Festival America 2024: A Transatlantic Literary Dialogue

Posted by Speakeasy News > Wednesday 25 September 2024 > In the News


From September 26 to 29, 2024, the city of Vincennes is set to host the 11th edition of Festival America, a must-attend event for North American literature enthusiasts. This year, the festival distinguishes itself by broadening its horizons to include European voices, creating a true transatlantic dialogue.

The festival's program promises to be rich and varied, featuring a hundred events. Visitors will have the opportunity to attend debates and meetings with renowned authors, as well as film screenings and concerts. Exhibitions will also enrich the experience, while offering a dedicated space for young readers with a youth festival. Nearly sixty participants, including authors, journalists, historians, and activists, will be present to discuss societal changes affecting both America and Europe.

Themes and Discussions

The topics addressed during the roundtables will be highly relevant. Participants will discuss the climate crisis, artificial intelligence, and class struggle, while taking into account the current political context, particularly the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November 2024. These discussions aim to shed light on contemporary issues through the lens of literature and the arts.

Interactive Experiences

The festival goes beyond conferences, offering privileged moments to interact with authors. Visitors can participate in literary breakfasts and aperitifs, where they'll have the chance to engage directly with their favorite writers. Translation jousts and foreign language writing workshops will further enrich this immersive experience. For families, activities such as readings of Irish tales and legends, as well as street art performances, will add a festive and interactive touch.

Transatlantic Bridge

The 2024 edition stands out for its commitment to building bridges between North America and Europe. Authors from nine European countries will participate in the exchanges, offering a broader perspective on current literary and societal issues. Among the prestigious guests are Colson Whitehead, double Pulitzer Prize winner, Richard Ford, Erri De Luca or James Ellroy who will bring their unique voices to the festival.

Engaging in Societal Debates

Festival America 2024 does not merely celebrate literature; it actively engages in societal debates. Discussions will cover feminism, U.S. history, and the environment, reflecting contemporary concerns that span our societies. By highlighting these crucial issues, the festival hopes to spark constructive dialogue among participants. Festival America 2024 promises to be an event rich in discoveries and exchanges.

For Students
On Thursday, September 26th, Berlioz High School will open its doors for special events dedicated to careers in the book industry, offering students a rare opportunity to dive into the literary world. These interactions will allow them to discover the various aspects of the creative process and commercialization through direct dialogue with experienced professionals.

Friday 27 September will be the day the Festival welcomes school groups to meet with one of 32 authors selected by the schools team.

For more informations, you can go on Festival America .

Hôtel de Ville de Vincennes, 53 bis rue de Fontenay, 94300 Vincennes
Prices:
1-day pass: €15
2-day pass: €20

Access to the festival events on Thursday and Friday afternoons, as well as on the weekend for those under 18, and to the book fair is free.