Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend 2026: A Weekend of Inspiration, Parenting, Wellbeing and Great Conversations
Looking for a little inspiration, some time for yourself or simply an excuse to enjoy a good conversation? Bondi Pavilion is bringing together an impressive line-up of authors, journalists and creative thinkers for three days of books, big ideas and thought-provoking discussions this November.
From 20 to 22 November 2026, the beautiful Bondi Pavilion will host the Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend, a celebration of literature, storytelling, creativity and community.
Presented by Waverley Council, the festival offers a wonderful opportunity for Eastern Suburbs mums, parents and book lovers to step away from their busy routines, discover new perspectives and enjoy some inspiring conversations.
With sessions exploring everything from parenting and resilience to brain health, local stories and the impact of social media, there’s something for everyone who enjoys learning, reading and connecting with others.
Parenting, Motherhood and the Ever-Changing Rules of Raising Children
<underline>Saturday 21 November | 1pm–2pm</underline>
Richard Glover: How to Ruin a Child
Every generation seems to have a different opinion about how children should be raised. From changing parenting trends to the endless stream of advice available online, it can sometimes feel impossible to get everything right.
Popular author and broadcaster Richard Glover takes a humorous look at the constantly evolving advice given to parents.
For mums navigating the challenges of raising children, this session promises plenty of laughs, familiar experiences and perhaps a reassuring reminder that parenting has never come with a perfect instruction manual.
Building Resilience and Looking After Your Wellbeing
Dr Lucy Hone: Thriving Through Uncertainty Workshop
<underline>Saturday 21 November | 9am–12pm</underline>
Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and balancing family, work and personal responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Resilience expert Dr Lucy Hone leads a practical workshop exploring how to navigate difficult times, manage uncertainty and build emotional resilience.
Dr Lucy Hone: How Will I Ever Get Through This
<underline>Sunday 22 November | 2.30pm–3.30pm</underline>
In a second session, Dr Hone explores how people can move forward when life takes an unexpected turn.
Both sessions offer valuable perspectives for anyone interested in emotional wellbeing, personal growth and finding strength during challenging times.
Local Authors, Friendship and Stories from the Eastern Suburbs
Sophie Stern & Katie Hoskins: Sisterhood and Suspense in the Eastern Suburbs
<underline>Saturday 21 November | 12.30pm–1.30pm</underline>
There’s something especially enjoyable about reading a novel set in places you know.
Local authors Sophie Stern and Katie Hoskins will discuss the inspiration behind their debut novels, both set against the familiar backdrop of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
Expect an engaging conversation about storytelling, sisterhood, suspense and the real-life experiences that inspire fiction.
For local book clubs and anyone who enjoys discovering Australian authors, this is a session worth adding to the calendar.
Brain Health and Healthy Ageing
Dr Norman Swan: The Brain Cliff
<underline>Saturday 21 November | 3.30pm–4.30pm</underline>
Looking after our health becomes increasingly important as we get older, but what about keeping our brains healthy?
Well-known physician and health broadcaster Dr Norman Swan explores the science of brain ageing, challenging common assumptions and sharing insights from people who maintain strong cognitive abilities later in life.
This session will appeal to anyone interested in healthy ageing, longevity and maintaining mental sharpness.
Start Your Sunday with Yoga and Creativity
Rachael Coopes: Sunday Creative Flow
<underline>Sunday 22 November | 10am–11am</underline>
For those who enjoy combining movement, mindfulness and creativity, actor, author and yoga teacher Rachael Coopes will lead a special Sunday morning workshop.
Blending yoga with creative expression, this session offers a refreshing way to start the day and explore the connection between movement and imagination.
It’s an appealing option for mums looking to enjoy a little personal time during the weekend.
More Inspiring Conversations Across the Weekend
Beyond the parenting and wellbeing sessions, the festival features an impressive range of speakers and topics.
Highlights include:
- Anne Summers – Ideas Matter: Friday 20 November, 6.30pm. An opening address exploring ideas and freedom of expression.
- Remo & Melanie Giuffré – Passionate Bondi: Saturday 21 November, 2.30pm. Stories, memories and personalities that have shaped Bondi.
- Li Cunxin – The Lucky Son: Saturday 21 November, 5.30pm. The acclaimed dancer shares the story that followed Mao’s Last Dancer.
- Ed Coper – Angertainment: Sunday 22 November, 11am. A discussion about social media outrage and its influence on society.
- Deadly Poets Society: Sunday 22 November, 3.30pm. A celebration of First Nations poetry, storytelling and creative expression.
- James Bradley – AI and the Arts: Sunday 22 November, 5pm. Exploring creativity and human expression in the age of artificial intelligence.
A Weekend to Reconnect with Books, Ideas and Yourself
Between school drop-offs, work commitments, family activities and everyday responsibilities, finding time to read, reflect or explore new ideas isn’t always easy.
Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend offers a chance to do exactly that.
Whether you attend one session with a friend, make it a book club outing or spend an entire afternoon exploring the program, the festival provides an opportunity to reconnect with the joy of learning and conversation.
And with Bondi Beach right outside the Pavilion, you can easily combine your visit with a coffee, lunch or a relaxing walk along the beachfront.
Event Details
Event: Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend 2026
Dates: Friday 20 – Sunday 22 November 2026
Location: Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach NSW
Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the session or workshop.
Suitable for: Adults, parents, book lovers and anyone interested in literature, wellbeing and contemporary ideas.
Organiser: Waverley Council, with support from Gertrude & Alice Bookstore.
Bookings: Visit the official event website to explore individual sessions, ticket prices and availability.
Discover the Full Program and Book Your Favourite Sessions
With three days of engaging speakers and conversations, Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend is a wonderful opportunity to discover something new, spend time with friends or simply enjoy a few hours doing something for yourself.
Explore the full Bondi Books & Ideas Weekend program and booking information and start planning your weekend.
