PesText Autumn Festival 2025: World Literature in Budapest
From November 6–8, 2025, Budapest turns into the capital of world literature as the PesText Autumn Festival returns with three days of books, art, inspiration, and community. Set in the atmospheric venues of Három Holló Café and the Petőfi Literary Museum, this international festival gathers renowned writers, poets, illustrators, and readers for free events in the heart of the city.
A Festival of Words and Worlds
Since its founding in 2019, PesText has built bridges between Hungarian literature and global creativity, offering an open, engaging, and accessible program for both professionals and the wider public. It is not just a book fair, but a true literary festival where texts come alive through author meetups, performances, and cross-cultural dialogue.
In 2025, the international guest list features:
- Silvia Avallone
- Inkeri Markkula
- Cara Hunter
- Miljenko Jergović
- Andris Kalnozols
- Grzegorz Musiał
- Ole Könnecke
- Almeida Faria
These respected voices from across Europe will meet Budapest readers face to face, bringing fresh perspectives and new stories to the city’s vibrant literary scene.
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What to Expect
For three autumn days, PesText offers a wide range of programs that go well beyond traditional readings:
- Panel discussions – Engage in thought-provoking conversations with international authors.
- Book signings – Get your favorite titles signed and share a moment with the writers.
- Exhibitions and performances – Explore how literature connects with visual arts, theater, and music.
- Special programs for all ages – Including creative workshops, children’s sessions, and interactive cultural experiences.
Best of all, every single event is free, making it easy for anyone to dive into the world of contemporary literature.
Venues
- Három Holló Café, Piarista köz 1, 1052 Budapest
- Petőfi Literary Museum, Károlyi utca 16, 1053 Budapest
Both venues are centrally located, offering cozy, cultural settings perfect for talk-filled evenings with local and international audiences.
Why Visit PesText?
PesText Autumn 2025 is the perfect opportunity to enjoy Budapest’s cultural side while meeting some of today’s most exciting international writers. The festival blends literature, translation, and visual arts into a truly unique experience, all framed by the city’s charming autumn atmosphere.
If you are in Budapest in November, don’t miss this rare chance to be part of an inspiring exchange of stories, words, and ideas.