A festival for photographers is happening in Singapore right now, and another one is also on the horizon! But this time, the festival is for the writers.
The annual Singapore Writers Festival (SWF) 2026 returns from 13 to 22 November 2026, featuring literary experiences for all you bookworms, mystery lovers, and anyone looking for things to do in November.
If you’re wondering what activities are worth exploring across the different festival venues, we’ve got you covered.
Hidden in Plain Sight
The theme of this year’s SWF is ‘Hidden in Plain Sight’. The festival invites readers, writers, and visitors to look beyond the surface and uncover stories they might otherwise miss. This is especially apparent with the crime-and-mystery-themed programmes at SWF 2026.
One highlight is The Making of a Serial Killer, a panel featuring authors of psychological thriller, mystery, and crime genres. Some of you might recognise one of them, Seo Mi-ae, a South Korean writer known for her award-winning mystery thrillers.
This panel, taking place on 14 November 2026 at Victoria Theatre, will explore the authors’ creative process in creating characters and crafting stories.
If you’d like something more interactive, try an interactive mystery activity on the SWF website – The Verdict is Yours. You will investigate The Case of the Vanishing Diamond, which leads to 10 different conclusions, each submitted by a young writer.
Vote for your favourite and stand a chance to win a 2-day, 1-night stay at The Fullerton Hotel.
Live Storytelling
Want to experience storytelling with lived experience? Islands of Memories: Stories from the Southern Sea will take you on a coastal walk on 14 November 2026 and 21 November 2026.
You will hear stories about the Orang Laut and Orang Pulau communities, enjoy a shared meal, and discover histories and stories along the way. This event is ticketed at S$80 and is SG Culture Pass eligible. Find out more and purchase your tickets here.
If you like the idea of gathering around a table for a meal while hearing stories, this one’s for you. The Salon with Jemimah Wei will let you hear from the Singaporean author as she explores topics such as daughterhood and family expectations.
This conversation, based on Jemimah’s debut novel, The Original Daughter, will be held on 19 November 2026 at Kotuwa at New Bahru. Canapes and drinks will be served. Tickets are S$60 and are available to book with SG Culture Pass here.
Festival Passes
If you want to explore a wide range of programmes at SWF 2026, consider purchasing a Festival Pass, which costs S$30 for adults and just S$15 for youths. This pass will give you access to more than 100 selected programmes. Check out what is included here, as some sessions require separate tickets.
Festival Passes can also be purchased using your SG Culture Pass credits, so if you have any left to spare, you know what to do! To explore all programmes at SWF 2026, including both free and ticketed events, visit SWF’s website.
Singapore Writers Festival 2026
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📍 Various locations
🕚 Various timings
🗓️ 13 to 22 November 2026
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