Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2014

Dear Friends, Welcome to Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2014, celebrating Saraswati: Wisdom & Knowledge and what can be learned from creative expression. I have prepared a short video message in lieu of being able to welcome every one of you in person. View it here. As we mentioned last week, coinciding with UWRF 2014 is a hugely significant ceremony at the Pura Gunung Lebah, the sacred 8th century temple located at the merging of two streams locally known as Campuhan. During this time, all of Ubud and surrounding areas will unite in worship and prayer with an underlying emphasis on harmony for the planet. It's a perfect time for us to also be celebrating a Festival with the theme Saraswati: Wisdom & Knowledge; and a perfect chance for visitors to witness a significant cultural and religious festival firsthand. There will be a number of colourful street processions and lively rituals to enjoy, which will also result in some road closures and other practical considerations to keep in mind for during UWRF. We put together an informational piece on the website detailing the cultural significance and practical impacts here: and here. Back to our Festival of letters – our official Main Program sessions start tomorrow, but if you wish to kickstart your Festival today, you can join us at Pecha Kucha at Betelnut tonight – entry is free and with an incredible line-up of #uwrf14 artists, it's set to be fast, furious fun. It starts at 8pm. And, we're pleased to add an extra Special Event at the stunning Tandjung Sari Hotel on October 7, more information below. However you choose to prepare for the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, be assured that you can do so knowing you have just begun five of the most enjoyable and enlightening days of your life. I look forward to sharing them with you!