Thinking of attending the Bologna Children’s Book Fair in 2025?  Whether you’re an illustrator, writer, publisher, or book lover, this international fair is an unforgettable experience—but it helps to be prepared. In this post, I’m sharing what I learned firsthand, along with practical tips, a printable checklist, where to stay, what to pack, and how to make the most of your time in Bologna.

What I Learned at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair: A 2025 Visitor’s Guide

Last April, I attended the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. It was inspiring, international, and bursting with creative energy—but it can also be a little overwhelming. Here’s what I learned and the tips I wish I’d had before going.

1. It’s Massive

The fair is bigger than I imagined—truly the largest children’s book fair in the world, with over 25,000 visitors from more than 90 countries. It’s a maze of vibrant halls, booths, and creative corners filled with passionate people from across the children’s publishing industry.

Tip:

Pack smart—bring:

• Comfortable shoes and clothes

• Take a look at the map before your visit | HERE  & full Bologna Children's Book Fair site here

 • A charging bank | Plug Type: Type L
 (get special detailed travel for the fair | here)

• A sketchbook and pen

• A water bottle and a small snack

• A spacious, comfortable bag for all the materials you’ll pick up

•There’s a lot of walking, and the café lines (inside and out) can get long.

2. A Global Industry Hotspot

Bologna is where the children’s publishing world comes alive—with creativity and commerce side by side. Publishers, agents, and scouts attend to buy and sell rights: translations, film, audio, and merchandise.

TIP:

If you’re a writer or illustrator, it’s helpful to know that most publisher stands are focused on rights sales, not open portfolio reviews. But there are still great ways to get your work in front of people:

• Some publishers offer occasional review signups (check their booth or website).

• Many stands have submission policy info and business card boxes.

• The fair’s official site often lists opportunities for illustrators ahead of time.

And don’t miss the Bologna Licensing Trade Fair/Kids (BLTF/Kids)—a growing part of the event focused on multimedia, licensing, and branding for children’s content | Sustainablilty .

Official Bologna Children's Book Fair sign up for portfolio reviews & more here

3. Professional Insights

The fair is packed with panels, workshops, and forums on publishing trends, awards, and creative process.

Tip:

Sign up early on the official Children’s Book Fair website for anything with limited space. And leave room in your schedule for spontaneous inspiration.  here

This year includes:

• Visit the Illustrators Survival Corner | here |  New programming on sustainability in publishing |  Emerging illustrators from around the world | A focus on evolving rights markets

4. It's a children's book Illustrators Paradise

The Illustrators Wall is a must-see—and a must-do if you’re an artist. Anyone can pin up a small sample of their work and business card. It fills up fast and becomes its own art installation.

Tip:

• Bring your own push pins or tape (sharing is a great icebreaker!)

• Stick to A4 or smaller sizes

• Be creative—mini portfolios, zines, and clever postcards stand out

• Arrive early on Day 1 if you want a prime spot

5. A Truly Global Gathering

One of the most inspiring parts of Bologna is its global reach. Creatives and publishers come from every corner of the world.

Each year, the fair spotlights a different country. In 2025, Estonia will be the Guest of Honour, showcasing exhibitions, authors, and illustrators across the fair and the city.

Keep your eyes open for city-wide exhibits, like those at Sala Borsa Library, and community programming during fair week.

Check out the  official Bologna Children's Book Fair site for more: here

6. Explore Bologna

The city itself is worth the trip. Next time, I plan to set aside a few days just to sketch and soak in the atmosphere like many illustrators I saw doing.

And yes, this is the home of Tagliatelle al Ragù (“real” Bolognese!), plus tortellini, mortadella, and even pumpkin pasta.

Tips:

• Choose accommodations with care. I’ve stayed both near the fairgrounds (with a shuttle) and in the city center—both were great in different ways.

• If you stay central, you’ll enjoy an easy walk to the fair and access to the charm of Bologna’s historic streets and evening life.

• Many hotels are listed on the BCBF site, but Airbnb also has great options.

7. Bonus Tips & Things to Know

• Bring a European plug adapter. My Airbnb didn’t have standard outlets.

• Pick up a paper map or use the fair’s app. The halls are big, and it’s easy to get turned around.

• Carry a light tote for all the samples, cards, and booklets you’ll collect.

download my bologna children's book fair checklist and tips for more fair and bologna tips and insights: HERE | 
3rd row from bottom: Illustrator Wall  |  correct plug for bologna  | agent and illustrator meet up: Jehane , alejandra, elza, maria |  BEST ICECREAM  cremeria la vecchiastalla stella in bologna 

8. See, Stay & Taste Bologna

Whether you’re heading out after the fair or making a weekend of it, here’s what not to miss:

STAY 

 • Centro Storico (Historic Center) 

 • University District : youthful vibe

 • Bologna is an approachable, easy, richly historic and artsy city to experience.

SEE

• Porticoes of Bologna (UNESCO World Heritage)

• The Two Towers

• Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca

TASTE

• Tagliatelle al Ragù

• Tortellini in Brodo

• Mortadella

• Parmigiano Reggiano

• Zuppa Inglese

• Local wines like Pignoletto or Lambrusco

9. Nearby Day Trips

If you’re extending your stay, Bologna is perfectly placed to explore Italy:

• Florence – 35–40 minutes by high-speed train

• Venice – 1 hour and 25 minutes

• Rome – About 2 hours

Final Takeaway

Go.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious creative, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair is worth every minute. It’s a space to dream, connect, and feel part of something bigger.

Main takeaway: Go! It’s a chance to immerse yourself in children’s literature, connect with creatives, and enjoy Bologna’s rich culture.

Extra Tip: 
Bring the correct plug adapter. I stayed in an Airbnb that didn’t have standard plugs, so check in advance.





I wish you a wonderful visit if you do go! If you hesitating, I highly recommend this one of a kind event. If you hae any questions or if you use this guide or attend the fair, I’d love to hear about your experience. Don’t hesitate to tag me in IG @willowdaygram

If you would like to be in touch with for a full portfolio, commissions, collaborations or just to chat, contact me directly at gina (dot) vide (at) gmail (dot) come -- or DM me at  IG @willowdaygram. 

Warmly, 
Gina 


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