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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.

The Cavendish Literary Festival will take place September 26–28, 2025, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Festival Passes include your choice of two of the three spotlight sessions as well as your choice of five of the other events plus the free Open Mic event. Festival passes do NOT include Secret Paths: A Literary Walk through Cavendish as well as Oven Mitts and Oyster Rakes: Sensual Storytelling in Food Writing with Stuart Hickox. Tickets for these two events can be purchased individually.

Festival pass holders, will receive $1.00 off beverages purchased at Samuel’s in Avonlea Village, throughout the weekend!

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.
Individual tickets go on sale September 1, 2025.

Your Festival Pass gives you access to 2 Spotlight Sessions and 5 additional events of your choice plus the free Open mic event. If you’d like to attend more, 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.

Special discounts are available for guests who book a minimum two-night stay with one of our partner accommodations. At the time of booking, please confirm directly with your accommodation to ensure the discount applies to your Festival Pass purchase. A full list of partner accommodations can be found on our website. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll be able to purchase your Festival Passes at the promotional rate.

This year’s Cavendish Literary Festival features an inspiring lineup of headliners:

Donna Jones Alward – Author of When the World Fell Silent and the upcoming Ship of Dreams, Donna has been captivating readers with heartfelt stories of homecomings and happy endings since 2006. Her historical fiction blends a deep love of history with characters who courageously step beyond their fears to embrace the lives they long for.

Antonio Michael Downing – Author of the powerful memoir Saga Boy and the children’s book Stars in My Crown, Antonio is also the host of CBC Radio’s The Next Chapter, where he explores the literary world with authors and columnists. He writes books, sings songs, and tries to make his grandma proud. His debut novel, Black Cherokee, marks an exciting new chapter in his storytelling journey.

Linden MacIntyre – A bestselling novelist and award-winning journalist, Linden’s storytelling has resonated with audiences across Canada. His novel The Bishop’s Man earned the prestigious Giller Prize, and his other acclaimed works, including The Wake, continue to inspire and provoke thought. His new book, An Accidental Villain, is an engrossing, page-turning exploration of the little-known life of Sir Hugh Tudor. Appointed by his friend Winston Churchill to lead the police in Ireland during the Irish War of Independence.

Plus many more incredible writers will be featured throughout the weekend’s events.

Individual event tickets will be available for purchase starting September 1, subject to availability.

Please note that The Secret Paths Hike and Stories of the land and sea with Stuart Hickox and lunch at Turkey Tavern are special events that must be purchased separately and are not included in the Festival Pass.

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.

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
  • Moo Moo BBQ, Avonlea Village
  • Samuels Coffee House, Avonlea Village
  • PEI Preserve Company 
  • Watermark Theatre
  • Green Gables Heritage Place
  • Kindred Spirits Inn & Cottages
  • Tide and Tales
  • The Mill in New Glasgow
  • Cavendish Visitor Information Centre

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.

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, 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.

We encourage young readers and their families to explore our Kids’ Corner events, presented in partnership with Pownal Street Press and children’s author Sheree Fitch. Kids 15 and under get in free when accompanied by a paying adult.

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.

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.