Spring Programme

Two Festivals. One Weekend.

Big DoG Children's Book Festival brings some of the nation's favourite children's authors and illustrators for a weekend of interactive events, workshops and family fun.

This year, Big DoG will be teaming up with Hooked, our festival for young people for a bumper weekend of events.

Hooked Festival for Young Readers and Writers offers a programme of professional development for young people. Through workshops and events with leading writers and practitioners, Hooked is the gateway for the next generation of authors and artists.

Big DoG Children's Book Festival

Hooked Festival For Young Readers and Writers

These events are suitable for all ages

These events are suitable for ages 2 to 6.

These events are suitable for ages 4+

These events are suitable for ages 5+

These events are suitable for ages 7 to 12. However parents and caregivers should use their own judgement on deciding whether an event is suitable for a particular child.

These events are suitable for ages 8+. However parents and caregivers should use their own judgement on deciding whether an event is suitable for a particular child.

These events are suitable for ages 16+

These events are suitable for adults only.

These events are tailored towards various access needs. Further access information can be found in our Accessibility Guide. If you have any questions about accessibility, please do not hesitate to contact the box office at 01988 403222

Exploring Accessibility

Bookings for school events are awarded on a first come first serve basis.

Big DoG 2023

Two Festivals. One Weekend.

Big DoG Children's Book Festival brings some of the nation's favourite children's authors and illustrators for a weekend of interactive events, workshops and family fun.

Hooked Festival for Young Readers and Writers offers a programme of professional development for young people. Through workshops and events with leading writers and practitioners, Hooked is the gateway for the next generation of authors and artists.

Special Guests at The Open Book

Thursday 30 March
Friday 31 March
Saturday 1 April
Sunday 2 April