Zurich/Events/Literature

Literature Events in Zurich

Book readings, literary festivals, author signings, and poetry in Zurich.

Lesungen, Literaturfestivals, Signierstunden und Poesie in Zurich.

65 upcoming literature events

«Literarischer Club Zürich» – Roland Buti

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 at 19:30

Cabaret Voltaire

An intimate literary evening at Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich as Roland Buti headlines the Literarischer Club Zürich, delivering a focused reading and author discussion in the venue’s historic, avant-garde atmosphere.

FINTA-Lesebühne Kollektiv Glitzern*

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 at 19:30

Das Gleis

Join FINTA-Lesebühne, a reading night by Kollektiv Glitzern* at Das Gleis in Zurich. A showcase of literary voices and thoughtful exchange, celebrating feminist writing in a cozy, intimate venue.

Buch Präsentation

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 at 18:00

Join a German-language book presentation in Zurich, featuring an author unveiling a new title with a short reading and Q&A. Set in a cultural venue, the evening promises an intimate, intellectual atmosphere for literature lovers and curious readers.

Caroline Arni: Wir, nicht wir Buchtaufe

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 at 20:00

German-language book launch for Caroline Arni's Wir, nicht wir. An intimate literary evening in Zurich featuring a reading and brief remarks from the author, presented by Kultur Zürich. A refined, contemplative event for literature lovers.

Jane Mumford «Leben!»

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 at 20:00

Jane Mumford presents a literary reading of 'Leben!' in Zurich, exploring life through prose and reflection. An intimate evening of language and storytelling that invites audiences to ponder what it means to live.

Dina Casparis - Die dunkle Seite der Schokolade

Thu, 9 Apr 2026 at 20:30

Orell Füssli Kramhof

Dina Casparis presents her crime-fiction take on the dark side of beauty, fashion, and chocolate industries in a book-launch at Orell Füssli. Expect witty, ironical critique and insights into contemporary consumer culture in a bookstore setting in Zurich.

«Colliding hopes» - Signierstunde mit Carolin Wahl

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 at 14:00

Orell Füssli Kramhof

Autograph session with bestselling author Carolin Wahl at Orell Füssli in Zurich. In Band 2 of the Driven Dreams series, she blends racing with romance. Free admission. Meet the author, hear about the latest installment, and get your book signed at the Kramhof bookshop.

Central-Slam

Thu, 9 Apr 2026 at 20:00

Central Uster

Central-Slam brings a lively poetry slam to Central Uster. Expect sharp, energetic spoken-word performances, crowd interaction, and innovative verse in the intimate setting of Central Uster, making poetry feel immediate and personal.

Friedas Fall

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 at 20:00

Kirchgemeindehaus Rosenmatt

Friedas Fall at Kirchgemeindehaus Rosenmatt in Wädenswil, presented by Michèle Minelli, blends intimate literary prose with lyrical storytelling and a warmly lit, bookish ambiance in a cozy evening.

Sofalesung: Eric Ehrhardt – Im Klauhof

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 at 17:00

Ort und Anmeldung unter www.sofalesungen.ch

Join a salon-style literary reading with Eric Ehrhardt as part of Sofalesungen, held at Im Klauhof in Zürich. Organized by Literaturhaus Zürich and Sofalesung.ch, this intimate evening blends prose and performance in a cozy, conversational setting.

Kent Nagano, Inge Kloepfer – Erwarten Sie Wunder!

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 at 17:30

Literaturhaus Zürich

Conductor Kent Nagano and author Inge Kloepfer appear at Literaturhaus Zürich for 'Erwarten Sie Wunder!', a cultured conversation exploring music, literature and contemporary cultural life.

TARDE DE CUENTOS Y ENCUENTROS

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 at 14:30

GZ Höngg

An engaging afternoon of stories and conversations in Spanish at GZ Höngg in Zurich. Readers and language lovers share tales, discuss literature, and connect in a welcoming, casual setting.

Sofalesung: Eric Ehrhardt – Im Klauhof

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 at 15:00

Literaturhaus Zürich

Sofalesung with author Eric Ehrhardt presenting his book "Im Klauhof" at Literaturhaus Zürich on 12 April 2026 at 17:00 — an intimate German-language reading event.

Zeit der Mutigen

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 at 19:30

CoalMine

German-language reading by Dimitré Dinev at CoalMine in Winterthur. A contemplative literary evening exploring courage, memory, and identity through the author's acclaimed prose. An intimate venue with a focus on storytelling and discussion.

