WRITERS WEEKEND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
We are so excited for Writers Weekend!
We've put together a collection of FAQs to give you all the info you need to the best time this weekend.
Writers Weekend is happening Sat 26 and Sun 27 Feb (this weekend!).
What is Writers Weekend?
We’re bringing together authors and audiences to make waves of connection in the beautiful gardens of Fremantle Arts Centre (FAC). We have more than 40 events to explore across the weekend!
Gather with us for a series of sparkling conversations with some of Australia’s best new writing talent alongside many of our greatest authors and thinkers. Bring the kids along for our Family Day festivities on Sunday morning and enjoy a view of our port city and the famous Fremantle doctor as you immerse yourself in stories.
How much are tickets?
All Writers Weekend events are Pay What You Can (excluding Tim Winton). This means you can pay as little as you wish. Anything you pay above the suggested $19 per session ticket price will help other people attend Festival events where cost is a barrier. We want Writers Weekend to be accessible to all!
Family Day in Freo events are free but require pre-registration.
How do we get there?
You can ride a bike, drive or take public transport!
There will be Shuttle Buses running from Fremantle Train Station and John Curtin College (next door to Fremantle Arts Centre) all weekend!
All detailed information about transport is on our venue page.
Are there seats? Can I bring a picnic blanket?
Each individual event's venue will have seats. However, you’re welcome to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the FAC grounds in between sessions.
Why is Writers Weekend in Fremantle?
Fremantle Arts Centre is an idyllic location to enjoy the best in community and conversation in a relaxed family friendly atmosphere. The port city venue reflects our 2022 Wardan (Ocean) theme. Previous Writers Weekends have been at a range of locations, including at UWA and in central Perth. Did you know, our very first Writers Weekends were held at Fremantle Arts Centre in the 1990s? It’s good to be back.
What COVID-safe measures are in place?
At Fremantle Arts Centre, it is a condition of entry for patrons 16 and over to register your attendance and demonstrate proof of vaccination or a valid exemption. Check in via the SafeWA or ServiceWA apps or manually register at the entrance. It is also a requirement that masks are worn in all public indoor settings and we strongly encourage mask wearing in the outdoor spaces.. Where possible, please social distance.
The safety of our audiences, staff and artists is our highest priority. All Perth Festival events will be delivered under our approved COVID Event Plan. So please don’t attend any Festival events if you are feeling unwell or experiencing any symptoms.
We are following all government requirements relating to the management of COVID-19. These requirements may change with very little notice. For more details and the most up to date info see our COVID-safe page.
What access services are available?
You can find access info on each event page and the FAC venue page. All Writers Weekend venues are wheelchair accessible. However, please note Front Garden, South Lawn and Upper Lawn venues are grassed.
All sessions in the South Lawn will be Auslan interpreted and open captioned. Please approach one of our friendly staff or volunteers for access assistance.
For specific details on venue accessibility please download our Access Guide (also available in a word document).
If you’d like to speak to someone about Access at Perth Festival get in touch via phone on 08 6488 8616 or email.
What are the food options and can I bring a picnic?
We've got you covered with the Fremantle Arts Centre café operating from 8am and the Gage Roads bar open from 12pm both days. Food trucks will also be serving a range of food and drinks from the top terrace all weekend. You are welcome to bring a picnic, but BYO alcohol is not permitted.
Are children welcome?
Absolutely! And there is a full program of family fun planned for Sunday morning. Check out the Family Day in Freo events and celebrate the magic of stories with your littlest book lovers.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not permitted in FAC’s grounds.
Exceptions made for guide, hearing and assistance dogs.
Is there a map of the venue?
Yes! You can find it here.
Where can I get more info on the Writers Weekend events?
Check out the full Writers Weekend program!
It's going to be beautifully warm this weekend, so make sure you bring a hat and stay hydrated!