The Black British Book Festival returns to London's Barbican as Pan Macmillan headline sponsors for fourth year running

This autumn, the Black British Book Festival (BBBF) returns to London’s Barbican Centre for its fifth year — bringing together some of Britain’s most loved cultural figures, including Sir Lenny Henry, June Sarpong OBE, Denise Lewis DBE, JB Gill (JLS, Songs of Praise), Marcus Ryder MBE, and musician and activist Jordan Stephens.

Pan Macmillan is proud to be headline sponsor of the event for the fifth consecutive year.

Founded in 2021 by author and cultural entrepreneur Selina Brown, the festival was born from frustration:

“When I was self-publishing, I was told my book wouldn’t sell because there was a Black girl on the cover,” says Brown. “I decided then that our stories deserved more — more visibility, more celebration, more space. This festival is my answer to that.”

Now attracting over 5,500 attendees annually, BBBF has become Europe’s largest celebration of Black literature — a day where readers, authors, and families come together not just for books, but for belonging.

Headline sessions include:

●      The Shape of Us — June Sarpong & Denise Lewis DBE on legacy, identity, and thriving in the spotlight.

●      The Big Payback — Sir Lenny Henry & Marcus Ryder on reparations, power, and the price of justice.

●      Horizons & Heartbreak — Jordan Stephens in a raw, unfiltered conversation on creativity and mental health.

●      Farmyard Magic — Storytime & Animals with JB Gill

With 35 events packed into a single day, — from masterclasses to family-friendly workshops — the festival offers something for every age and interest. The Children’s Zone will be alive with storytelling and crafts, while the Black Book Marketplace will showcase new and established voices from across the UK.

Sir Lenny Henry said:

“My running mate Marcus Ryder and I are as pleased as punch to be involved in the Black British Book Festival. We can’t wait to throw down and debate reparations, race, and how to discuss these things without getting cancelled. See you there.”

June Sarpong OBE said:

"Stories have the power to open minds and change worlds. This festival is a living testament to the brilliance, resilience, and creativity of Black Britain — and I’m honoured to be part of it."

Joanna Prior, CEO of Pan Macmillan (headline sponsor), said:

“It’s one of the most exciting and vital events in the publishing calendar — a joyful, necessary celebration of Black British voices.”

Karena Johnson, Head of Creative Collaboration at the Barbican, added:

“Last year’s event was vibrant, powerful, and filled with joy. This year’s line-up is exceptional, and we’re proud to host this cultural landmark again.”

Tickets: Wristbands are intentionally priced to be accessible — just £15 for a full festival pass — and go on sale Friday 22 August 2025 at www.barbican.org.uk. Early booking is strongly advised.