Kelanawisata.id, Bantul - Discussions about the regime hold a unique appeal, but such weighty material needs to be presented in an engaging way so that the audience can grasp its content more easily. The Jogja Art + Book Festival brings together art and politics, creating a space for literacy, discussion, and critique.

The convergence of these two elements is one of the festival’s strengths, as they complement each other in fostering cultural dialogue. At the Jogja Art + Book Fest (JABFEST) 2026, literacy is not viewed merely as the act of reading books. Instead, it is positioned as a space for asking questions, reflecting, and voicing concerns about various issues.

The Jogja Art + Books Festival 2026 returns for its fourth edition and will take place at The Ratan in Yogyakarta over two weeks, from September 30 to October 12, 2026. This year, JABFEST features the theme “Eyewitness: When Superficiality Reigns, Depth Must Prevail.” This theme serves as the foundation for various activities that invite the public to reexamine social, cultural, and power-related issues through art and conversation.

JABFEST 2026 featured a number of figures from diverse backgrounds. Alissa Wahid led a discussion on tolerance as part of everyday life. Philosopher Martin Suryajaya encourages participants to examine issues more deeply through critical thinking.

Meanwhile, the band Majelis Lidah Berduri uses music to voice criticism of those in power. Writer Saut Situmorang offers his perspective through literary works rooted in personal experience and memory. The presence of these diverse figures enriches the public’s understanding of the issues unfolding around them.

To bring this vision to life, JABFEST 2026 features a number of programs open to the public. The series of activities includes Book Chats, Conversations, Cultural Speeches, Public Lectures (Ora), Artists Speak, Art + Literacy, and a Book Bazaar.

These programs serve as a platform for the public to meet, discuss, enjoy creative works, and engage in the festival’s various creative activities. At this festival, the public is encouraged not only to be spectators but also to take an active part in the conversations and creative processes taking place throughout the event.