Each February, Dhaka transforms as the Ekushey Book Fair reawakens the city’s streets and hearts. This isn’t just a gathering of publishers and readers — it’s a vibrant pulse of culture, reflecting the city’s steadfast love for Bengali language and literature. Spanning the expansive grounds of Bangla Academy on the banks of the Buriganga River, the fair draws hundreds of thousands who come to browse thousands of book titles, attend panel discussions, and explore art and music performances.

The fair stretches across several weeks, timed to honor International Mother Language Day on February 21. Walking through its lanes, you’ll face a spirited crowd driven by the profound respect for language and history. Publishers—ranging from established houses to small independent presses—line up their book stalls with everything from classic literature to contemporary voices, academic works to children’s books, all in Bengali and translated editions.

The terrain is urban and straightforward, but navigating the crowds requires patience and planning. Paths between stalls wind tightly, with visitors weaving through layers of eager readers and excited first-time attendees. Expect between 200,000 and 300,000 visitors daily at peak times, especially on weekends, which confirms the fair’s magnetic draw.

Practical preparation includes wearing comfortable footwear; concrete and paved walkways cover the grounds. Carry water; Dhaka’s February weather can range from mild mornings to warm afternoons, and hydration is key amid the throng. Timing your visit early in the day eases the pressure of crowds and offers a chance to attend intimate discussions and book signings. An umbrella or lightweight raincoat can come in handy if unexpected showers visit.

The river nearby seems to whisper encouragement—a steady companion hinting at Dhaka’s eternal flow of culture and change. The breeze carries pages fluttering, sounds of spirited debate, and the occasional street vendor’s calls, blending to create an atmosphere that is as alive as it is educational.

For visitors eager to engage beyond browsing, the fair hosts seminars on literary criticism, poetry recitals, and children’s storytelling competitions—offering a diverse and rich cultural experience that stands fiercely as a pillar of Bengali heritage.

Before you dive in, a practical note: bring a tote or backpack for your book haul, and budget time to step back and absorb the sheer scope of poetry readings, photo exhibits, and historical retrospectives honoring the martyrs of the language movement.

Ekushey Book Fair pulses with the fierce spirit of a people who cherish their language as a core of identity. It’s a lively challenge that demands respect and participation—a communal celebration that is both a cultural pilgrimage and an outright festival of ideas.