Literary Leicester Festival to Spotlight Crime Fiction in Tribute to Agatha Christie
This March, the Literary Leicester festival will place crime fiction at the forefront of its programming, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of Agatha Christie, renowned as the 'Queen of Crime'. The festival's opening day on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the University of Leicester, will feature a series of free events delving into Christie's life, her enduring legacy, and the art of crime writing.
Opening Day Highlights and Schedule
The opening day includes several key sessions designed to engage attendees with the world of crime literature. From 12:30 to 1:30 PM, The Life and Times of Agatha Christie will offer insights into her influential career. Following this, from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, How to Be a Liar will explore techniques for crafting suspense, while Crimes of Tomorrow, from 3:30 to 4:30 PM, will discuss future trends in the genre.
Evening events will showcase bestselling authors Sophie Hannah, who continues the adventures of Hercule Poirot, and Louise Doughty, acclaimed for Apple Tree Yard. They will share their expertise in contemporary crime and suspense writing, providing valuable perspectives for enthusiasts and aspiring writers alike.
Festival Overview and Additional Events
Running from March 18 to 21, 2026, Literary Leicester offers all events free of charge, making it accessible to a wide audience. The full programme, available on the festival website, includes diverse activities beyond the opening day. For instance, on Thursday, March 19, events range from a creative writing student showcase to discussions on climate hope and book prize judging.
Further highlights include a visual poetry workshop on Friday, March 20, and family-friendly events on Saturday, March 21, such as a kids' maths story session and a literary bike tour. An additional lecture by Dame Jacqueline Wilson is scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, extending the festival's reach.
Dr Harry Whitehead, co-director of the festival, expressed enthusiasm: "Our opening day brings together some of the UK’s favourite authors for a fascinating look at crime writing and the enduring legacy of Agatha Christie." This celebration not only honors a literary icon but also fosters community engagement through literature and the arts.
