The halls of Centro de Convenciones Mariscal are home to the 2026 International Book Fair from 28 May to 7 June, 2026. Also known as FIL, this fair is turning the city into a meeting point for readers, writers, and publishers. More than 60 exhibitors and 120 stands occupy the space this year.
Fabrizio Zucchini, coordinator of American Spaces in Paraguay and member of the organising committee, defines the event as more than a simple and traditional book fair.
“The International Book Fair is for us a cultural event, a cultural celebration in reality, that goes beyond books,” he tells The Asunción Times. ,,While publishers, libraries, and bookstores are central, the fair becomes a wider cultural meeting point for Paraguay.”
A cultural celebration beyond books
The International Book Fair is a public cultural event where every year, publishers, bookstores, libraries, and authors gather to present and promote books. Visitors attend talks, explore new publications, and meet writers throughout the programme. The event creates a shared space for literary exchange between the public and the publishing world.
“It stops being only a book fair and becomes a large cultural event at a national level. A multidisciplinary event where you can find your favourite book, but also other things.”
The goal: a country of readers
The main objective of the event remains consistent each year. “The objective is always to make Paraguay become a country of readers.” He highlights that the event brings together the main publishing companies in Paraguay and international exhibitors under one space. He also emphasises the social purpose of the International Book Fair. “It is also a moment where families meet, where writers and readers meet.”
The Centro de Convenciones Mariscal has hosted it for 10 years. “We understand it as a place that is more central for everyone, making it accessible for visitors across Asunción. It is a sign that we are growing,” referring to how the venue feels increasingly smaller each year. The expansion reflects rising attendance, more exhibitors and a stronger cultural presence within the country.
Audiences, writers, and shared encounters
This year, the United States serves as guest country of honour, marking 250 years of independence. Fabrizio notes its long-term involvement: “The United States is the only country that has accompanied all editions of the fair since 2016.”
Zucchini talks about the emotional core of the event. “We like to see entire families walking through the fair and children and young people getting excited when they find what they are looking for.”
The halls become a space where discovery and curiosity drive the experience. He also acknowledges the effort behind the organisation. “It is a lot of sacrifice from the people behind it,” pointing to the long hours and planning required. Despite this, the fair remains free and open to the public.
Building a lasting tradition
After ten editions, the success continues to grow. “The greatest achievement is improving ourselves more and more each year.” Each edition brings more visitors, more exhibitors and more engagement from the public. He concludes with a clear vision for the future. “We want it to be a memorable space where people remember that they visited the fair.” The goal is for visitors to leave with books, memories and anticipation for the next edition.
The 2026 International Book Fair runs for eleven consecutive days with free admission for the public. It opens from 9:00 to 21:00, extending until 22:00 on Saturdays. For more information about this event you can follow Feria Internacional del Libro on Instagram.
Also read: From Green to Franzen: Five Great Books Set in Paraguay in English.
