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International Kolkata Book Fair 2027: 22 January – 3 February
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The International Kolkata Book Fair returns from 22 January to 3 February 2027, according to the organisers' announcement on 7 September 2026. It will be the fair's 50th year, the first Indian book fair to reach that mark. The central theme is the 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram'; Israel was under consideration as the theme country, but that had not received final government approval when this was written. The fair's home in recent years has been Boimela Prangan beside Central Park in Salt Lake, a few minutes from Karunamoyee and Central Park stations on the Green Line. Unlike trade fairs, this one is for readers: publishers from Bengal, the rest of India and abroad sell directly from stalls, the Little Magazine pavilion gathers the small presses, and authors speak daily. It draws more than two million visitors over its run, which makes it the largest book fair in the world by attendance. In 2025 it was open daily from noon to 8 pm. The 2026 fair ran on the same dates, 22 January to 3 February, with Argentina as the theme country. This page lists book fair sessions, launches and related literary events as they are announced.
Good to know
- Take the Green Line to Karunamoyee for the main gates; Central Park station serves the other side of the ground.
- Visit on a weekday afternoon. Weekends, Saraswati Puja week and the final days are the most crowded.
- Carry a tote bag and some cash; small presses and Little Magazine stalls do not always take cards.
- Pick up the stall map at the gate and mark the publishers you want first; the ground is large.
- Food stalls are part of the fair, so there is no need to eat before you come.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Kolkata Book Fair 2027?
From 22 January to 3 February 2027, as announced by the organisers on 7 September 2026.
Where is the Kolkata Book Fair held?
In recent years at Boimela Prangan next to Central Park, Salt Lake, close to Karunamoyee metro station. Check the organisers' notice for the 2027 venue confirmation.
What is the theme of the 2027 fair?
The 150th anniversary of 'Vande Mataram' is the central theme. A theme country had not been finalised at the time of writing.
Is entry to the Kolkata Book Fair free?
Entry has been free in recent years. Confirm on the organisers' site before you go.
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