Wolverhampton Literature Festival returns at the end of this month with a whole host of inspiring speakers, performers, and events.

Taking place across the city’s arts and culture venues from Friday 31 January to Sunday 2 February, the Festival brings together literature, poetry, music, and dance.

As a pre-festival event, actor and author Jassa Ahluwalia will discuss his book ‘Both Not Half’ and will discuss his mixed-race identity with acclaimed writer, Sathnam Sanghera on Saturday 25 January. For over 25 years, Jassa described himself as ‘half Indian, half English’, navigating a world that questioned his name, language fluency, and cultural identity. His journey to redefine how we talk about mixed identity offers a call to action that is both personal and universal.

Wolverhampton’s own Rob Manuel brings his million-follower social media sensation ‘Fesshole’ to the Newhampton Arts Centre for some of the internet’s naughtiest, funniest, cringiest confessions on Thursday 30 January plus a chance for audience members to share their own confessions if they dare.

Renowned comedian and writer, Al Murray, will bring his passion for history to the festival weekend. Talking about his new book ‘Arnhem: Black Tuesday’, on Friday 31 January, Murray explores the legendary battle of Arnhem, shedding new light on one of history’s heroic failures with his trademark knowledge, wit, and enthusiasm. 

Saturday 1 February’s line-up includes Abi Daré who returns to discuss her powerful sequel to ‘The Girl with the Louding Voice’, continuing her exploration of resilience and empowerment. TV presenter and broadcaster, Ashley John-Baptiste, shares his moving story of growing up in the British care system. His journey of resilience and self-discovery will inspire audiences of all backgrounds.

Closing Saturday night, Jordan Stephens - actor, and author and one half of British hip hop duo Rizzle Kicks - will discuss fame, ADHD, and modern masculinity, offering a deeply personal perspective on mental health and identity.

This year, the festival will offer two free drop-in performances at the Mander Centre. On Saturday 1 February, celebrate the West Midlands’ lyricism with Neone the Wonder and enjoy a day of live music performed by four artists from across the region. On Sunday 2 February, Flexus Dance will present a pop-up performance of their commissioned piece, ‘Flora’.

Meanwhile, crime fiction enthusiasts can look forward to Mark Billingham discussing his latest book ‘The Wrong Hands’ alongside local favourite Mark Edwards on Sunday 2 February.

This year, Wolverhampton Literature Festival have also partnered with the Black British Book Festival, to bring an exciting line up of engaging events for young people including books ‘Your Hair and Me’ and ‘Never Show A T-Rex A Book’.

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “With literature, poetry, dance, music and more, the Wolverhampton Literature Festival 2025 promises a weekend of creativity, discovery and connection. Be part of the Wolverhampton Literature Festival and celebrate the vibrant arts and culture of Wolverhampton – there’s truly something for everyone and we can’t wait to welcome you.”

Get your tickets now at wolveslitfest.co.uk.