Join us on an enchanting journey to Clunes, the heart of Victoria's literary landscape, for the Clunes Booktown Festival 2024. This year, on the 23rd and 24th of March, the quaint historic hamlet of Clunes, just 36km north of Ballarat, transforms into a haven for book enthusiasts, writers, and musicians alike.
For the first time ever, we're opening the gates to this celebrated event free of charge, inviting one and all to explore the iconic open-air book bazaar. Wander through aisles of new, second-hand, and rare volumes, uncover hidden gems, and revel in the joy of free music and engaging family activities set among the backdrop of Clunes' picturesque streetscapes.
This year's festival boasts a stellar line-up of authors and artists, including the likes of Helen Garner, Tony Birch, Sofie Laguna, Alice Pung, Maxine Beneba Clarke, and Toni Jordan, who will grace our stages and panels. Prepared to be moved, challenged, and inspired as they delve into pressing topics such as the ethics of crime writing, the cultural significance of alcohol in Australia, the crafting of meaningful literature for young readers, and the vital role of journalism in our democracy.
Curated by Creative Clunes CEO Sue Beal, the 2024 program spans a diverse range of genres and subjects from history and romance to fantasy, poetry, self-publishing, and journalism. Highlights include thought-provoking panels like ‘Let Me Read to You’, where seasoned storytellers will weave their magic, and ‘Killing Women, Fact and Fiction’, a timely debate on the portrayal of women in crime literature.
The festival also shines a light on stories of resilience and empowerment, with panels such as ‘Building a Career’ featuring two First Nations women discussing their paths to agency, self-worth, and recognition.
‘Telling Our Stories’ and ‘Making Queer History’ promise profound insights into personal and collective narratives that shape our society.
In addition to captivating author talks and panels, the festival celebrates Victorian stories, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the goldfields and the State Library Victoria's conservation efforts. Not to mention, the local food and wine on offer will ensure that your festival experience is as delicious as it is enlightening.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of books and ideas in the charming setting of Clunes.
