Every year since 1930, Lisbon has hosted the Feira do Livro de Lisboa, the Lisbon Book Fair. In an age where people are turning to tablets, e-readers, and audio books to consume traditional print media, the fact that this fair is still going strong in 2022, is a testament to both people’s appreciation of a physical book, and the popularity of this 92-year-old tradition. But the Feira do Livro isn’t just any old book fair: it’s an experience. For many Lisbonites, it’s an annual event that they’ve participated in since they were children. So what can you expect when you visit the Feira do Livro de Lisboa?
1. Firstly, expect it to be bigger than a regular fair. There are about 200 different book stands! Both Portuguese and international publishing houses have a stand (or numerous ones depending on the size of the publisher): that’s a lot of books to look through and a lot of ground to cover. In recent years, the Feira do Livro has taken place in the large Parque Eduardo VII to ensure enough space for everyone, but the location has changed throughout its history. Previously, it had been held downtown, in one of the main squares or one of the well-known streets like Rua Augusta or Avenida da Liberdade (just off Parque Eduardo VII).
2. Expect crowds at times: depending on when you go, it can get a little busy. Personally, I love that there are people of all ages (young parents with baby strollers; teenagers; baby boomers; and plenty of children). The fair runs for a little over 2 weeks, so if you can be flexible on when you attend, plan for off-peak times.
3. Expect to find books you didn’t know you wanted or needed. I won’t lie: you need a lot of self-control to attend the Feira do Livro and not leave with at least one new book (or five). One important tip: take a reusable bag with you, as you won’t be given any bags when you buy your books.
4. Expect food: there are plenty of food trucks of all types of cuisine interspersed between the book stands, as well as seating, so you can enjoy your food more comfortably. (Outdoor toilets are also available.)
5. Expect deals: the Feira do Livro is a great opportunity to find books at discounted rates, everything from 10% to 50% off normal retail value. If you’ve been eyeing a specific book or want to stock up on Christmas and birthday gifts, you can usually get a better deal here.
6. Expect autographs and book talks: world-class authors will come for book signings on specific days and times, but you have to check the schedules with the different publishers, which they will publish online. Authors will also do book talks and Q&A sessions right in the middle of the fair, but naturally some of these will be in Portuguese.
7. And lastly, expect to want to come back the following year.
If, like me, you’re a bibliophile and want to enhance your next trip to Portugal with this epic book fair, it’ll certainly add another unique moment to your time in Portugal. But plan accordingly, as the book fair can take place anytime between April and September, depending on the year. My readers who are planning to visit Porto instead of Lisbon will be pleased to know that Porto also has its own Feira do Livro (do Porto). I look forward to seeing you at the 93rd Feira do Livro in 2023.
