Simon’s Town is gearing up for another literary extravaganza with the upcoming Books on the Bay festival, taking place from 14 to 16 March 2025, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Building on the success of its previous editions, the 2025 festival promises an exciting and diverse line-up of more than 30 local and international authors, alongside panel discussions, poetry readings, and thought-provoking events. The festival will showcase some of South Africa’s most celebrated writers and literary figures, including winners of all major literary prizes.
One of the festival’s most anticipated highlights is the appearance of political cartoonists Zapiro and Gado, two iconic figures known for their fearless and often controversial work. Both artists have long challenged political power structures with their sharp commentary, and their session is expected to draw a lively crowd.
Other stand-out moments include the final instalment of John van de Ruit’s Spud series, with the beloved character now a twenty-eight-year-old reflecting on his spectacular non-achievements. In addition, attendees will enjoy a rare honorary appearance from renowned academic Professor Njabulo Ndebele, as well as a compelling discussion by Joline Young on the history of dispossession and slavery in Simon’s Town, which will be held at the local mosque.
The literary world will also be graced by two doyennes of South African literature, Charlotte Bauer and Michele Magwood, who will discuss aging in the context of Charlotte’s provocative new book. Award-winning novelist Yewande Omotoso will share her insights, while Gavin Evans and Anton Harber will tackle the challenging issue of white supremacy in their latest work.
Further highlights include Jonathan Jansen, the controversial education expert, Jeremy Vearey, the former counter-intelligence officer turned novelist, and Adam Welz, who will discuss the precariousness of life in the face of climate change. The festival will also feature acclaimed figures like Andrew Brown, the 2024 Sunday Times Fiction Award winner, and UK-based architectural historian John Stewart, who will present his new biography of Herbert Baker.
The festival’s immense success is also attributed to the enthusiastic involvement of Simon’s Town residents and businesses. The town’s restaurants and coffee shops will be ready to welcome visitors, and for the second year in a row, the local tuk tuk service will offer free transport between festival venues, making it even easier for attendees to explore the literary offerings.
Sponsored by Jonathan Ball Publishers, the University of the Western Cape, the Simon’s Town Civic Association, Simonstown.com, and Mooiplaas Wine Estate and Private Nature Reserve, Books on the Bay 2025 is set to be another unmissable event in the South African cultural calendar.
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Picture: Supplied
