Saskatchewan’s biggest literary festival, the 26th annual Festival of Words is set to take over Moose Jaw starting on Thursday.  

Sarah Simison, the Festival of Words Managing Artistic Director says the event is jammed packed with activities to do.  

“We have close to 40 events that take place over four days and it includes programs for kids, we have writing workshops, we have a concert and a film, and a whole bunch of reading sessions with authors, panel discussions, we have a trivia night and a spoken word showcase,” says Simison. “There is something for everyone for sure.” 

The event will run from Thursday-Sunday, in the Mae Wilson Theatre, the Moose Jaw Art Gallery and Museum Theatre, and in Crescent Park.

The Festival of Words has been held virtually over the last two years due to COVID-19, but this year the event will make its return to in-person events.  

“It’s really exciting, I really miss that part of the job, and just talking to all the people, that’s the most exciting part. This is what my whole year builds up to, so the staff is really excited and all of our attendees that have come for years and years are really excited to be coming back.” 

Over 20 authors and poets from Saskatchewan and across Canada will embark on Moose Jaw this weekend to share their stories with the audience.  

“We have about 25 per cent of the lineup is from Saskatchewan and the rest is from across Canada. We do have Emma Donoghue; she is most famous for writing the book Room which was made into a film.” 

Simison did want to mention that there are various ticket options for those people wanting to attend the festival.  

“If people want to just come to one event or one workshop you can participate in the festival event by event as you want to. We also have a Flex Pass, which is kind of a pay-as-you-go, it costs $100 and you get $125 worth of punches. There’s the full pass for $200, or if you’re a student you can get it for $55.” 

Those interested in the event can find all the information on the authors, workshops, tickets, and more on the Festival of Words website.