Grüne Städte

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 at 18:30

Duplikat Buch&Papier

Claudia Acklin presents a literary evening at Duplikat Buch&Papier in Zürich, reading from works that explore green cities and urban sustainability. The intimate bookstore setting invites reflection on how cities can balance nature, culture, and daily life.

Daniel Schwartz – Unterwegs zu den Gletschern der Welt

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 at 18:00

Villa Grisebach

Daniel Schwartz takes the stage at Villa Grisebach for 'Unterwegs zu den Gletschern der Welt,' a travel-inspired literature reading hosted by Literaturhaus Zürich. Through vivid prose and atmospheric storytelling, he guides audiences to remote ice landscapes and reflects on culture and environment. An immersive evening of memoir and nature writing.

Bühnenmenschen und ihre Lieblingsbücher: Viktor Giacobbo

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 at 18:00

Casinotheater Winterthur

An intimate literature evening at Casinotheater Winterthur as stage personalities discuss their favorite books, featuring Viktor Giacobbo in conversation with Literaturhaus Zürich. A blend of theater and literature that sparks insight and wit in Winterthur.

trans 49 LEFT – call for contributions

Fri, 10 Apr 2026

ETH Zurich

Open submission window for the 49th issue of trans Magazin at ETH Zurich. Writers are invited to contribute to the next edition via the provided form; deadline is April 10, 2026, with participation open to students and professionals.

Book Launch: Mountains of Gold

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 at 18:00

ETH Zurich

Author Ludo Groen discusses turning a dissertation into a book at ETH Zurich, in conversation with Thomas Skelton-Robinson and Jennifer Bartmess of gta Verlag. The talk covers publishing opportunities, disciplinary challenges, and practical steps for scholarly work to reach readers.

26. April 1986 – 40 Jahre Reaktorkatastrophe

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 16:00

Karl der Grosse und Kulturhaus Helferei

Ein Abend mit Lesung und Gespräch über Tschernobyl im Licht von Literatur und Kunst. Iryna Herasimovich und Philine Bickhardt lesen und diskutieren, Moderation Sofiya Schweizer; der Abend erinnert an 40 Jahre Reaktorkatastrophe. Ort: Kulturhaus Helferei, Zürich.

Michael Nast: Generation Dating Burnout Lesetour in Zürich

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 18:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

Michael Nast brings his Generation Dating Burnout Lesetour to Zürich with a live reading at Kaufleuten Kultur. He probes how freedom in modern love leads to endless dates and growing exhaustion, pairing sharp wit with social critique. A timely evening for fans of contemporary literature and relationship talk.

Michael Nast • Literatur

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 16:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

German author Michael Nast reads from his tour book "Generation Dating Burnout" at Kaufleuten on Apr 26 — a contemporary literature reading exploring modern dating and relationships.

MovingTowardsZero #2: Was bringt das überhaupt?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 at 18:00

Tanzhaus Zürich

Join Zamzam Ibrahim and Farah Ahme for the second edition of MovingTowardsZero, a literature-focused discussion at Tanzhaus Zürich. The conversation, prompted by the question Was bringt das überhaupt?, explores contemporary language, ideas, and readings that challenge conventional approaches. Expect a thoughtful, intimate evening of dialogue in a venue known for its artistic edge.

Svetlana Alexievich: Tschernobyl

Thu, 7 May 2026 at 18:30

Lavatersaal

Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich discusses her groundbreaking work in a live conversation at Lavatersaal, Zürich, with translators Iryna Herasimovich and hosts Sylvia Sasse and Philine Bickhardt. A rare, insightful German-language event unpacking Tschernobyl and her powerful narrative approach.

Dr. Suzann Kirschner-Brouns – Literatur

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 at 20:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

German-language literary talk at Kaufleuten with Dr. Suzann Kirschner-Brouns. The evening explores why women sleep worse and practical strategies to improve sleep, weaving science with lived experience in a stylish urban setting. A thoughtful, accessible discussion for adults.

Schreibatelier und Lesung

Sat, 2 May 2026 at 11:00

Helmhaus Zürich

Schreibatelier und Lesung at Helmhaus Zürich: a German-language writing workshop and reading connected to the 'Only the Lonely' exhibition, inviting participants to write and share texts in a museum setting.

