FILBo 2026: When Bogotá Becomes the World Capital of Books
The Bogotá International Book Fair is not just an event, it's a ritual that transforms the city each year into a territory where words reign. Between April and May 2026, the Corferias fairgrounds will be filled with that particular silence that only exists among bookshelves, interrupted by the murmurs of readers discovering new worlds and the rustle of pages being opened for the first time.
FILBo has that magic of turning passersby into literary explorers. It doesn't matter if you arrive looking for a specific bestseller or simply to let yourself be carried away by the aisles; you always end up finding something you didn't know you needed to read. It's the place where books find their readers, and where readers find versions of themselves they didn't know existed.
Dates, Times, and Location: Your Map to Not Miss Anything
Official Dates: April 22 to May 4, 2026
Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm | Saturdays and Sundays: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Location: Corferias, Carrera 40 #22-67, Bogotá, Colombia
Admission Fee: General: $15,000 COP | Students and seniors: $10,000 COP | Children under 12: free admission
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Corferias transforms during these days. What is normally a space for trade fairs becomes a city within the city, with its own streets (themed aisles), squares (rest areas), and temporary inhabitants (books and their authors).
Authors Who Will Bring Pages to Life
FILBo 2026 brings a constellation of writers who will make words leap off the pages. Among those confirmed:
- Isabel Allende (Chile) - The magician of magical realism returns with her new historical novel
- Fernando Vallejo (Colombia) - The literary polemicist will present his latest essay
- Megan Maxwell (Spain) - The queen of contemporary romance in Spanish
- Juan Gabriel Vásquez (Colombia) - The narrator who explores Colombian collective memory
- Mariana Enríquez (Argentina) - Master of literary horror and the supernatural
- Paul Auster (United States) - The New York writer who plays with identity and chance
Each author brings not only their books but their particular worldview. Listening to them speak is like having access to the drafts of their minds, to the doubts that preceded the certainties that ended up in print.
Activities Beyond Book Signings
FILBo is much more than buying books. It is:
- Meet the Editors: Intimate talks about the creative process behind the books
- Creative Writing Workshops: For those who want to go from readers to writers
- Live Illustration: Artists creating while the audience watches images come to life
- Dramatized Readings: Actors giving voice to literary characters
- Children's Zone: A space where children discover that reading can be an adventure
- Academic Forums: Discussions on the future of the book in the digital age
Tips From an Experienced Visitor
After attending ten editions of FILBo, I've learned that:
- Arrive early on weekends - Queues form quickly and parking fills up
- Use public transport - The "Av. Américas" TransMilenio station is a 5-minute walk away. Avoid the stress of traffic and parking
- Bring a comfortable backpack - You'll end up carrying more books than you planned to buy
- Stay hydrated and eat light - There are food options inside Corferias, but prices are fair prices
- Plan but leave room for surprise - Check the official schedule, but allow yourself to be drawn in by an unknown stand
- Accessibility is good - Corferias has ramps, adapted restrooms, and wheelchairs available
Stands You Can't Miss
Each publishing house has its own personality at FILBo:
- Penguin Random House - The giant with the most anticipated international releases
- Planeta - Where you'll find the bestseller authors in Spanish
- Editorial Universidad Nacional - For critical thinking and Colombian academia
- Laguna Libros - The independent publisher that champions new and daring voices
- Fondo de Cultura Económica - The classic that never disappoints
- France Stand (Guest of Honor 2026) - Contemporary French literature and classics in new translations
Each stand has its particular energy. Some are bustling and full of new releases, others are quiet and specialized. The beauty is that you can go from Japanese literature to Colombian poetry in a matter of steps.
The Silent Miracle of FILBo
The most extraordinary thing about FILBo is not visible at first glance. It's that moment when someone flips through a book and their expression changes. It's the child who discovers that words can create worlds. It's the senior citizen who finds an author who speaks directly to their experience. It's the student who understands that literature is not a subject, but a conversation that has been happening for centuries.
FILBo 2026 will once again be the place where Bogotá proves it still believes in the transformative power of reading. Where for a few days, the most valuable thing is not what you can buy, but what you can discover.
Share this guide with other book lovers and plan your visit to FILBo 2026. Because some events change your schedule, but FILBo has the power to change how you see the world.
What it is and context
FILBo 2026 is not just an event, it's a true festival that comes alive in the heart of Bogotá. This year, the fair runs from April 18 to May 2, and promises to be a melting pot of literary cultures, where renowned authors and new talents gather to share their works. With activities ranging from talks and workshops to musical performances, FILBo becomes the epicenter of literature and creativity. Did you know that in 2023, the fair received over 500,000 visitors? Imagine the energy this edition will bring!
Café Wilborada
Located in the Chapinero area, this café is a paradise for coffee and literature lovers. Here you can enjoy a cup of single-origin coffee while browsing a book from its small but charming library. Insider Tip: Try their famous filtered coffee and don't forget to ask the barista for reading recommendations. Address: Calle 70 # 11-40. Price range: $10,000 - $20,000 COP.
La Casa de la Literatura
This cultural space, located in the historic center, is a place where literature comes to life. They offer multiple activities, from writing workshops to dramatized readings. Insider Tip: Be sure to check their event calendar, they often have special guests worth seeing. Address: Calle 11 # 4-14. Price range: Free or suggested donation.
