Finally, a date for those empty diaries! It’s been announced that Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival will return to the Swan Hotel in Harrogate from 22-25 July.

After COVID-19 led to cancellation in 2020, it seems that the return to a live festival has been well received – more than 80 per cent of early ticket bookers for the 2020 Festival have already transferred their tickets to 2021. 

So what’s in store? It’s all under wraps just now, but we do know that 2021’s festival is being curated by Programming Chair Ian Rankin and the full author line-up will be announced in the next few months. 

Chief Executive of Harrogate International Festivals, Sharon Canavar, said: ‘‘We are adapting and evolving our plans to be able to deliver a safe and agile festival in line with the government regulations at the time, with additional safety measures where necessary, whilst also ensuring the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival retains the iconic feel that has ensured its place as the most successful crime writing festival in the world. 

”Festival fans can expect a range of live author talks, panels and special guests, as well as some hybrid events to ensure that audiences who are unable to travel can access the Festival, bringing the power of literature to all in 2021.”  

More information can be found at harrogateinternationalfestivals.com which will be updated regularly.

Will you be attending? Or do you think it will be too soon to start going to festivals? Let us know in the comments below.