Lincoln Book Festival Launches 2026 Flash Fiction Competition

The annual competition, now a firm favourite in the festival calendar, challenges participants to craft a complete story in exactly 50 words — no more, no less. The concise format encourages imagination, precision, and originality, making it accessible to both experienced writers and those trying creative writing for the first time.

This year’s theme connects closely with the National Year of Reading 2026 and its nationwide “Go All In” campaign. The initiative aims to encourage people to rediscover reading by connecting it with their existing interests and passions. By focusing on hobbies, the competition invites entrants to explore the stories, characters and moments that can grow out of the activities people love most.

Entries will be judged across three age categories:

• Primary (Reception to Year 6)
• Secondary (Year 7 to Year 13)
• Adult (18+, with no upper age limit)

Winners in each category will receive a £30 book voucher, and selected entries will be published on the Lincoln Book Festival website. As part of the 2026 festival celebrations, shortlisted writers will also have the opportunity to share their work with a live audience.

The deadline for submissions is midnight on Monday 24 August 2026.

The competition forms part of the wider build‑up to Lincoln Book Festival 2026, which will take place from Thursday 1 to Sunday 4 October. The festival will once again feature a diverse programme of author talks, workshops, performances and family‑friendly events across the city, with full details due to be released later this summer.

Further information about how to enter the Flash Fiction Competition can be found at:
www.lincolnbookfestival.org/flash-fiction-competition/