The 49th edition of the Feria Internacional del Libro de Buenos Aires (Buenos Aires International Book Fair), one of the most prestigious and popular literary events in the Spanish-speaking world, has returned – and this year’s event has a uniquely Middle Eastern flavour.
This year’s fair, which runs from April 24 to May 12 at the La Rural exhibition centre, features Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, as the Guest City of Honor – a historic first.
Organised by the Fundación El Libro, the book fair is a pivotal cultural event that consistently attracts a large number of participants and attendees – more than 1.1 million attended last year’s edition.
This year’s theme, “Books Across Borders,” highlights the role of literature as a bridge between civilisations. The choice of Riyadh marks the first time an Arab city has been granted this distinction and organisers hope to introduce Argentine and international audiences to the rich literary and cultural heritage of the Saudi capital.
Panel discussions will explore the intersection of narratives from the Arab world with Latin American experiences of identity, diaspora, and resistance. The programme also features poetry readings and exhibitions that focus on classical and contemporary Arab literature.
That doesn’t mean, however, that the focus is purely on Saudi Arabia. Authors from more than 40 countries – including South Korea, Ireland, and Ukraine, as well as Guatemala, Chile, and Portugal – will offer over 1,500 activities spanning two weeks.
Less political tone?
Organisers of the event hope this year’s edition will pass by more serenely than last time out, when President Javier Milei clashes with the Fundación El Libro over funding, costs and security ahead of a proposed book presentation.
At odds with the foundation’s president, Alejandro Vaccaro, Milei moved his event elsewhere amid mutual recrimination. Later in the year, the Fundación El Libro chose a new chief, Christian Rainone, who is overseeing this year’s feria.
The book fair’s inauguration on April 24 will feature a keynote address by Juan Sasturain, a renowned Argentine author and journalist who, in 2020, was appointed as the Director of the National Library Mariano Moreno in Argentina, serving three years.
Sasturain’s speech is expected to set the tone for a fair rooted in literary celebration and cultural exchange. He will also present his new novel at the event, Tinta China.
This year’s thematic axes combine tradition and innovation, encompassing not only the cultural integration of Arab identity but also panels on artificial intelligence in the publishing industry and digital education, as well as poetry festivals and storytelling gatherings.
The “Writers' Dialogue” series returns, featuring Claudia Piñeiro, Pedro Maira and Guillermo Martínez, among others. “The Indigenous Word,” dedicated to indigenous languages and ancestral cultures, also draws the eye.
As the literary world converges on Buenos Aires, anticipation is already building for the 50th edition in 2026, which promises to be a landmark celebration in the fair’s storied history.
This year’s robust programming and engaging cultural integration ensures the 2025 fair will be a destination for people who believe in the power of words and literature.
TICKET INFO:
Tickets range from 5,000 to 8,000 pesos and include discount vouchers for use after the Fair. A three-day fair pass is available for purchase on the event’s website for just 12,000 pesos. Admission is free every day for children under 12, people with disabilities, and teachers.
www.el-libro.org.ar
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