Queen's Park

Too many book festivals don’t have enough festival. It isn’t that there’s too much emphasis on books (how could there be?) but that there just aren't sufficient opportunities to have fun with your fellow bookworms. But not Queen’s Park Book Fest, which is less meeting of the literary elite, more village fete. Held, as always, in the public park, it’ll combine literary celebs with stand-up comedy, local history and lectures on pressing issues of the day. And crucially, each day is capped off by a party into the night. Not like a rave but, you know, just a jolly good time. This year, highlights include BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty talking about her new book on women's health, Alan Hollingshurst discussing his latest portrait of modern England, and a rare public appearance from novelist Hanif Kureishi after he became paralysed. Plus, to sweeten the deal there are foodie events including a panel discussion from chefs Thomasina Miers, Ben Lippett, and Yotam Ottolenghi. Delicious!