RRI.CO.ID, Bandung - The Bandung City Administration in West Java is introducing a new concept in literacy development by holding Big Bad Wolf Books 2026, combined with the Pages and Plates culinary festival. The event runs at Bikasoga from August 3 to 9, 2026, and marks the first time Big Bad Wolf Books has been held in Bandung.

Bandung Mayor, Muhammad Farhan, said Big Bad Wolf Books is not only a book exhibition, but also a literacy tourism destination that combines reading, recreation, and culinary experiences.

“This is more than just a book fair. This is the first event in Bandung that we call literacy tourism. People come not only to buy books, but also to enjoy the atmosphere, read, travel, and most importantly, have a pleasant experience,” said Mayor Farhan on Monday, August 3, 2026.

He hopes the concept will create a new experience in encouraging reading interest among the public. In his view, a relaxed and attractive setting can bring literacy closer to everyday life while also becoming a tourism draw in Bandung.

He also praised the collaboration of various parties supporting the event, including the Bandung City Archives and Library Agency, Big Bad Wolf Books, Bank Indonesia’s West Java Representative Agency, as well as sponsors and partners.

“This event must be a success because it is being held in Bandung for the first time. Thank you to everyone who collaborated so that Bandung residents can enjoy this internationally themed literacy event,” he said.

In addition to millions of books, Big Bad Wolf Books Bandung 2026 is paired with a culinary festival titled Pages and Plates. The concept gives visitors the chance to enjoy a variety of local dishes while reading and hunting for books.

The mayor said the combination of literacy and cuisine is an innovation that can attract more people to enjoy reading in a different atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the Head of Bank Indonesia’s West Java Representative Agency, Junanto Herdiawan, said his institution supports the event as part of efforts to improve public financial literacy. Bank Indonesia is offering various educational programs, including its library service, and encouraging the use of digital payments through QRIS during the event.

“We continue to support literacy improvement, especially financial literacy. All transactions at this event are also encouraged to use QRIS as part of public education on digital payments,” he said.

On the other hand, Big Bad Wolf Books Indonesia Country Director, Marthius Wandi Budianto, expressed gratitude that the international book festival can finally be held in Bandung after being planned for a long time. He urged the public to take the opportunity to find a wide range of books that can serve as sources of inspiration and knowledge.

Big Bad Wolf Books Bandung 2026 runs from August 3 to 9, 2026, daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Jakarta time at Bikasoga in Bandung. In addition to book hunting with various selections and attractive offers, visitors can also enjoy the culinary festival that completes the literacy tourism experience in Bandung. (Annaila Azzahra-EN)