Bologna Children’s Book Fair

13 - 16 April 2026

The Bologna Children’s Book Fair is an industry leading event that has succeeded in bringing together a unique and diverse global audience thanks to 61 years experience. The result is the world’s premium copyright exchange hub when it comes to publishing  which also extends to current multimedia and licensing businesses for children’s stories, illustration, animation and related areas. 

Publishers, illustrators, graphic designers, literary agents, authors, translators, mobile developers, licensors and licensees, packagers, printers, distributors, audiobook professionals, booksellers, brands, librarians and teachers all flock to the event each spring to experience the world of books and multimedia products in thousands of booths across six huge halls.

The world famous Illustrators Exhibition and industry recognized BolognaRagazzi awards are some of key pillars that make this event so special: BCBF is a unique mix of a cultural book show and an international rights business forum for all types of content for children.

BolognaBookPlus, the brand extension dedicated to general trade publishing organised in co-operation with AIE (Italian Publishers Association) and Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids, the exhibition bringing together the major international licensing and entertainment players, in the kid’s industry, has become an integral part of Bologna Children’s Book Fair. 

Three global events for international rights and licensing trading.

What makes BCBF unique

It’s the home of children’s content 
BCBF is the premium destination to dive deep into the world of children’s books and content, making it the essential meeting point for the entire industry.  
 
It’s a cultural hub 
BCBF is a thriving creative centre. Through exhibitions, workshops, presentations, and panel discussions, it serves as a global reference point for discovering fresh trends, emerging talent and innovative strategies in the field 
 
For industry professionals only 
While copyright exchange is at the heart of BCBF, the event opens up a wealth of business opportunities for every player in the publishing world, making it the ultimate networking and deal-making platform. 
 
It’s a year-round event 
BCBF is more than just a four-day fair—it’s a global, year-round presence. In addition to co-organising the China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair (CCBF), BCBF embarks on the Bologna Grand Tour each autumn, bringing its highlights to the industry’s most prestigious events. Its reach extends even further through international book and illustration exhibitions, as well as global book donation initiatives that enrich library collections worldwide

 

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