URGENT UPDATE: The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has officially kicked off in Bali, featuring a powerful opening address from acclaimed Belgian historian and author David Van Reybrouck. His remarks resonate deeply within the literary community, stating, “If you are going to chop down a tree, you had better have something to say. Otherwise, let the tree speak.” This sentiment underscores the festival’s mission to foster open dialogue among authors, publishers, and readers.
The four-day festival, which began today, October 15, 2025, in the picturesque hilltop town of Ubud, showcases a rich blend of cultural, culinary, and literary experiences. Guests at the lavish opening gala enjoyed traditional satays alongside modern cuisine while being entertained by vibrant performances, including the traditional legong dance.
Festival founder Janet DeNeefe, a local restaurateur, emphasized the unique atmosphere of the festival, stating, “We’re in a beautiful place with really friendly, lovely people.” DeNeefe established the festival in 2004 in response to the tragic Bali bombings and has cultivated it into a platform for diverse voices.
Unlike other literary festivals, particularly in Australia, DeNeefe criticized the increasing homogenization and “fear” that stifles genuine expression. “In Australia now it’s becoming a little bit homogenised,” she noted. “I think it’s just harder for people to say what they think because… you can suddenly then be attacked on social media.”
The festival’s flexibility allows for bold themes that reflect pressing global issues. This year’s program includes discussions ranging from the conflict in Gaza to the representation of queerness in young adult fiction. While the Indonesian government sponsors the festival, its history includes navigating sensitive topics, such as the 1965 mass killings, which faced governmental pushback in the past.
Attendees can participate in over 80 main sessions over the four days, with tickets priced around $580 for international guests. Indonesian attendees enjoy reduced rates, making the festival accessible to a broader audience.
In addition to main sessions, the festival offers workshops, poetry slams, and unique experiences like bird watching and dance meditation. Notable speakers this year include Ingrid Rojas Contreras, who shares her journey of recovery from amnesia, and Omar El Akkad, whose works critically examine Western moral complacency regarding global crises.
Emerging Indonesian voices are also highlighted, such as debut author Sadie Noni, whose eco-fantasy novel, The Fires of Tanam Alkin, gained traction following its launch at last year’s festival. “The festival gives you a forum to talk about your writing,” Noni expressed, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Indonesian perspectives on the global stage.
As the festival unfolds, attendees are buzzing with excitement and ideas, eager to explore new literary horizons. The atmosphere is electric, underscoring the festival’s commitment to authentic conversation and creative expression amid a turbulent global landscape.
Stay tuned for live updates as this year’s Ubud Writers & Readers Festival continues to unfold, offering a rare opportunity to engage with some of the most pressing issues of our time through the lens of literature.
