The Bologna Children’s Book Fair ended its 2018 run with an increase in the number of exhibitors as well as a rise in overall attendance.

According to organizers, the fair, which ran from March 26 to 29, attracted 1,390 exhibitors, an increase of 8.6% over 2017. The fair’s official attendance was 27,642 people, an increase of 3% from 2017. Of those, 12,403 were from outside Italy, representing a 6% increase over 2017; exhibitors and participants came from 77 countries.

Renovations to two halls on the fairgrounds meant that hundreds of exhibitors had to move from their traditional booth spaces, but this appeared to have caused little trouble. Organizers expect that exhibitors will return to their traditional locations next year.

The dates for the 2019 event are March 25 to 28. Switzerland will serve as the Guest of Honor.