2 Days to Go: Preparing for CCBF 2026 — How to Make Every Moment Count

With only two days remaining before the Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair (CCBF) 2026 opens its doors, excitement continues to build among publishers, authors, illustrators, literary agents, educators, booksellers, and readers from around the world. From 13–15 November 2026, the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre (SWEECC) will once again become a vibrant meeting place where creativity, publishing, and international collaboration come together. Whether you are attending for the first time or returning for another year, thoughtful preparation can help turn a busy schedule into a truly rewarding experience.

One of the best ways to prepare is to become familiar with the event programme before arriving. CCBF is much more than an exhibition of books. Across the three-day event, visitors can explore professional conferences, publishing seminars, illustration showcases, networking activities, cultural exhibitions, and copyright meetings that highlight the many dimensions of today’s publishing industry. Reviewing the schedule ahead of time allows you to prioritize the sessions that align with your interests while still leaving room for unexpected discoveries along the way.

For authors, CCBF offers a valuable opportunity to observe the publishing industry from a broader international perspective. Attending panel discussions and professional seminars provides insight into global market trends, international publishing practices, and the growing demand for diverse stories across different cultures. Listening to editors, publishers, literary agents, and fellow writers can spark new ideas while offering practical knowledge that continues to benefit your writing long after the fair has ended.

Illustrators will also find countless opportunities for inspiration throughout the event. One of CCBF’s signature attractions is the Golden Pinwheel Young Illustrators Competition, an internationally respected platform that recognizes emerging artistic talent and celebrates excellence in illustration. The competition highlights creative voices from around the world while encouraging innovation in visual storytelling. Likewise, the Illustrators Avenue provides visitors with the chance to discover original artwork, meet talented artists, and gain a deeper appreciation for the role illustration plays in bringing stories to life.

Publishers and literary professionals should also take advantage of CCBF’s reputation as one of Asia-Pacific’s leading copyright and rights trading hubs. Many of the publishing industry’s most meaningful collaborations begin with simple introductions at international book fairs. Scheduling meetings in advance, preparing presentation materials, carrying business cards, and researching prospective partners can help maximize networking opportunities throughout the event. Even informal conversations often lead to partnerships that continue well beyond the exhibition halls.

Comfort should never be overlooked when preparing for an event of this scale. CCBF brings together hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors across multiple exhibition spaces, making comfortable footwear, a reusable water bottle, a notebook for ideas, and a spacious tote bag practical essentials. You’ll likely spend hours exploring exhibits, attending presentations, and meeting fellow professionals, so arriving well prepared allows you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about the small details.

While planning is important, it’s equally valuable to leave space for spontaneity. Some of the most memorable experiences at CCBF happen unexpectedly. You might discover an independent publisher whose catalog perfectly matches your interests, attend a seminar that changes your perspective on publishing, or strike up a conversation that leads to a future collaboration. International book fairs have a unique way of creating opportunities that cannot always be planned in advance.

As Citi of Books prepares to participate in CCBF 2026, we look forward to joining publishing professionals from across the globe in celebrating creativity, exchanging ideas, and discovering new opportunities for our authors. Every international book fair offers the chance to build relationships, learn from industry leaders, and introduce remarkable stories to wider audiences. With only two days remaining before the exhibition begins, now is the perfect time to finalize your plans and prepare for an inspiring experience that promises to leave a lasting impression long after the final day of the fair.