Buchvernissage

Tue, 5 May 2026 at 19:00

Grossmünster Zürich

German-language book launch (Buchvernissage) for Viviane Egli at the historic Grossmünster in Zürich. An intimate literary evening with readings, an author talk, and a signing session in a sacred, architectural setting.

Grosse Bücher, Große Autoren: Lese- und Gesprächsreihe

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 at 19:30

Aula Schulhaus Hirschengraben

In Zürich's Aula Schulhaus Hirschengraben, Dr. Pia Reinacher hosts a reading and discussion in the 'Grosse Bücher - Große Autoren' series with renowned author Adolf Muschg. On 28 April 2026 at 7:30 PM, discover celebrated books and their creators in an intimate literary evening.

Wehe du gibst auf - Tour 2026

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 at 19:30

Hotel Spirgarten (Neues Theater Spirgarten)

German-language author Clara Lösel presents a live reading at Hotel Spirgarten in Zürich, part of the Wehe du gibst auf Tour 2026. Expect intimate prose, evocative storytelling, and a cozy, atmospheric venue for book lovers.

Menschenrechte:Belarus im Fokus

Sat, 9 May 2026 at 11:00

Strauhof

A panel on human rights in Belarus at Strauhof, Zürich, featuring Ina Rumiantseva (Taskforce Belarus e.V.) and Prof. Irina Gruschewaja (Den Kindern von Tschernobyl e.V.), moderated by Philine Bickhardt. An insightful, timely discussion on advocacy, state power, and international solidarity.

Johanna Roth • Literatur

Mon, 4 May 2026 at 20:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

German-language literary event with Johanna Roth, exploring 250 years of USA myths, conflicts and the American promise. A thoughtful evening of reading, discussion and cultural insight at Kaufleuten in Zurich.

Buchvernissage: Andreas Seibert – Über Sehen Über Leben

Tue, 5 May 2026 at 19:30

Literaturhaus Zürich

Attend the Buchvernissage for Andreas Seibert's Über Sehen Über Leben at Literaturhaus Zürich. An intimate literary evening with readings by the author, pairing thoughtful reflections on seeing and existence with the venue's refined, historic atmosphere in Zurich.

SIDEKICK - mit Sebastian "El Hotzo" Hotz

Mon, 11 May 2026 at 19:00

Plaza Klub und Bar

Sidekick with Sebastian 'El Hotzo' Hotz brings a live show blending humor with a literary reading (Lesung) at Plaza Klub in Zurich. Expect sharp jokes and witty storytelling in a cozy indoor setting.

Buchvernissage: Dieter Bachmann, «Blues for Max»

Mon, 4 May 2026 at 18:00

ETH Zurich

Book launch and reading by Dieter Bachmann at ETH Zurich presenting 'Blues for Max', a literary exploration of memory, Max Frisch and a contested urban site in Zürich.

Aristophanes: Lysistrata

Thu, 7 May 2026 at 19:30

Villa Grunholzer

A refined reading of Aristophanes' Lysistrata performed by Manuela Biedermann and Elena Mpintsis at Villa Grunholzer in Uster. This intimate literary evening blends ancient comedy with sharp gender-politics, brought to life by two acclaimed performers in a historic Swiss venue.

Katrin Eigendorf – Erzählen, was ist. Berichten am Limit in einer Zeit der Kriege

Mon, 18 May 2026 at 19:00

Literaturhaus Zürich

Journalist and author Katrin Eigendorf gives a reading and talk at Literaturhaus Zürich on reporting under the strain of war, exploring the limits and ethics of contemporary war coverage.

Buchvernissage "Das Füchslein aus Glas"

Sun, 10 May 2026 at 17:00

Museum Schaffen

Join a German-language book launch on May 10, 2026 at 17:00 at Museum Schaffen in Winterthur for Das Füchslein aus Glas by Matthias Müller. The evening features a reading from the new work followed by a discussion, in a museum setting that highlights contemporary literature.

Lukas Bärfuss - «Königin der Nacht»

Tue, 26 May 2026 at 20:00

Kaufleuten, Pelikanpl. 18, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland

Swiss author Lukas Bärfuss reads from Königin der Nacht at Pelikanplatz in Zürich, offering a thought-provoking German-language literary evening that probes personal and societal responsibility in a small Swiss town.

