The Words & Sound 2026 music and literature festival will hold its second edition at the Port of Asunción’s cultural centre on Saturday, 3 October 2026. Admission will be free, with the festival running from 13:00 to 22:00. Meanwhile, the book fair will open its doors at 10:00.
The festival will bring together writers, musicians, independent publishers and artists through book presentations, workshops, discussions, a record fair and live performances. Following its first edition in 2025, the event returns with a programme that connects literature, music and other forms of creative expression.
International guests take the stage
The day’s special guest will be Argentine writer Agustina Bazterrica, author of the novel “Cadáver Exquisito” (Tender Is the Flesh). The novel won the 2017 Clarín Novel Prize and has been translated into more than 30 languages. Bazterrica’s work has sold more than one million copies worldwide.
Another key figure at this year’s event will be Argentine writer Loyds, author of acclaimed novels such as “Merca” and “La mamá de Johnny y Pichón” (Johnny and Pichón’s Mother). Loyds will join Manuel Arias, a Paraguayan writer, and Cave Ogdon, a writer and cultural figure, for a discussion.
The international programme will also feature Argentine writer Esteban Castromán, who will lead a creative writing workshop for young people. The session will explore narrative techniques and ways of developing fictional worlds.
A space for Paraguayan literature
The venue will host a book fair open to the public throughout the event. This section will feature independent businesses such as Books, Casiopea Libros and Literato, alongside various national publishers. Visitors can explore diverse catalogues, discover new releases and enjoy discounts.
The event will also feature the launch of the Words & Sounds 2026 Anthology of Unpublished Short Stories. The anthology brings together ten stories selected following a nationwide call for submissions.
Furthermore, Paraguayan author María Pía Escobar, will present her new work, “Ida”. The book will mark the launch of the Casiopea publishing house’s catalogue. The programme will also include a workshop on book cover illustration and design led by Paraguayan artist Samuel Araya. The activity will explore the visual elements involved in creating a book’s identity.
Music, records and live performances
Alongside the book fair, the festival will give music lovers a space to explore music. Vinilo Cooltural, a Paraguayan project dedicated to vinyl records and music culture, will hold its record fair as part of the “Embárcate” cultural programme at the Port of Asunción.
Various artists and musicians will give talks and take part in discussions. Notable artists include Cosmo López, a Paraguayan DJ and music producer, who will lead the AUDIOLAB music production workshop. Meanwhile, Joséma Gonzales, a Paraguayan musician, will join Diego Marini for a discussion about Kuazar, focusing on the band’s history, independent identity and musical evolution. The Paraguayan band Los Ollies, known for their blend of indie, pop and rock, will provide live music and bring the event to a close.
Words & Sound 2026 will take participants on a journey from reading to listening, encouraging them to get involved and showcase their creativity. Visitors can discover writers, books and national publishers, explore records and new sounds, and enjoy live music. The programme will also offer free workshops focused on writing, illustration and book cover design, as well as music production, giving participants opportunities to explore different forms of creative expression.
For more information, follow the Words & Sound event on Instagram.
