Singapore to host major art book fair and indie bookshop day in 2026

Singapore is hosting two significant literary events in 2026 aimed at supporting its independent book trade and creative community.

The 14th edition of the Singapore Art Book Fair (SGABF) will take place from August 28 to 30 at T:>Works. Developed in collaboration with creative directors Atelier Hoko, this edition features a scaled-down format with 43 exhibitors, including independent publishers and artists from Singapore and across Asia. Highlights include 'Goldilocks', a collaborative book project where each exhibitor interprets a line from the classic story, and 'Your Book', an initiative where visitors create zines to be included in an exhibition.

Additionally, the inaugural Indie Bookshop Day (SGIBD) will be held from October 2 to 4, with the primary celebration on October 3. Organized by participating shops and the Singapore Book Publishers Association, with support from the National Arts Council, the event features 20 independent bookshops. Unlike a centralized fair, this decentralized event includes walking routes through Chinatown, Bras Basah, and Joo Chiat, featuring diverse programming such as book swaps, live sketching, and workshops.