On Wednesday, September 22, the Juan Pablo Duarte Cultural Plaza filled with readers, authors and officials for the inauguration of the XXVIII Santo Domingo International Book Fair 2026 (FILSD 2026). Panama, designated guest of honor country, played a central role in the ceremony, while Dominican poet José Mármol was honored for his career in the country’s contemporary poetry.
An event with international reach
The fair, which will run from September 24 to October 4, will feature more than 750 activities and the participation of 70 international writers, 32 foreign publishers, 21 national publishers, and 44 Dominican bookstores. According to the organization, the program includes literature, art, film and other cultural expressions, with offerings for audiences of all ages.
Words from officials
The Vice President of the Republic, Raquel Peña, highlighted literature as a tool for transformation and generational transcendence. “The fair is a space to celebrate cultural richness and diversity and to showcase Dominican talent,” she said. The Minister of Culture, Roberto Ángel Salcedo, emphasized the importance of reading to develop critical thinking and the role of fairs as a meeting point between authors and readers.
Recognition of José Mármol
During the ceremony, a special recognition was presented to poet José Mármol, who expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Culture for the distinction and for dedicating the edition to him. The audience received a video about Panama and a performance by its dance troupe, which represented the traditions and cultural diversity of the guest country.
Cultural agenda and expectations
The schedule spans ten days of activities that will combine literature, art, film and other cultural expressions. Visitors will be able to enjoy talks, readings, panels and book presentations by international and national authors. The fair will also serve to boost the visibility of Dominican literature on the international stage and strengthen cultural relations with Panama.
Source credits: n.com.do
