2025 Literary Festival

The Marblehead Festival of Arts’ popular Literary Festival is just a few short months away, and we’ve got a full slate of author talks, workshops, interviews with writers, and more. For those who love words—and how they combine to depict humor, pathos, joy, conflict, and more—we’ve arranged a terrific four-day exploration of everything you love.

This year’s Literary Festival runs from Wednesday, July 2 through Saturday, July 5 with most programs taking place at Marblehead’s Unitarian Universalist Church and the Marblehead Arts Association.

A perennial highlight of the Festival takes place on July 4 at 1:00 pm when we celebrate the winners of our popular annual literary contest by giving them the opportunity to read their winning entries. All entries will be available to read throughout the Festival in the library at the rear of the Unitarian church.

This year’s slate of presenters represents both impressive talent and a wide range of disciplines. Through participatory performance and workshops, author presentations and interviews, a silent reading party, and more, you’ll have an unparalleled opportunity to learn from practitioners at the top of their art.

New this year is an audience participation event modeled on NPR’s well-known Moth Radio Hour. Marblehead’s Moth-inspired event invites you to tell true stories, live and without notes, to an audience of your peers.

If you love words, come celebrate with us over the 4thof July weekend! We’re certain you’ll be well rewarded!