Literarischer Sommer / Literaire Zomer

For over 20 years, the German-Dutch Literature Festival has offered literature enthusiasts on both sides of the border the opportunity to get to know literature from their own and neighbouring language areas and to talk to authors at readings. Especially in the tri-border region of North Rhine-Westphalia, the Netherlands and Belgium, the festival makes a valuable contribution to cross-border dialogue.

During the 24th edition of the festival, a total of 55 events will take place in libraries and cultural institutions from 05.07. to 07.09.2023. Places that are rather unusual for literary events, such as museums or parks, will also be played. In addition to readings, the popular Literary Walks will also take place again, in which participants will follow in the footsteps of authors, works and publishing histories in Amsterdam, Düsseldorf and Cologne. In Krefeld, there will also be an Audio Fantasy Walk.

The programme looks at current novels from both countries, but also offers an insight into the latest poetry works. Particular emphasis will be placed on crossing linguistic borders. Dutch and Flemish authors read in Germany and German-speaking writers present their works in the Netherlands. The respective translators are also invited to report on their work and enrich the discussion with another perspective on the book world.

On the German side, the member cities Aachen, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Krefeld, Mönchengladbach and Neuss as well as Bedburg-Hau, Dormagen, Kleve, Korschenbroich, Leverkusen, Rommerskirchen, Straelen and Willich are participating in the festival. On the Dutch side, Amsterdam, Kerkrade, Vaals and Venlo are involved.