European Authors Day, celebrated under the READ. For Real. and #ReadForReal campaign, is a Europe-wide initiative promoting reading and the creativity of authors. Launched in 2023 with support from the European Commission, it is led by a consortium of seven partner organisations from five countries, with continued co-funding from Creative Europe. The 2026 celebration runs from 11 November to 12 December and invites people across Europe to enjoy books and connect with authors, illustrators and translators through readings, workshops and other community events.

The initiative is open to everyone, including authors, schools, preschools, libraries, bookstores, families, publishers, businesses and local authorities. Its website helps participants register events, find local support hubs and access free materials for organising activities. It also shares event listings, multilingual resources, webinars, workshops, conferences and evidence about the role of reading. Through year-round collaboration and public celebrations, European Authors Day encourages reading as a meaningful part of everyday life and works to strengthen literacy across Europe.