The New Yorker Festival has announced its 2026 speaker roster, showcasing an impressive array of entertainment industry figures, authors, and cultural commentators. The three-day event will take place October 23-25 in New York City and serves as the magazine’s yearly gathering celebrating culture and ideas. Late-night host Conan O’Brien will serve as the festival’s primary headliner, participating in a conversation with New Yorker editor-in-chief David Remnick.
The confirmed lineup includes numerous prominent entertainment personalities such as actors Mariska Hargitay, Mahershala Ali, Parker Posey, and Ethan Hawke, alongside comedians Hannah Einbinder and Cole Escola. Award-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin and filmmaker Ken Burns are also scheduled to appear. Musicians performing at the festival include alternative rock group Pixies, trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, and singer-songwriter King Princess. A distinguished group of literary figures rounds out the roster, featuring novelists including Colson Whitehead, Min Jin Lee, and Elizabeth Strout.
Beyond individual appearances, the festival will feature specialized panels and roundtable discussions. Notable programming includes conversations on artificial intelligence and powerful leadership figures, as well as live podcast recordings. The Marguerite Casey Foundation will sponsor a panel addressing freedom-related political topics. Ticket sales commence September 2, with New Yorker subscribers receiving special pricing discounts through the magazine’s official website.
Originally reported by Variety →
About the Author
