Book Week 2026: Dive into Fairy Tales with the Perfect Princess Dress and Don't Let Roadworks Ruin the Fun

It's almost that time again: Book Week 2026 is just around the corner! From 7 to 15 March, everything is about the written word, but who says you have to stick to just reading? More and more fans are diving into the skin of their favourite characters. This year, I'm expecting a real explosion of fairy-tale figures, from brave princesses to magical creatures. Whether you're off to a special Book Week party, a carnival procession, or just transforming the kids' room into a fantasy world: a good costume makes all the difference.

From Princess Peach to Elsa: this year's trends

Looking around at parties and in the shops, I see a clear trend: the line between book characters, fairy tales, and gaming is blurring. Take the popularity of Princess Peach, for instance. Thanks to the Super Mario movie, it's not just kids but adults too who want to dress up as the iconic character. For the ladies wanting to put a playful spin on it, there's a wide range available: from a classic Princess Peach costume for adults to a sexy version with masquerade influences. And for the little ones? They'll shine in Super Bros outfits for girls, complete with tulle and pink.

And of course, the inevitable Elsa from Frozen can't be missed. The Book Week 2026 Elsa dresses are flying off the shelves, especially those intense, bright pink shades that the little ones absolutely love. Whether you opt for a Snow Queen look or a Cinderella ball gown, tulle dresses and flower girl dresses are the way to stand out this year. The good witch from modern fairy-tale books is also popular: think flowing fabrics, glitter, and a touch of magic. For every type of fairy-tale princess, there's a theme party costume to be found, whether it's for Children's Day, Christmas, or just a masquerade.

Putting kids centre stage: comfort and fun

For the very little ones, it's all about freedom of movement and a touch of playful spirit. Book Week 2026 for girls offers a wealth of possibilities. I see many parents opting for a Snow Queen princess doll dress or a tutu in a fun style. Those intense pink outfits are everywhere! And the best part is, these dresses can often be worn beyond carnival, for example at a wedding as a flower girl or just at school during a fairy-tale day. The magical witch with a good heart is also popular: not scary, but friendly and imaginative. Combine that with a masquerade mask and you have an easy yet spectacular effect.

Heads up: roadworks happening near the festivities

Now that we're all getting excited about Book Week 2026 and the fantastic carnival costumes, there's one thing that could throw a spanner in the works: the road conditions. Anyone heading into town this coming weekend for a book launch or a fancy dress party needs to be prepared for significant traffic disruption. From reliable sources around Rijkswaterstaat, I hear that the A58 will be closed for four weekends in a row between Tilburg and Eindhoven. From Friday evening until Monday morning, you won't be able to get through. The Den Haag - Amsterdam route is also frequently shut. It's really worth paying attention, because you don't want your little princess crying in the car because she's missing the party, do you?

My tip: check the current situation beforehand. The ANWB and Rijkswaterstaat have good apps, but you can also hear exactly where the jams are on local radio. Perhaps plan an alternative route or just leave an hour earlier. That way, you're guaranteed a stress-free day where you can finally show off your children's cosplay or that beautiful Elsa dress to everyone.

• A58 Tilburg - Eindhoven: Closed for four consecutive weekends due to roadworks.
• Den Haag - Amsterdam: Regular closures; keep an eye on diversions.
• Brabant: Check the live traffic situation via regional channels.

In short, Book Week 2026 will undoubtedly be a big celebration full of magic, literature, and wonderful costumes. Whether you're going as Princess Peach, the Snow Queen, or that kind witch from the children's book, just make sure you leave on time. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there, among the books and the glittery dresses. See you then!