Calling all bookworms: The countdown is on for the 2022 Charleston Literary Festival , returning to the Holy City one week from today.
The 10-day event kicks off on Fri., Nov. 4, and runs until Sun., Nov. 13. Here’s what to expect this year — be sure to keep an eye on the website for updates.
What’s it all about?
Held annually, the Charleston Literary Festival features a variety of speakers , including Pulitzer, Booker, and Nobel prize winners at various venues throughout the city to engage in conversations, meet readers, and sign novels. Attendees are also given the opportunity to contribute their thoughts and ideas in this setting.
The history
Beginning in 2017 + modeled after a literary festival in Sussex, England, the concept of the Charleston Literary Festival started with a collaboration between the Charleston Library Society and the Charleston Trust in the U.K.
Today, it has grown to explore relevant issues through conversations with novelists, journalists, historians, scientists, poets, biographers + performers.
Events + speakers
This is the festival’s first fully in-person event since 2019 , featuring a scheduled lineup of 29 speakers. Pssst: A handful of virtual events are also offered.
Here’s a glimpse at a few programs:
📚 Opening Party | Sat., Nov. 5 | 8 p.m. | Rivers Green at The College of Charleston, 71 Coming St. | $175 | Enjoy this kickoff celebration with award-winning artist Wycliffe Gordon & His International All Stars + locally-sourced bites from Chef Tonya Mitchell.
📚 Tim Bouverie with Edward Hart: Perfect Pitch | Tues., Nov. 8 | 6 p.m. | The Charleston Library Society, 164 King St. | Dive into this distinguished British historian’s selection of classical music.
📚 Lyndall Gordon with Bill Goldstein: T.S. Eliot’s Hidden Muse | Sun., Nov. 13 | 2 p.m. | Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St. | Explore the British biographer’s latest work featuring 1,131 recently unsealed letters written by poet T.S. Eliot.
Tickets
Find ticket details for each event, ranging from no cost to $35, excluding the Opening Party ticket price.
Pro tip: A student discount is available. Email to inquire.