Paris Book Festival (formerly Salon du livre)
David Chelly, 21 January 2026
From 17 to 19 April 2026, the Paris Book Festival brings together publishers, authors, booksellers and readers at the Grand Palais for new releases, discussions and book signings. The event retains the DNA of the old Salon du livre while adopting a livelier, more open format, with themed stages, talks and a programme designed for the general public as well as professionals.
2026 dates and location
The 2026 edition runs from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 April 2026 at the Grand Palais in Paris. Last-minute information, access maps, tickets and guidelines are published on the official website and in the practical information section as the event approaches.
What you'll find there
The festival mixes major publishers and independent houses, general and children's literature, comics, essays, crime fiction, illustrated books, and hybrid formats. On site, the best approach is to alternate a spell of browsing the stands, a talk or a panel discussion, then a signing session, leaving some margin as queues move quickly depending on the author.
To make the most of your visit, the simplest approach is to identify two or three priority events in advance, then let yourself wander through the aisles. It's an event you often leave with an unexpected book rather than the one you had planned on.
History of the Salon du livre and evolution of the festival
The Salon du livre de Paris was created in 1981 at the initiative of the French publishers' association (Syndicat national de l'édition). The first edition was held under the glass roof of the Grand Palais, before the event evolved, changed venues over the years, and was rebranded as the Festival du livre de Paris in the early 2020s, with a more "festival"-oriented programme and a smoother experience for visitors.
The return to the Grand Palais strengthens the event's iconic feel, with a setting that naturally showcases publishing, illustration and major talks. The name change doesn't replace the history of the Salon, it extends it with a more modern identity and a more event-driven staging.
Tickets and access
2026 ticket sales open in March 2026. Entry conditions, prices, any free-entry categories and online booking are detailed once sales open, with options that vary depending on the day and expected attendance.
For access, the most convenient stations are around Champs-Élysées and Franklin D. Roosevelt, allowing you to arrive quickly without relying on a single entrance. During busy periods, arriving early remains the best way to avoid queues and enjoy the signings.
Practical tips for a successful visit
A light, sturdy bag saves you from ending the day with an uncomfortable pile of books. A simple solution is to bring a reinforced tote bag and a short list of things to look out for: two authors to see, a publisher to visit, a theme to explore. On site, a photo of the schedule or a screenshot of the programme on your phone is enough to keep track without losing focus.
If getting a signature is your goal, the smart move is to head there as soon as you arrive, even if the session is scheduled for later. You'll save time, get a feel for how the stand works, and avoid nasty surprises once the queue forms.