Bendigo Writers Festival's Big Bookmark, which was to run May 8 to 10 this year, is cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bendigo Venues and Events Manager David Lloyd said the City of Greater Bendigo was committed to protecting the community's health during the pandemic.
"It's essential that we work together to contain the spread of the virus to protect all members of our community," Mr Lloyd said.
"We apologise for the disappointment this cancellation will cause. However, public health takes priority, and we will make the necessary decisions to respond responsibly to this health crisis."
At this stage, the Writers Festival schools' day Text Marks The Spot will proceed as planned in August 2020.
Festival Director Rosemary Sorensen said the focus would now turn to the next Bendigo Writers Festival in May 2021.
"We look forward to welcoming both writers and audiences to Bendigo again next year, to make our city ring with the voices of energising, inspiring, joyful discussion," Ms Sorensen said.
Bendigo Venues and Events will contact ticket and pass-holders shortly to arrange refunds.
