Bondi is preparing for a weekend of literary inspiration as the Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend returns to Bondi Pavilion from 20–22 November 2026, bringing together some of Australia’s most engaging authors, journalists, thinkers and creative voices.
Presented by Waverley Council, the three-day festival celebrates the power of storytelling, conversation and ideas, with a diverse program exploring literature, contemporary culture, health, politics, creativity and the changing world around us.
Set against the iconic backdrop of Bondi Beach, the festival offers locals and visitors an opportunity to engage with leading Australian voices while experiencing one of Sydney’s most celebrated cultural venues.
A Celebration of Books, Culture and Ideas at Bondi Pavilion
Bondi has long been recognised for its beaches, cafés and vibrant lifestyle, but the suburb also has a thriving cultural and creative community.
Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend highlights this creative side of the Eastern Suburbs, transforming the historic Bondi Pavilion into a meeting place for authors, readers and curious minds.
Across three days, visitors can attend author conversations, panel discussions, workshops and performances covering everything from artificial intelligence and social media to personal resilience, parenting and Australian literature.
Whether you’re an avid reader, a regular festival-goer or simply someone who enjoys an interesting conversation, the program offers plenty to discover.
Festival Highlights: Leading Australian Voices
Anne Summers – Ideas Matter
Friday 20 November | 6.30pm
Acclaimed journalist, author and social commentator Anne Summers opens the festival with an address exploring the importance of ideas, freedom of expression and public debate.
Her appearance sets the tone for a weekend dedicated to thoughtful discussion and challenging perspectives.
Richard Glover – How to Ruin a Child
Saturday 21 November | 1pm
Popular author and broadcaster Richard Glover brings his trademark humour to the often-confusing world of parenting.
Exploring how parenting advice has changed across generations, Glover offers an entertaining perspective on the expectations and contradictions facing modern families.
Dr Norman Swan – The Brain Cliff
Saturday 21 November | 3.30pm
Well-known physician and health broadcaster Dr Norman Swan explores brain health, cognitive ageing and the science behind maintaining mental sharpness later in life.
The conversation promises valuable insights for anyone interested in longevity, health and wellbeing.
Li Cunxin – The Lucky Son
Saturday 21 November | 5.30pm
Internationally acclaimed dancer and author Li Cunxin shares the next chapter of his extraordinary life story.
Known worldwide for his bestselling memoir Mao’s Last Dancer, Li reflects on the experiences, challenges and achievements that have shaped his journey.
Eastern Suburbs Stories Take Centre Stage
Sophie Stern and Katie Hoskins – Sisterhood and Suspense in the Eastern Suburbs
Saturday 21 November | 12.30pm
Local literature takes centre stage when authors Sophie Stern and Katie Hoskins discuss their debut novels, both inspired by life in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
The conversation explores friendship, sisterhood, suspense and the familiar neighbourhoods that provide the backdrop to their storytelling.
For readers who enjoy discovering books set in their own community, this is one of the festival’s most locally relevant sessions.
Remo and Melanie Giuffré – Passionate Bondi
Saturday 21 November | 2.30pm
Bondi’s distinctive personality, history and cultural identity are explored in a conversation with Remo and Melanie Giuffré.
Through stories of the people and experiences that have shaped the suburb, this session celebrates the unique character of one of Australia’s most recognisable coastal communities.
Exploring Resilience, Technology and Creativity
The festival also tackles some of the major issues shaping modern life.
Resilience expert Dr Lucy Hone presents sessions exploring uncertainty, emotional wellbeing and the ability to navigate life’s challenges.
Digital strategist Ed Coper examines the culture of online outrage and the influence of social media in his session Angertainment.
Author James Bradley explores the growing relationship between artificial intelligence and artistic expression in AI and the Arts, raising questions about the future of human creativity.
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, Rachael Coopes presents Sunday Creative Flow, combining yoga, mindfulness and creative expression.
The weekend also includes Deadly Poets Society, celebrating First Nations poetry and storytelling.
Discover Bondi Beyond the Beach
Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend provides another reason to explore Bondi’s cultural attractions.
Visitors can combine a festival session with lunch at a local café, a visit to nearby shops or a walk along the beachfront.
The event also showcases Bondi Pavilion’s role as a cultural destination, bringing literature, performance and community engagement together in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs.
Event Details
Event: Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend 2026
Dates: Friday 20 – Sunday 22 November 2026
Venue: Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach NSW
Cost: Ticket prices vary by session and workshop.
Organiser: Waverley Council
Bookings: Individual sessions can be booked through the official event website.
Plan Your Visit to Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend
With a diverse program featuring established Australian voices, emerging authors and locally inspired conversations, Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend is set to be a highlight of the Eastern Suburbs cultural calendar this November.
Whether you attend a single author talk or spend the weekend exploring the program, the festival offers an opportunity to discover new perspectives and celebrate the power of ideas.
Explore the full festival program and book tickets through Bondi Pavilion.
