Where Stories Take Flight

Welcome to The White Owl Literature Festival & Book Fair, the region’s premier celebration of literature, culture, and creativity. Held annually in Chümoukedima, Nagaland, this vibrant festival is more than just a gathering—it's a movement to rekindle the joy of reading, storytelling, and literary exchange across generations.

A Festival of Stories, Culture, and Community

The White Owl Literature Festival & Book Fair has successfully hosted two editions since its debut in 2024, which launched in collaboration with Penguin Random House India and Cambridge University Press. The inaugural theme, “Echoes of Narratives,” celebrated Nagaland’s vibrant storytelling heritage, while the 2025 edition, themed “Inspire, Imagine, Inscribe,” expanded the festival’s reach with a dynamic blend of author sessions, creative workshops, cultural performances, and the region’s largest book fair.

Three unforgettable days of stories, ideas, and shared inspiration.

What to Expect

Where Books Come Alive

Book Fair

Step into Nagaland’s largest and most vibrant book marketplace. Discover everything from bestselling titles to hidden literary gems, meet local and national publishers, attend live book signings, and support a culture of reading that uplifts both emerging and established voices.

Listen, Learn, Be Moved

Renowned Speakers

Immerse yourself in thought-provoking talks and powerful discussions led by some of the most influential voices in literature, journalism, and public thought. These sessions are designed to spark fresh perspectives, challenge your thinking, and celebrate the diversity of narratives that shape our world today.

Create, Explore, Participate

Workshops & Seminars

Dive into practical, hands-on sessions curated for curious minds of all ages. Whether you're looking to refine your writing, unlock your creativity, or explore new storytelling mediums, our workshops offer guided experiences with facilitators who are passionate about empowering others through learning and shared knowledge.

Wonder Starts Young

Children’s Zone

A magical space dedicated to young readers and future storytellers, filled with engaging read-alouds, interactive workshops, and imaginative activities. This zone encourages children to play, explore, and fall in love with books while developing critical thinking, empathy, and creativity through storytelling.

Taste the Culture

Cultural Performances & Food Stalls

Experience the rhythm, flavor, and warmth of Nagaland’s rich cultural tapestry. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and spoken word performances while sampling a delicious variety of local and regional dishes served by community vendors throughout the festival grounds.

Run. Sing. Support

Charity Events

Join us in giving back through two heartfelt initiatives: the White Owl 5K Charity Run and the Charity Concert. These community-led events raise funds and awareness for individuals with special needs—combining fitness, music, and collective goodwill to make a real difference, one step and one note at a time.

Become a Festival Ally

Step into the heart of the festival with our Festival Ally Package

  • Delegate Kit

    Receive an exclusive festival bag with passes and essential goodies curated just for our allies.

  • Front-Row Seating

    Enjoy the best views with reserved front-row seats at all key sessions and performances.

  • Priority Access

    Skip the queues with priority parking and early entry to workshops, talks, and special events.

  • Early Book Signings

    Be first in line to meet authors and get your favorite books personally signed.

  • Ally Lounge Access

    Relax and recharge with round-the-clock tea, coffee, and snacks in our exclusive Festival Ally Lounge.

  • Early-Bird Invitations

    Get first dibs on limited-capacity workshops, masterclasses, and pre-festival announcements before the public.