Every July, the Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty (FLIP) transforms this small colonial town into one of the world's great literary gatherings. Writers, publishers, translators, and readers from across Brazil and internationally converge on the historic centre for five days of talks, readings, debates, and discussions. The events take place in the cobblestone squares, colonial mansions, and a purpose-built big tent erected outside the old city walls.
The festival has an informal, accessible atmosphere unusual for a high-profile literary event: authors mingle with the public in the bars and restaurants after their sessions, and many talks are in conversation format rather than formal lecture. If you are in Brazil in July, planning your visit to coincide with FLIP is very much worth doing — book accommodation months in advance.