FAQ
What is the Cavendish Literary Festival?
Readers, writers, and storytellers gather to connect over books, share their big ideas, and let their imagination wander in the very place that inspired the iconic works of L.M. Montgomery. Set against the backdrop of Prince Edward Island’s breathtaking North Shore, the festival features author talks, hands-on workshops, mindful movement and literary walks. Whether you’re an avid reader, an emerging writer, or someone who simply loves a good story, this is your invitation to be part of something unforgettable.
When and where is the Festival taking place?
The Cavendish Literary Festival will take place September 24–27, 2026, across multiple venues in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island. Set in the land of Anne, along PEI’s stunning North Shore, all venues are within close proximity, making it easy to take in the full festival experience.
How do I get there?
There are several convenient ways to get to Prince Edward Island. Drive across the 12.9 kilometre Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, sail aboard Northumberland Ferries from Nova Scotia or fly into the Charlottetown airport. Click here to view non stop destinations, direct from YYG.
How do I get around?
Cavendish does not have public transit, so having a car is the best and most convenient way to get around the area. There are several transportation options available across Prince Edward Island. Click here to view a list of services that can help you get around during your stay.
Need a taxi? Red Sands Taxi operates in the area and can be reached here.
What is the weather like at the end of September in Prince Edward Island?
Late September is a beautiful time of year to visit Prince Edward Island. The air is fresh and crisp, and the landscape starts to show off its fall colours. Daytime temperatures are typically mild, ranging from 12°C to 18°C, with cooler evenings that may dip below 10°C. It’s the perfect season for cozy sweaters, dressing in layers and light jackets.
What else is there to do in Cavendish?
Cavendish is full of things to see and do, especially in the fall. It’s a great time to explore Prince Edward Island National Park, where the coastal trails are perfect for a scenic walk or bike ride. Golfers will love that Cavendish is Atlantic Canada’s #1 golf destination, with four world-class courses all nearby. Cavendish Beach is especially beautiful this time of year, ideal for a quiet stroll along the north shore. You’ll also find fantastic local dining, with restaurants serving fresh PEI seafood and seasonal favourites. For families, there’s lots of fun at Mariners Cove Boardwalk and Cavendish Beach Adventure Zone. And for those interested in literature, don’t miss the Cavendish Literary Trail—a self-guided or guided tour that explores the life and works of L.M. Montgomery in the very place that inspired Anne of Green Gables.
For more fall events and experiences, check out the Golden Days on the North Shore Fall E-guide.
What is included in the Festival Pass?
Choose the festival experience that’s right for you!
New for 2026, our VIP Festival Pass offers the ultimate literary weekend, including access to 15 events of your choice plus exclusive perks like priority seating, an author meet and greet, a festival book bag, and more.
Looking for flexibility? The Festival Pass: Pick 5 and Pick 8 packages let you build your own festival experience by selecting the events you’d like to attend throughout the weekend.
Planning to stay in Cavendish? Guests who book a minimum two-night stay with a participating accommodation partner receive exclusive perks. Guests receive discounted pricing on Festival Pass Pick 5 and Pick 8 packages, while VIP Festival Pass holders receive a special welcome gift basket. Be sure to book your accommodation first, as you’ll need an access code from your accommodation to access these offers when purchasing tickets. Accommodation offers cannot be applied after tickets have been purchased.
Please note that some festival events overlap. Review your selections carefully before completing your purchase.
View participating accommodations: https://www.cavendishliteraryfestival.com/accommodations/
Capacity is limited and event selections are required at the time of purchase. Some events may sell out quickly. Venues and schedules are subject to change.
What if I want to attend more than the 5 or 8 events included in the Festival Pass?
If you’d like to attend more events, you can purchase extra tickets for individual events separately (subject to availability). This way, you can customize your weekend and enjoy as much of the Festival as you’d like.
Is there a ticket discount if I book a 2-night stay?
Guests who book a minimum two-night stay with a participating accommodation partner receive exclusive perks. Guests receive discounted pricing on Festival Pass Pick 5 and Pick 8 packages, while VIP Festival Pass holders receive a special welcome gift basket (valued at $40). Be sure to book your accommodation first, as you’ll need an access code from your accommodation to access these offers when purchasing tickets. Accommodation offers cannot be applied after tickets have been purchased.
View participating accommodations: https://www.cavendishliteraryfestival.com/accommodations/
Can I purchase individual tickets to events?
Individual event tickets will be available for purchase to all events.
Please note that the following events listed below are special events that must be purchased separately and are not included in the Festival pass.
- Montgomery’s Cavendish Legacy Tour
- Walk and Words
- Turkey Soup for the Mind
- The Little Readers Club
- Behind The Veil
- The Literary Table: From Page to Plate with Chef Adam Loo
Are tickets available at the door?
Subject to availability, tickets for individual events will be available for purchase on-site at the Cavendish Visitor Information Centre during the festival. We recommend buying in advance to guarantee your spot, as some events may sell out.
What are the main venues for the Festival?
The Festival Headquarters will be located at Samuel’s Coffee House in Avonlea Village, where you’ll find information and a welcoming space to connect. The Bookmark will also be on-site all weekend, offering a selection of books for purchase, including titles from featured authors.
Festival events will take place at several beautiful and unique venues across Cavendish, including:
- Turkey Tavern, Avonlea Village
- PEI Preserve Company
- Kindred Spirits Inn & Cottages
- New London Community Complex
- Watermark Theatre
- Tide and Tales
- Green Gables Heritage Place
- The Ship’s Company Pub & Galley, Mariner’s Cove Boardwalk
- Harmony House Theatre
- Marco Polo Land Restaurant
- Gulf Shore Consolidated School
- Raspberry Point
- Carr’s Oyster Bar
- Farmer’s Bank Event Barn
- Samuel’s Coffee House, Avonlea Village *festival headquarters
- Cavendish Visitor Information Centre
Are there accommodations nearby?
There are plenty of places to stay close to the festival venues from cozy cottages to charming inns and B&Bs. Click here to view a list of nearby accommodations. Please contact the property directly to book your stay.
What restaurants are close by?
There are many great dining options in the Cavendish area to enjoy during the Cavendish Literary Festival. Local favourites include PEI Preserve Co., Tide & Tales, Samuels Coffee House, Turkey Tavern, and The Mill. You’ll also find excellent nearby restaurants such as Carr’s Oyster Bar, Chez Yvonne’s, Pipers Restaurant, Dahlia, Blue Mussel Café, The Rustico Cannery, Raspberry Point Oysters and traditional lobster suppers.
Click here for a full list of restaurants in the area. Reservations are recommended, and it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Is the festival family friendly?
Families are invited to join us for the Little Readers Club, a fun-filled children’s event featuring story time, activities, special guests, and a community book swap. It’s a great opportunity for young readers to explore new books, spark their imagination, and enjoy a memorable day with family and friends. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Will there be book signings?
At all events, authors’ books will be available for purchase, and the authors will be signing books after their sessions. It’s a great chance to meet your favourite writers and take home a signed copy.
Are refunds available if I can’t attend?
All tickets are final sale, with no refunds or exchanges. In the event of a cancellation due to weather, we will notify affected ticket holders via the email provided at the time of purchase. Refunds will only be issued in the event of a cancellation by the Cavendish Literary Festival.