The annual WordFest literary festival returns to Calgary and Banff, Oct. 9-14. Now in its 17th year, the festival started as a small gathering of book lovers and authors in Calgary and Banff and featured renowned authors Margaret Atwood and Roch Carrier.

This year, there is something for everyone, including college students who don’t claim to be literary buffs.

“We have events for families, and for younger readers—we also have some for the younger 20-somethings. That’s pretty new for us,” said programming manager Anne Logan.

For those who are hesitant to attend a literary festival,do not fear. Logan suggests going to events that have short readings interspersed with interview components as well as question-and-answer sessions, which are in great supply this year.

Festival-goers are also encouraged to experience WordFest as a social experience.

“It’s not about the written word—it is about bringing people together,” said executive director Jo Steffens.

Contrary to the festival’s origins, this year’s events are not just limited to books.

“However, you are consuming stories – that is what we want to present,” Steffens explained. With stories being told in many different ways, WordFest also showcases these tales through multimedia events, visual art, videos and more.

Wealie Picks

• THIS REALLY HAPPENED
Oct. 9 at 8 p.m. | The Auburn Saloon (163 – 9 Ave SE)
A live story-telling event wherein participants engage the audience with unscripted tales based on real life happenings. Tickets are $8.

• WORD OF MOUTH
Oct. 11 at 9:30 p.m. | Vertigo Theatre (115 – 9 Ave SE)
This creative spoken word event sees local and international poets utilizing music, film, and other mediums to tell their stories. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for students.

• JAAP BLONK WORKSHOP
Oct 10 at 4 p.m. | Downtown U of C Campus (906 – 8 Ave SW)
Prominent Dutch composer Jaap Blonk leads a workshop on improvisation and performance artistry, utilizing text projections, sound clips and more. Admission is free.