About the Festival

After 33 years, putting Uxbridge on the literary map in Canada is not a stretch for Blue Heron Books. The store is long accustomed to bringing first-class literary talent to Durham Region.

Former Durham resident, Lucy Maud Montgomery once quipped, “I am simply a book drunkard” — relatable words for readers and writers. The Book Drunkard Festival captures the wonderment of the written word and its ability to intoxicate, transport, and transform; it is meant for all ages and myriad tastes.

The 2019 festival – an unprecedented success – featured literary legends, an exceptional chef, art, theatre, and musical masters, and the 2020 virtual festival delivered the same top-notch literary talent in a new, virtual format.

In 2021 & 2022, the festival kicked it up a notch with a variety of in-person and virtual events, including the Half-Pints Kids events, award-winning authors, much-anticipated book launches, Giller nominees, food, chocolate, beer, and astronaut Chris Hadfield!

As we get ready to kick off a new year with exceptional talent, 2023’s line-up will set you up for a season of exceptional author experiences as well as a great new stack of TBR (to be read) on the nightstand!

Join in for one event or all.

2023 Acknowledgements

2023 ‘A TEAM’ has knocked it out of the park! Rebecca Sanger, Ashlyn Kusch, and Megan Pickering have

created a thing of beauty for your lasting enjoyment. My hat is off to you all.

Special thanks to the unwavering Rebecca Sanger who additionally took on the website and every challenge or obstacle in her path with her customary good humour. xo – Shelley Macbeth