Book fairs are one of the most popular destinations for reading and travel enthusiasts. After all, if you decide to attend such an event, it will allow you to meet a lot of hobby friends and favorite writers, listen to lectures, find new books to read that have not yet appeared in bookstores, and not feel tired because of an exciting program and a bunch of positive emotions which you will receive in a day.
The first book fairs began to be held in Germany in the 15th century. In total, there are about 300 book exhibitions and fairs in the world today, of which about half are held in Europe. The leaders among the countries that welcome guests and host the largest book fairs from year to year are Germany and England.
The Frankfurt Book Fair
The world’s largest book fair is held in the German city of Frankfurt am Main. The history of Frankfurter Buchmesse is usually associated with the first printer Johannes Gutenberg, who opened a printing house near Frankfurt am Main in the 15th century. After the 17th century, the Frankfurt Book Fair lost its significance for various reasons. Its modern history began in 1949, and now hardly a year has passed when Frankfurter Buchmesse gathers thousands of exhibitors from more than 100 countries annually in mid-October.
The Frankfurt Book Fair is definitely the cherished dream of every book lover. Moreover, not only the best printed but also multimedia products are concentrated here. There is also a wonderful tradition here to designate one of the countries as a guest of honor each time, which means more opportunities to demonstrate the country’s book products and prepare a special project.
The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world’s most global gathering of book industry professionals such as agents, publishers, critics, writers, translators, illustrators, and more. During the first three days, the forum is open only for this circle of people who hold business meetings here and conclude important contracts. And only then the fair opens its doors to the general public, which can satisfy their hunger for reading with the help of books, magazines, newspapers, comics, and other readable publications.
The London Book Fair
The London Book Fair is the most important cultural event for English-language literature. It began functioning in 1971 when the British book publisher Lionel Leventhal organized an exhibition for only 22 publishers. Subsequently, he teamed up with business partner Clive Bingley, who helped to scale up the event. You can visit it in April, and it usually lasts three days, but more than 20 thousand professionals come here during this time. It is smaller in scale than the Frankfurt Trade Fair, but it still allows book lovers from all over the world to meet and offers excellent opportunities for negotiating, selling, and distributing printed works, audiobooks, and similar digital content. London Book Fair is a place where many book events, presentations, lectures, workshops, meetings between writers and readers, seminars, and other events are held.
Paris Book Fair (Salon du Livre)
Every book lover who has long dreamed of visiting France can combine business with pleasure and visit the largest book forum in France, Salon du Livre, held annually since 1981. This book exhibition brings together publishers, writers, artists, and publicists to showcase the latest books and magazines, new printing technologies, and innovations in publishing. Each year a special guest is selected – a country whose book production will receive special attention. The Paris Book Fair is intended for promoting reading among the general public. Therefore, it is pleasant that many young people come to one of the largest book forums in Europe every year.
Logos Hope Floating Book Fair
Those who like being on sea vessels should pay attention to this unusual fair. Its primary goal for 40 years has been to provide access to quality literature for readers in the Caribbean, West and North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. The variety of topics and prices will surprise even the most biased reader, and in addition, various cultural and educational programs are held on board.
So you’ve chosen your next destination? Do not hesitate because book fairs are a great way to socialize and get acquainted with the novelties of the modern publishing world.
