Boektopia Festival returns to Kortrijk this weekend amid uncertainty over its future
The fifth edition of Boektopia opens on Saturday at Kortrijk Xpo, bringing together book lovers, publishers and authors from Belgium and abroad. Over nine days, until Sunday 2 November, the halls of Kortrijk will once again buzz with readings, signings and literary encounters. Last year, the festival drew nearly 54,000 visitors, a 13 per cent increase, confirming its role as Flanders’ leading celebration of books after the demise of the Antwerp Book Fair.
Beyond Kortrijk, Boektopia on Tour extends the spirit of the festival throughout November, with literary events in Leuven, Genk, Hasselt, Antwerp and Aalst, ensuring that readers across Flanders can share in the experience.
© BELGA VIDEO LINDE WALTERS
However, despite its growing popularity, Boektopia’s future remains uncertain. The contract between Boektopia and Kortrijk Xpo expires at the end of 2025, and discussions are ongoing about the festival’s long-term home and funding. Flemish minister of culture Caroline Gennez (Vooruit) told the Flemish Parliament’s Culture Committee that she is determined to “guarantee Boektopia’s continuation,” but that the issue is tied to negotiations over a new management agreement with Literatuur Vlaanderen (Flanders Literature). She aims to finalise the agreement before year’s end so that Boektopia can “communicate about future editions in conjunction with” it.
N-VA MP Griet Vanryckegem welcomed the minister’s commitment but expressed concern over the broader budgetary constraints affecting the cultural sector. Referring to cuts impacting institutions like the Royal Academy of Dutch Language and Literature (KANTL) and Ons Erfdeel, she advised the government to ensure that “reading and reading promotion will not emerge weakened.”
#FlandersNewsService | Boektopia book fair in Kortrijk © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE
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