The Amar Ekushe Book Fair 2026 is set to begin today, February 26, under the theme "Multidimensional Bangladesh." Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will officially inaugurate the month-long event as the chief guest at 2:00 PM.
Fair Schedule and Highlights
The fair will feature daily thematic seminars on the main stage from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by cultural programs until 5:00 PM.
Children's Hour: Every Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Activities: Competitions in drawing, recitation, and music for children and adolescents.
Book Launches: Dedicated areas at Suhrawardy Udyan will facilitate new book unveiling ceremonies.
Participation and Layout
A total of 549 publishing houses are participating this year across 1,018 units. This is a slight decrease from last year’s 708 institutions and 1,084 units.
Bangla Academy Premises: 81 institutions.
Suhrawardy Udyan: 468 institutions.
Little Magazine Corner: 87 stalls located near the open stage at Suhrawardy Udyan.
Children's Corner: 63 institutions across 107 units.
Due to the positioning of the Metro Rail station, the exit point has been shifted near the Temple Gate. Four entry and exit points will be available at TSC, Doel Chattar, the MRT basin plant, and the Engineering Institution.
Sales and Facilities
Books will be sold at a 25% discount by Bangla Academy and other participating private publishers, while government institutions will follow their standard discount rates.
In light of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan, Tarawih prayer arrangements will be available within the Suhrawardy Udyan area. Other facilities include organized food stalls near the Engineering Institution, prayer rooms, and washrooms.
Security and Regulations
The fairgrounds will remain a plastic-free and smoke-free zone. Comprehensive security will be provided by the Police, RAB, Ansar, and various intelligence agencies, supported by an extensive network of CCTV cameras and archway metal detectors at all entry points.
A Delayed Start
While the book fair traditionally begins on the first day of February (the month of language), the schedule was adjusted this year.
Initially proposed for December due to the 13th Parliamentary Election and the timing of Ramadan, the start date was ultimately finalized for February 26 after several postponements.
