The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has become a beacon for literary enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, shining brightly in the heart of Bali. Founded in 2004 as a healing project in response to the 2002 Bali bombings, this festival has grown into one of the most significant cultural events in Southeast Asia. Over the years, it has garnered international recognition, being named one of the top five literary festivals in the world by The Daily Telegraph and featured by The Wall Street Journal as a prime cultural festival.
The festival's diverse programming is a testament to its commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and creative expression. With author talks, panel discussions, workshops, and performances, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival provides a platform for emerging and established writers, thinkers, and artists to share their work and ideas. Each year, the festival explores a specific theme, inviting participants to reflect on pressing issues and timeless questions. In 2025, the theme "Aham Brahmasmi" (I am the Universe) invites us to ponder the unity of the human self with the universe, sparking meaningful conversations and debates.
Beyond its literary and cultural significance, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is deeply rooted in its Balinese setting, incorporating traditional culture and art forms into its programming. The festival's commitment to community engagement is evident in initiatives such as the Emerging Writers Program, which provides opportunities for young writers to develop their craft and connect with industry professionals. By bringing together people from around the world, the festival creates a vibrant and inclusive space for cultural exchange, creativity, and inspiration.
Founding and Purpose
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has a profound history that is deeply intertwined with the island of Bali's resilience and spirit. Founded in 2004 by Janet DeNeefe, her husband Ketut Suardana, and their daughter Laksmi DeNeefe Suardana, the festival was born out of a desire to heal and bring people together in the aftermath of the 2002 Bali bombings. This pivotal event shook the island and its people, but it also galvanized a sense of community and determination. The festival's founders envisioned a celebration of literature, art, and culture that would not only showcase the richness of Balinese and Indonesian heritage but also provide a platform for cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival's mission extends far beyond the realm of mere entertainment. It aims to promote literature, art, and culture in a way that fosters community engagement and social responsibility. By bringing together writers, readers, artists, and thinkers from around the world, the festival creates a vibrant and inclusive space for dialogue, creativity, and inspiration. Through its diverse programming, the festival encourages participants to engage with pressing issues, explore new ideas, and celebrate the beauty of human expression. In doing so, it has become a beacon for literary enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, shining a light on the power of art and literature to bring people together and inspire positive change.
Growth and Recognition
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has undergone significant growth and transformation since its inception in 2004. What began as a small community initiative in response to the Bali bombings has blossomed into one of Southeast Asia's most revered literary events, attracting thousands of participants from around the globe. The festival's stature and recognition have soared over the years, earning its place as one of the largest and most meaningful literary festivals in the region. Its impact extends beyond the literary world, fostering cross-cultural exchange and community engagement.
The festival's prestige is reflected in its international recognition, with esteemed publications such as The Daily Telegraph naming it one of the top five literary festivals in the world. The Wall Street Journal has also featured it as a prime cultural festival, highlighting its significance in the global literary scene. The festival's reputation as a hub for ideas, creativity, and intellectual discourse has drawn renowned authors, thinkers, and artists to its stage. With its rich programming, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to promoting literature and culture, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival continues to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying its position as a leading cultural event in Southeast Asia.
Diverse Programming
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is a vibrant celebration of literature, art, and culture, featuring a diverse range of programs that cater to various interests and passions. The festival's lineup includes author talks, where renowned writers share their insights and experiences, and panel discussions, which provide a platform for in-depth explorations of pressing issues and topics. Workshops offer hands-on learning experiences, allowing participants to hone their creative skills and tap into their imagination. Literary lunches provide an intimate setting for authors to connect with readers and discuss their work, while performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia and beyond.
The festival's diverse programming is designed to showcase the work of both emerging and established writers, thinkers, and artists from around the world. By bringing together individuals from different cultural backgrounds and disciplines, the festival provides a unique platform for cross-cultural exchange and dialogue. Participants have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and creative expressions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexities of human experience. Through its inclusive and dynamic programming, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival creates a space for meaningful connections, creative collaborations, and intellectual exploration, making it a truly enriching experience for all involved.
Thematic Focus
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is known for its thought-provoking themes, which serve as a guiding force for the festival's programming and activities. Each year, the festival explores a specific theme that invites participants to reflect on pressing issues, timeless questions, and the human experience. In 2025, the festival's theme is "Aham Brahmasmi" (I am the Universe), a Sanskrit phrase that encapsulates the idea of the unity of the human self with the universe. This theme encourages participants to ponder the interconnectedness of all things, the nature of existence, and our place within the larger cosmos.
The theme of "Aham Brahmasmi" serves as a catalyst for discussions, debates, and creative expression, inspiring participants to explore new ideas, challenge their assumptions, and tap into their imagination. Through author talks, panel discussions, workshops, and performances, the festival provides a platform for participants to engage with the theme in a meaningful way, sharing their insights, perspectives, and creative interpretations. By exploring the unity of the human self with the universe, the festival aims to foster a deeper understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and our place in the world, promoting a sense of connection, empathy, and compassion.
Community Engagement
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is deeply rooted in its Balinese setting, and this is reflected in its programming and activities. The festival incorporates traditional culture and art forms, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bali and Indonesia. By blending traditional and contemporary elements, the festival creates a unique and immersive experience that is both rooted in the local culture and open to global influences. This approach not only highlights the beauty and diversity of Balinese culture but also provides a platform for cross-cultural exchange and understanding.
The festival's commitment to engaging with the local community is evident in initiatives such as the Emerging Writers Program. This program provides opportunities for young writers to develop their craft, connect with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights into the world of writing and publishing. By nurturing the next generation of writers, the festival helps to build a vibrant and sustainable literary community in Bali and beyond. The program also serves as a model for community engagement and cultural development, demonstrating the importance of investing in the creative potential of young people and providing them with opportunities to grow and thrive. Through its community-focused initiatives, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival makes a lasting impact on the local community and contributes to the development of a thriving cultural ecosystem.
As the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its rich programming and cultural significance, it's time to secure your spot at this extraordinary event. Don't miss out on the opportunity to engage with renowned authors, thinkers, and artists, and to be a part of the vibrant literary community that the festival fosters. Get your Early Bird tickets now and be among the first to experience the magic of the 2025 festival! Tickets are available for purchase on the official festival website, and Early Bird discounts are limited, so act fast to take advantage of this special offer. Join the conversation, ignite your creativity, and be a part of the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival's legacy – buy your tickets today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Early bird tickets go on sale now at ubudwritersfestival.com/tickets. Discounts for KITAS/KITAP holders, ASEAN country citizens, and students are also available. With the full program release on Monday, 18 August, our regular Festival Passes will go on sale. Festival-goers can choose between our 4-Day Festival Passes and 1-Day Festival Passes. Special Events and Masterclasses will also be available for purchase simultaneously.
