Vancouver International Writers Festival Society

The Vancouver International Writers Festival Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literary arts and fostering a vibrant community of readers and writers. It is registered under the business number 122605678RR0001.

Overview

The Society organizes the Vancouver Writers Fest, a prominent annual literary festival held on Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia. The festival, which takes place each October, draws more than 20,000 attendees and features over 100 events including readings, interviews, panel discussions, and workshops. Writers from Canada and around the world participate, sharing their work and engaging with audiences on a range of literary themes.

History and Recognition

The organization was originally founded in 1988, with Alma Lee as its founding Artistic Director. Since then, it has grown to become one of Canada’s premier literary festivals. In 2010, the Vancouver Writers Fest was honored as the "Best Large Literary Festival in Canada" by the Canadian Tourism Commission. The Society adopted its current name in 2012, reflecting its international scope and community mandate.

Programming

The Society’s programming extends beyond the October festival. It runs year-round events such as:

• Incite Reading Series: A free springtime program held in collaboration with the Vancouver Public Library, featuring biweekly author conversations from January to June.
• Youth Education Programming (YEP): Designed to connect students with celebrated authors through school events, in-class workshops, and a youth writing contest.
• My Roots Workshop: An annual two-day writing workshop tailored for new immigrants, supporting them in exploring and sharing their stories through guided mentorship.
• Festival Events: Curated by an Artistic Director alongside guest and spoken word curators to present a diverse and dynamic array of literary experiences.

Venue and Community Impact

The Vancouver Writers Fest is primarily held at various venues on Granville Island, including Performance Works, Granville Island Stage, Waterfront Theatre, and the Improv Centre, among others. The festival also utilizes off-site venues like St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church and the Vancouver Playhouse. The location and venues contribute significantly to the festival’s distinctive atmosphere and accessibility.

Notable Participants

Over its history, the Society’s festival has hosted many distinguished writers such as Margaret Atwood, Alice Munro, Michael Ondaatje, J.K. Rowling, Salman Rushdie, and many others, underscoring its reputation as a major literary event in North America.

The Vancouver International Writers Festival Society continues to serve as a vital cultural institution in Vancouver, enriching the literary landscape and supporting writers and readers through its inclusive and engaging programming.

Business Registration Number: 122605678RR0001