Weil ich Ruth bin

Tue, 5 May 2026 at 19:30

CoalMine

Author Julia Weber reads from Weil ich Ruth bin at CoalMine in Winterthur. An intimate, language-rich literary evening in German with a brief Q&A, exploring identity and voice in contemporary prose.

Plaza Poetry Slam

Thu, 21 May 2026 at 19:00

Plaza Klub und Bar

An evening of live spoken-word poetry at Plaza Klub in Zurich. Local poets perform original pieces in a competitive slam, on an intimate club stage with a buzzing crowd, witty hosts, and a celebration of language, rhythm, and fearless performance.

Atomare Schweiz– eine Spurensuche

Thu, 21 May 2026 at 12:15

Strauhof

Historian Monika Gisler traces the beginnings of the atomic age and Switzerland’s energy policy, in a moderated literature talk at Strauhof. An insightful, interdisciplinary discussion blending history, policy, and public science in central Zurich.

Verleihung Max Frisch-Preis der Stadt Zürich 2026

Sun, 7 Jun 2026 at 11:00

ETH Zurich

Ceremony awarding the Max Frisch Prize of the City of Zurich on 7 June 2026 at ETH Zurich, celebrating contemporary writing with speeches, honoree presentations and literary recognition.

Lesung – Heilwissen, so alt wie die Menschheit

Sun, 17 May 2026 at 11:00

Nordamerika Native Museum (NONAM)

Author reading 'Heilwissen, so alt wie die Menschheit' at Nordamerika Native Museum NONAM exploring ancient healing knowledge and Indigenous medical traditions, with insights into ice-age medicine and cultural history.

Erzählungen für Erwachsene: Schwänke, Sagen, Mythen

Sun, 10 May 2026 at 16:00

Villa Grunholzer

An intimate storytelling evening in Villa Grunholzer, Uster, where adults are invited to hear tales, sagas, myths, and legends read aloud. A literary event offering a warm, focused examination of classic storytelling in a cozy venue.

Casino-Slam

Fri, 22 May 2026 at 18:00

Casinotheater Winterthur

Casino-Slam at Casinotheater Winterthur: a Swiss-dialect and German spoken-word poetry slam where performers compete for the audience's vote in a lively night of verse and emotion; tickets CHF 30.

Max Frisch Prize 2026: Evening with Köhlmeier & Keskinkılıç

Mon, 8 Jun 2026 at 19:30

ETH Zurich

At ETH Zurich, the Max Frisch Prize 2026 presents laureates Michael Köhlmeier and Ozan Zakariya Keskinkılıç, spotlighting democracy and identity in contemporary literature. The evening features the prize ceremony and a discussion with the authors on the state of democratic culture.

Lesung mit Christine Brand

Wed, 27 May 2026 at 19:30

Alte Schule / Aula

Join Christine Brand for a live reading at the Alte Schule Aula in Horgen. An intimate literary evening featuring selections from Brand's crime fiction, with author insights in a cozy, traditional venue.

Werkstattgespräch mit den Max-Frisch-Preisträgern 2026

Sat, 6 Jun 2026 at 14:00

ETH Zurich

A workshop-style conversation with 2026 Max Frisch Prize winners Michael Köhlmeier and Ozan Zakariya Keskinkılıç about their recent novels, writing practice, and public engagement, aimed at students and literary enthusiasts.

Literatur und Musik – Eva Menasse liest Eva Menasse

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 at 09:15

Literaturhaus Zürich

Eva Menasse presents a reading of her work with musical accompaniment at Literaturhaus Zürich on 14 June 2026 at 11:15 — a literary morning event for fans of contemporary German-language prose.

Geschichtenfenster – lauschen und entdecken

Sat, 6 Jun 2026 at 14:00

Landesmuseum Zürich

At Landesmuseum Zürich, Geschichtenfenster invites audiences to listen and discover through intimate readings in a museum setting. A family-friendly literary afternoon showcasing German storytelling, with engaging tales and opportunities for reflection.

Alice Schwarzer: Buchpräsentation

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 at 20:00

Literaturhaus Zürich

An intimate book presentation and author conversation with Alice Schwarzer at Literaturhaus Zürich. The evening features a presentation of her latest work, followed by a Q&A in a refined, intimate literary setting in Zurich.