Event Details (lineup, program, dates)
FILBo 2026 is not just an event, it's an explosion of literary creativity that will take place from April 18 to May 2 in the heart of Bogotá. Get ready to see your favorite authors, attend thought-provoking talks, and participate in imagination-sparking workshops. This year, the fair promises over 600 events, with the participation of renowned writers and a wide variety of activities for all tastes.
Plaza de Eventos
Located within Corferias, this space will host book presentations, panel discussions, and author meet-and-greets. Here you can listen to writers like Mario Vargas Llosa and Laura Restrepo. Insider Tip: Arrive early to get a good seat for the most popular talks, as they tend to fill up quickly. You won't want to miss the chance to ask questions!
Zona Infantil
A magical corner for the little ones, where literature comes to life through storytelling and interactive activities. Children can meet their favorite characters and participate in creative workshops. Insider Tip: Don't forget to bring your children to the signing area; many children's book authors will be there to meet their young readers.
Biblioteca Nacional de Colombia
Although not within the fairgrounds, this emblematic place is perfect to complement your visit. With an impressive collection and constant cultural activities, there's always something interesting happening. Insider Tip: Take advantage of the guided tours, which take you through Colombia's literary history. Address: Cl. 24 # 5-60, Bogotá. Free admission.
Casa Tomada
A cultural space and café where literature meets good coffee. In addition to enjoying an excellent espresso, readings and literary events are organized here. Insider Tip: Order their chocolate cake, it's the perfect accompaniment to a good book. Address: Cra. 30 # 15-32, Bogotá. Price range: $10,000 - $30,000 COP.
Prices and how to get tickets
How much do tickets cost?
Tickets for FILBo 2026 cost $10,000 COP for students and $20,000 COP for the general public. A bargain considering all you'll get to enjoy! Plus, if you have a student card, make sure to bring it to get that special discount.
Where to buy tickets?
You can purchase your tickets on the official FILBo website, but there are also options at physical points of sale. Here are some alternatives you can't miss:
Casa Tomada
This iconic café is a meeting point for book and literature lovers. Located at Calle 24 # 8-10, it offers a cozy atmosphere ideal for enjoying a good read before or after the fair. Insider Tip: Don't leave without trying their famous specialty coffee, it will give you the energy you need to explore all the stands!
El Bandido Bistro
Located at Calle 78 # 14-18, this restaurant is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal before diving into the literary world of FILBo. With a fresh menu and vegetarian options, it's a favorite among locals and visitors. Insider Tip: Ask about their dish of the day and pair it with one of their craft beers, it will be an explosive combination!
How to get there
If you're planning to attend FILBo 2026, there are no excuses to miss the experience. Here's how to get to this mega literary event that transforms the city.
Transmilenio
Bogotá's most famous public transport system will drop you off steps away from the fair. Take the route that leads you to the 'El Tiempo - Maloka' station. From there, you only have a short walk to the venue. Local Tip: If you're traveling during peak hours, prepare for an energetic ride, but don't forget your headphones!
Taxi or Ride-Sharing Apps
If you prefer a more comfortable ride, taking a taxi or using apps like Uber or Didi is a great option. Just make sure to indicate 'Corferias' as your destination. Local Tip: Sometimes, drivers don't know Corferias by name, so you can tell them it's the location of the Book Fair.
Bicycle
For the more adventurous, Bogotá has an extensive network of bike lanes. You can cycle from various points in the city. There are bicycle parking facilities at Corferias. Local Tip: Don't forget to bring your helmet and water! The route can be intense, but the feeling of arriving by bike is unparalleled.
Road from the North
If you're coming from the north of the city, you can take Avenida Carrera 30 and follow the signs to Corferias. Traffic can be tricky, so plan your departure in advance. Local Tip: Try leaving early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid traffic jams.
Lunch at Andrés Carne de Res
Before or after the fair, go to Andrés Carne de Res in Chía, a famous restaurant that combines good food and a festive atmosphere. The distance is a bit longer, but it's worth it. Local Tip: Be prepared for an experience that goes beyond food; the music and dancing are unmissable! Address: Calle 1 No. 12A - 45, Chía. Price range: $40,000 - $100,000.
Visit to Parque Simón Bolívar
If you want to enjoy some nature before or after the fair, Parque Simón Bolívar is just a few minutes away. It's the city's green lung and perfect for relaxing. Local Tip: Bring a book and enjoy some time in the shade of the trees. Address: Avenida 68 with Calle 53. Free admission.
Tips for attendees
- Plan your visit: FILBo 2026 spans several days, so be sure to check the schedule and choose the talks or activities that interest you most. Tickets are limited for some events, so don't miss out on your spot!
- Books and more books: Don't forget to bring your favorite tote bag, because you'll surely want to take more than one book home. Publishers often have special discounts during the fair, so get ready to fill your collection.
- Connect with authors: Some writers offer signing sessions. Arrive early and be prepared to queue, as it's a unique opportunity to chat with your favorite authors and get a personalized souvenir.
La Candelaria
This emblematic neighborhood is not only the cultural heart of Bogotá but is also full of literary cafes and second-hand bookstores. Insider Tip: Take a break at a cafe like "Casa de la Cultura" and enjoy a coffee while browsing an old book. The address is Carrera 7 # 13-20 and the price range varies between $5,000 and $15,000 COP.
Parque de los Periodistas
Located near the fair, this park is ideal for relaxing between activities. You can find local artists offering poetic readings or live music. Insider Tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a chill moment amidst the fair's whirlwind. It's a public space, so there's no cost.
