Mike Smith
Here’s everything you need to know about Canada Reads 2026, including when it starts, who’s competing, and how to watch it live or on demand.
How to Watch Canada Reads 2026 Outside Canada on CBC Gem
Follow these steps:
- Subscribe to NordVPN
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a Canada-based server.
- Open CBC Gem website, then login or sign up for a new account.
- You are all set to watch Canada Reads online from anywhere!
What is Canada Reads About
Canada Reads is a live literary debate event that brings together five well-known Canadian personalities to champion one book they believe everyone should read. Over four days, each contender defends their chosen title while the others vote one book off each day until a single winner remains. The event is built around discussion, storytelling, and exploring different perspectives through books that reflect Canadian voices and experiences.
When and What Time Does Canada Reads Start?
Canada Reads 2026 begins on April 13, 2026, and is broadcast across CBC platforms including CBC Gem and YouTube. The debates start live each day at 10:05 a.m. ET, with additional broadcasts later on TV and radio. New debates air daily through April 16, 2026.
Canada Reads 2026 Schedule
Here is the daily schedule for the 2026 debates:
- Day 1 – Premiere date: April 13, 2026
- Day 2 – Premiere date: April 14, 2026
- Day 3 – Premiere date: April 15, 2026
- Final Day – Premiere date: April 16, 2026
Canada Reads 2026 Contenders
Here are the five books and champions competing this year:
- Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers as Champion of A Minor Chorus
- Steve “Dangle” Glynn as Champion of Searching for Terry Punchout
- Tegan Quin as Champion of The Cure for Drowning
- Josh Dela Cruz as Champion of Foe
- Morgann Book as Champion of It’s Different This Time
Who is Hosting Canada Reads 2026?
Ali Hassan leads the discussions, guiding the debates and keeping the conversation flowing throughout the event.
Where to Watch Canada Reads 2026 in Canada
You can watch Canada Reads 2026 live on CBC Gem, CBC TV, or stream it online through the CBC Books website. The debates are also available to stream on YouTube and CBC Listen.
Where to Watch Canada Reads 2026 in the US
Viewers in the United States can stream Canada Reads 2026 live on YouTube through the official CBC Books channel. The livestream is accessible globally.
Can You Watch Canada Reads Online for Free?
Yes, Canada Reads 2026 is available to watch for free through CBC Gem and the official YouTube livestream. You can create a free account on CBC Gem to access the stream, while YouTube allows instant viewing without any subscription
Is Canada Reads Suitable for All Ages?
Yes, Canada Reads is suitable for general audiences and is designed for a broad age group, typically rated for all viewers interested in books and discussion. The debates may include mature themes depending on the books being discussed, such as social issues or personal experiences.
Where Can I Watch Replays of Canada Reads?
You can watch full replays of Canada Reads 2026 on CBC Gem shortly after each live broadcast. The episodes are also uploaded to YouTube and available on CBC platforms for on-demand streaming.
On What Devices Can You Watch CBC Gem?
You can stream CBC Gem on a wide range of devices:
| Device Type | Supported Platforms |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Samsung, LG Smart TVs |
| Streaming Devices | Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV |
| Mobile Devices | iOS, Android smartphones and tablets |
| Web Browsers | Chrome, Safari, Edge, Firefox |
| Gaming Consoles | Xbox (select models) |
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