Literary enthusiasts across the region are set for an exciting new cultural experience as the first-ever DissCover Book Festival prepares to launch at The Corn Hall. This brand-new three-day event, scheduled from May 1 to May 3, 2026, will bring together top authors, engaging activities, and a vibrant celebration of reading and writing. Curated entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers, the festival promises to deliver a weekend full of inspiration and discovery, connecting readers with writers while honoring the area's rich literary traditions.
A Weekend Packed with Literary Delights
The festival kicks off on Friday, May 1, with a special historical literary walk titled "Down to the Dark Waters." Running from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, this guided walk will be led by Basil Abbott and the Diss Museum Actors, offering participants a unique exploration of the town's historical connections. Throughout the day, visitors can browse a pre-loved book sale organized by Oxfam at The Corn Hall. The evening will feature a lively literary quiz called "Judging a Book by DissCover," running from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, complete with exciting literary prizes and a raffle.
Celebrating Women's Writing
Saturday, May 2, is dedicated to "The Female Voice," a day celebrating women's writing with warmth and emotional honesty. The lineup includes acclaimed authors Izzy Broom, Kate Sawyer, Lucy Vine, Jenni Keer, Kate Weston, and Daisy Buchanan. These writers will explore contemporary and historical themes such as love, friendship, and self-discovery, capturing the joys and challenges of modern life through their insightful discussions.
Focus on Nature and the Outdoors
Sunday, May 3, shifts the focus to the great outdoors with "Big Sky Writing," a celebration of East Anglian nature writers. Audiences will hear from notable authors including Matt Gaw, Simon Barnes, James Canton, Ian Collins, Tor Falcon, and Richard Mabey. Their talks will highlight how noticing and tending to the natural world—from birds and night skies to local fields—can deeply enrich everyday life, offering a fresh perspective on the environment.
Practical Details and Accessibility
Book signing sessions will run throughout the entire weekend, with all titles supplied by Diss Publishing. To ensure the event remains accessible to all, full-day wristbands are available for £35, allowing attendees to come and go as they please. Individual session tickets are priced at £15 for those who prefer to attend specific events. The organizers have expressed their gratitude to a host of local sponsors who made the festival possible, including:
- Diss Town Council
- Diss Town Guide
- Chapel Doors
- fatstickman
- Angel Cafe
- Fredricks
- Adkins Opticians
- T W Gaze
- Fair Green Fish Bar
This community-driven festival not only promotes literary appreciation but also supports local businesses and volunteers, creating a meaningful cultural event for residents and visitors alike. With its diverse schedule and engaging activities, the DissCover Book Festival is poised to become a highlight in the region's cultural calendar.