Die echtere Wirklichkeit

Tue, 2 Jun 2026 at 19:30

CoalMine

Author Raphaela Edelbauer reads from her work Die echtere Wirklichkeit at CoalMine in Winterthur, inviting reflection on reality and fiction. The intimate literary evening features excerpts and a brief discussion in a conversation-friendly setting.

Out Of Office

Fri, 29 May 2026 at 20:00

Millers

Swiss author and poet Gregor Stäheli headlines a live reading of Out Of Office at Millers in Zurich. An intimate literary evening blending prose and poetry, exploring work-life themes against a cozy venue setting.

Story window – listen and discover

Wed, 8 Jul 2026 at 15:00

Landesmuseum Zürich

Story window invites you to listen and discover stories at Landesmuseum Zürich. This literature session invites audiences to enjoy intimate readings in a museum setting, blending culture, storytelling, and discovery for adults and families.

Fallen Sie nicht, fliegen Sie lieber

Thu, 4 Jun 2026 at 19:30

Villa Grunholzer

German-language literary reading by Ruth Schweikert on 4 June 2026 at 19:30, at Villa Grunholzer in Uster. The Swiss author reads from her works in an intimate indoor setting, followed by a short Q&A, offering insight into contemporary prose.

Lesung mit Katinka Ruffieux

Fri, 5 Jun 2026 at 19:30

Gemeindebibliothek Horgen

Join Katinka Ruffieux for a literary reading at Gemeindebibliothek Horgen. An intimate evening of contemporary German-language prose inside the town library, offering storytelling, reflection, and a chance to meet the author.

Und Federn überall

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 at 19:30

CoalMine

Nava Ebrahimi reads from her works at CoalMine in Winterthur, delivering an intimate German-language literary evening. Expect a thoughtful session centered on contemporary prose, followed by a brief Q&A and discussion of storytelling.

Geschichten im Waschhaus

Wed, 8 Jul 2026 at 15:00

Waschhaus - Villa Grunholzer

An intimate literature reading at Waschhaus – Villa Grunholzer in Uster, where local authors present short stories in a warm, conversational setting. Join fellow readers for an afternoon of German storytelling.

Slam-Poesie trifft Stadtgärtnerei

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 at 18:00

Stadtgärtnerei – Zentrum für Pflanzen und Bildung

An atmospheric poetry slam at Stadtgärtnerei – Zentrum für Pflanzen und Bildung in Zurich, where live poets compete and perform among lush greenery. Expect witty verses, urban-nature themes, and a casual, artsy vibe in a welcoming garden-center setting.

Hundstage – Lesung

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 at 20:00

Millers

German-language literature reading of Hundstage at Millers in Zürich on 16 July 2026 at 20:00. An intimate evening of excerpts and notes from the text, set in a cozy venue in the heart of Zürich. A thoughtful, intellectual evening for book lovers seeking literary prose and conversation.

POETRY SLAM STÄDTEBATTLE

Thu, 1 Oct 2026 at 20:15

Volkshaus Zürich — Blauer Saal

Poetry Slam Städtebattle — Zürich vs. Leipzig: an evening of competitive spoken-word performances at Volkshaus Zurich on Oct 1, bringing local poets and sharp new texts to the stage.

Erzählungen für Erwachsene – Schwänke, Sagen & Mythen

Sun, 4 Oct 2026 at 16:00

Villa Grunholzer

An intimate storytelling evening for adults at Villa Grunholzer in Uster, featuring tales, legends, and myths (Schwänke, Sagen, Mythen) in German. Expect vivid narratives that weave folklore with timeless storytelling in a cozy, cultural setting.

Mikael Krogerus & Roman Tschäppeler • Lesung & Zeichnung

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 at 18:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

Authors Mikael Krogerus & Roman Tschäppeler present a live reading and drawing event for their new book “UMDENKEN” at Kaufleuten on 15 Oct 2026.

Mikael Krogerus & Roman Tschäppeler • Lesung & Zeichnung

Tue, 3 Nov 2026 at 19:00

Kaufleuten – Festsaal

Authors Mikael Krogerus & Roman Tschäppeler present a live reading and drawing event for their new book “UMDENKEN” at Kaufleuten on 15 Oct 2026.

TARA-LOUISE WITTWER

Tue, 6 Oct 2026 at 17:30

Volkshaus Zürich — Blauer Saal

Author Tara-Louise Wittwer presents a reading at Volkshaus Zürich on 6 Oct 2026 — an intimate literary evening with excerpts and likely audience Q&A.