Gladfest returns for its third year, welcoming a host of internationally-renowned writers, creatives and thinkers to Hawarden

If you have a passion for all things books, writing, culture and ideas, then Gladfest is the ideal festival for you. Taking place in Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden, across the weekend of September 4th-6th, the event promises the visitor a range of fascinating talks and discussions from a host of internationally-renowned writers, creatives and thinkers.

Over 20 talks and workshops will be taking place across the three-day literary festival, which is now in its third year, as well as music, choirs, a craft fair and locally-sourced food courtesy of the Library’s Food For Thought bistro.

Held in the only Prime Ministerial Library in the UK, Gladfest is an intimate and friendly event with audiences of no more than 70 people. There’s no green room and no VIP passes.

Here you can rub shoulders with a range of talented and fascinating writers and speakers. This year’s festival highlights include talks by Michel Faber (The Crimson Petal and the White, The Book of Strange New Things), Patrick Gale (A Place Called Winter, Notes from an Exhibition) and Jessie Burton (The Miniaturist). There will also be a selection of in-depth discussions on everything from the purpose of historical fiction to the importance of protecting the British coastline.

If you’re a budding author or you just fancy getting more hands-on and making some progress with your own writing, workshops will be held by authors including Lesley McDowell and Sarah Perry. From learning how to review your own work to injecting some fear and loathing into your writing - any writer’s block will soon be cleared.

Gladfest will also be hosting a lively programme of activities for young people put on by the award-winning theatre company, InterAct Wales. This includes ‘So You Want to be an… Actor, Director and Scriptwriter’ masterclasses, as well as storytelling events and discussions on Shakespeare and Roald Dahl. w

Booking for all talks (£6) and workshops (£10) is essential. To book call 01244 532350 or visit www.gladfest.co.uk to find out more information