term contractual staff from May through to September most years. Recruitment and interviews usually take place from April onwards. We also employ permanent staff who work all year round. When we are recruiting staff it will be advertised on the Jobs page of this website and we also publicise new vacancies via Facebook, X/Twitter and LinkedIn.

How do I find lost property?

If you have misplaced something on site please fill out this form. If your item is found, our team will use the contact details provided to reach out and arrange for you to be reunited with your item. 

Covid-19 safety

The Book Festival will follow Scottish Government and City of Edinburgh Council health and safety recommendations at all times to ensure the safety of our audiences, artists and team. Please continue to check the website for the latest Covid-19 safety measures at Edinburgh International Book Festival.