After a four-year hiatus due to COVID-19, a new board has stepped up to revive the Fog Lit Festival. This literary festival offers free events such as book launches, readings, and workshops from many New Brunswick authors. Readers and writers of all ages are welcome to come to Saint John and celebrate literature.
And the best part is that all the events are free to attend!
Events
Thursday, September 26
7pm: The festival kicks off with Brandon Hicks launching his newest comic, “On the Border”. This New Brunswick writer and illustrator has had his works featured in several newspapers. Join him at the Imperial Theatre for a presentation, book signing, and reception.
Friday, September 27
7pm: In partnership with UNB Saint John’s Lorenzo Society, Douglas Walbourne-Gough reads from his poetry collection “Crow Gulch” and his upcoming “Island”. Visit the Saint John Arts Centre to hear his discussion with Dr. Rachel Bryant, a UNB Saint John professor.
Saturday, September 28
11am: Riel Nason, Canadian author of several picture books and acclaimed novels, offers a craft workshop for kids at the Saint John Free Public Library. This event also includes a reading of “The Little Ghost who was a Quilt”.
1pm: New writers can attend the workshop “How Stories Grow and Evolve” at the Imperial Theatre. Sue Nelson Buckley, New Brunswick author of “The Trouble with Jake”, also offers a reading and Q&A. Her workshop includes topics like: turning an original idea into a complete novel, adding changes to the plot and characters, and tips for a relevant story and setting.
7pm: This last event, taking place in the Imperial Theatre, includes Saint John’s own Michelle Winters bringing Port City her new novel “Hair for Men”. She’s the author of “I Am a Truck”, as well as an artist and translator. Julia Wright will join her in conversation.
The Goal of Rebuilding Fog Lit Festival
The original Fog Lit Festival ran from 2013 to 2019 before a new board took over in 2023. For Dr. Gemma Marr, co-chair of the new board, the highlight of the festival is bringing literature lovers together to interact with writers about their craft. “Our hope is that Fog Lit creates a space for building connections between audience members and authors, and for creating a strong literary community in the city.”
When asked about what UNB Saint John students can gain from this experience, Dr. Marr states: “I think UNBSJ students can certainly benefit from taking part in this process, particularly those interested in writing and/or those who love to read. Fog Lit can be a place to make friends and build connections, to get inspiration, and to take a little break from studying.”
You can learn more about this festival here.
