In 2020, the BVI established one of our most significant festivals yet, the BVI LitFest. Since then, we’ve sought to prove American author John Steinbeck’s famous quote true, “there are never enough books”. Once again, the festival will feature some of our local authors and other regional and international ones. 

With this third instalment taking place in Tortola from 2 to 5 November 2023, we can broaden our literary repertoire, adding new favourites to our “must read” collection. In addition to being a book lovers’ paradise, the festival boasts activities such as panel discussions, book launches, readings and signings, and workshops. It’s an excellent opportunity for local writers, poets, publishers, and booksellers to come together, appreciating each other’s role and strengthening the BVI’s literary scene.

A time to celebrate the literary arts, the BVI LitFest 2023 offers fun-filled activities for the entire family. Here’s a rundown of the event’s schedule:

3 November, 2023

Panel Discussions – “BVI Business Legacies” and “Poetry is a Place” from 10am to 11am.

Panel Discussions – “Auteurs in Bloom” and “A Brighter Sun: The Sam Selvon Centenary” from 11am to noon.

Panel Discussions – “Songs of My People: BVI Songwriters’ Music Lab” and “Caribbean Britannia” from 12:30pm to 1:30pm.

Panel Discussions – “The Ethical Traveler” and “Film: 5 minutes with Elizabeth Nuñez” from 1:30pm to 2:30pm.

Workshop – “Agent One-on-Ones with Elise Dillsworth” from 2:30pm to 3:30pm.

Virtual Theatre – “The Future of Money with Paul Krugman” from 3:30pm to 5pm.

Sunset Stories at Brandywine Estate Restaurant from 7pm to 8:30pm.

4 November, 2023

Literary Wonderland and Children’s Book Camp from 9am to noon.

Workshops – “Odes: The Art of Salvaging Poetry Workshop with Anna Portnoy Brimmer, “For Everyday Use Fiction Workshop with Tiphanie Yanique” and “Life Story Non-Fiction Workshop with Faith Adielé” from 10am to noon.

Workshop – “Agent One-on-Ones with Elise Dillsworth” from 12:30pm to 1:30pm.

Workshop – “An Insider’s Guide to the Publishing Industry with Yona Deshommes” from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

Light a Fire: Poets’ Showcase at Sushi Bar from 6pm to 8pm.

5 November, 2023

Book Brunch at 1748 Restaurant, Long Bay Beach Resort 10am to 2pm.

This November, take part in the BVI LitFest. You can visit the official website or Facebook for more information on the various events.