Literary Fair (Kharkiv)Літературний ярмарок

A newly established annual multi-day book and literary festival in Kharkiv, held under the title "Літературний ярмарок". Organized with support from the Serhiy Zhadan Charitable Foundation, it features author readings, book presentations, lectures on local history and culture, poetry readings, and panel discussions. The first event (Aug 29–31, 2025) gathered prominent Ukrainian writers (e.g., Serhiy Zhadan, Andriy Kurkov) and focused on Kharkiv’s publishing heritage and resilience under wartime conditions 1 2. Events are conducted in air-raid shelters for safety, underscoring the context of cultural perseverance.

Named after the interwar literary magazine 'Literary Fair' (1928–30), this festival revives Kharkiv’s historical role as a publishing center. It underscores local identity and morale: by bringing literature and art underground (literally in shelters) during conflict, it asserts the city’s enduring cultural vitality. The festival reflects Kharkiv’s intellectual legacy and pride, as organizers deliberately connect modern writers with Kharkiv’s historical literary icons 1 2.