The 37th Turin International Book Fair concluded on Monday with a record-breaking 231,000 visitors over five days.
The event, themed ‘Le parole tra noi leggere’ (The Words Between Us, Light), highlighted the power of words as a unifying force. Inspired by a verse from poet Eugenio Montale, the theme also references Lalla Romano’s Strega Award-winning novel.
Held at Lingotto Fiere, the Turin International Book Fair hosted 2,647 events across 70 halls and an additional 800 events in the Salone Off programme. Saturday drew the largest crowds, but Thursday showed the highest growth, with an 11% increase in attendance from 2024.
The fair also expanded its offerings with new technology and enhanced logistics. A revamped ticketing system reduced waiting times, and online ticket sales soared, accounting for 94.5% of purchases. The Romance Pop-Up, a new initiative at Uci Cinemas, attracted 3,600 fans for book signings with 52 authors. All 9,120 available slots sold out in just 30 minutes.
Next year’s guest country will be Greece, announced Annalena Benini, the fair’s editorial director. The 2026 edition will run from May 14 to 18, continuing to celebrate literature as a powerful connector in a diverse and growing community of readers.
