Manchester Literature Festival (MLF) marks its 20th anniversary this year with a vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity and cultural dialogue. Ahead of the main Festival, which runs from 11–26 October 2025, MLF will unveil a newly commissioned poem by multi award-winning writer Andrew McMillan and a special photographic exhibition, From Page to Centre Stage - running run mid September until late December – at Manchester Central Library will spotlight iconic moments and writers from two decades of programming.
First headliners to be announced:
Mick Herron - a master of British spy fiction reveals his highly anticipated new thriller Clown Town.
Sayaka Murata – the award-winning Japanese author of Convenience Store Woman and Earthlings on her unique writing and new novel Vanishing World.
Elizabeth Day (pictured) - the bestselling author of Magpie, How to Fail and Friendaholic comes to the festival to discuss her new novel, One of Us.
Jung Chang – the international bestselling author explores Fly, Wild Swans - the long-awaited sequel to her iconic memoir Wild Swans.
Mary Portas – a passionate campaigner for creativity and the high street unveils her life in fashion and her candid new book, I Shop Therefore I Am: The 90’s, Harvey Nicks – and Me.
Patrick Grant - designer, Great British Sewing Bee judge, clothing manufacturer and sustainability champion shares the story behind his bold new book, LESS.
Since its inception, MLF has welcomed literary giants and cultural changemakers from across the globe. Past guests include Margaret Atwood, Seamus Heaney, Kazuo Ishiguro, Barbara Kingsolver, Arundhati Roy, Rebecca Solnit, Gloria Steinem, Zadie Smith, Colson Whitehead and Senator Bernie Sanders, reflecting the Festival’s commitment to bold ideas, diverse perspectives, and creative excellence.
The full programme will be announced on 12 August 2025.