Romance & Romantasy: Must-Attend Events for Readers and Writers

Updated January 22, 2026

Romance and Romantasy have become cultural powerhouses, captivating millions of readers and redefining the modern book scene. With bestsellers topping the charts, and viral recommendations sweeping across social media, the demand for deeper emotional and immersive stories is at an all-time high. 

This explosion in popularity has given rise to a new wave of themed events where fans and authors come together to celebrate their love of LOVE at book festivals, signing events, reader conventions, lavish romance balls, and galas. Many of these events offer fun-filled adventures that blend escapism, cosplay, and community, making them essential destinations for any romance enthusiast in the year ahead.

They are the ideal place for self-published authors to network, promote their books and their brand, and connect with readers in the vibrant romance and romantasy community. We wanted to give you the lowdown on events coming to a location near you. They run the gamut from sweet romance to 18+ Romantasy, from smaller author signings to extravagant balls—just pick and choose the ones that are right for you.  

So start planning, grab your books and themed merchandise, and get ready for a new adventure.

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JANUARY

•United States •

FLORIDA

January 31 - February 1: Feel the Heat Romance Book Bash—Orlando

• • Ready for a sizzling day filled with your favorite romance authors? Whether you're into sweet romance or steamy love tales, this event has something for everyone. Meet and mingle with writers, discover new books, and maybe even find a new book boyfriend. For all ages.

NEW JERSEY

January 30-February 5: Throne of Starlight Ball—Parsippany

• • As the realms of Fae gather in a celebration of opulence, power, and hidden desires—the fate of the Night Court hanging in the balance—every attendee must decide where their loyalties lie and what they are willing to risk for power, glory, and love. For ages 18+.

NORTH CAROLINA

January 30-31: Persephone's Grove: A Midwinter Ball—Charlotte

• • Not just a book ball venue—but a portal to another world. Step inside Crowe Mansion, where a velvet-draped ballroom and moonlit terrace await. Built in 1912 and brimming with stories, this historic estate will set the stage for a night of myth, magic, and romance. For ages 21+.

FEBRUARY

ARIZONA

February 13-14: Wild & Windy Phoenix—Phoenix

• • Wild & Windy Book Events are romance book conventions hosted annually in by Nicole Huffman & Michelle Mankin. A portion of proceeds from each event are donated to the food banks in the cities where the events are held. Event is 18+.

CALIFORNIA

February 13-15: LoveLitCon—San Diego

• • Meet amazing authors face to face, get books signed, hear unknown revelations at panels, discover new and rising voice, peruse bookish merch—all alongside romance lovers. Enjoy a safe and accessible environment, padded schedules with downtime, space to take breaks when needed, plus beautiful weather and views to complement great books. 
    

February 22: Boutique Book Faire: Romance Reader Edition 2026—Hawthorne

• • Calling all SoCal book lovers & romance readers! Join us once again for our Boutique Book Fair for a dreamy day of romance authors, bookish vendors, and all the page-turning feels. Authors include Melissa de la Cruz, Mallory Marlowe, Christine Riccio, and more.

February 26-28: Romantasy BookCon—Los Angeles

• • Calling all book dragons to embark on a magical weekend that brings together passionate readers, incredible authors, and bookish vendors. Embrace your inner darkness and getting ready for a weekend unlike any other. Ages 18+ for daytime events, and 21+ for evening events.

FLORIDA

February 19-22: Coastal Magic Convention—Daytona Beach

• • A casual, beachside reader weekend celebrating the magic of stories and storytellers, with a focus on creating opportunities for authors and readers to mingle, have bookish fun, and create amazing memories. 50+ featured authors. For attendees under 18, parental or legal guardian permission is required.

February 27-March 4: Love Lit Cruise 2026—Miami

• • A one-of-a-kind boutique romance book convention on a luxury cruise ship, where readers and authors come together for an intimate, immersive, and unforgettable adventure. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s the ultimate escape for romance readers! A five-night, intimate voyage aboard Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady, blending the magic of books with the luxury of cruising. For ages 18+.

GEORGIA

February 13-15: Love Y'all Romance Book Fest—Decatur

• • What started as friends talking about their favorite books ended up becoming an annual celebration of romance for all, featuring 80 authors, two days of panels and signings, and exclusive author experiences. For all ages.

MISSOURI

February 7: Flirty in Kansas City—Kansas City

• • An annual book signing and meet-and-greet for romance and erotica authors. Meet your favorite authors and discover new books. For all ages, but some available content may be for mature audiences.

NEVADA

February 28-March 1: Boozy Book Tour: Pajama Jammy Jam—Las Vegas

• • A book signing and melanin ball providing authors and readers with a new take on literary events. BBT is a more personable, intimate setting; showcasing an amazing variety of Indie Authors. Giving the collective a revamped experience when it comes to book signings, meet & greets, and spirit & wine tastings.

• International •

AUSTRALIA

February 7: Meet Me in the Mountains 2026—Penrith NSW

• • Come and meet your favorite authors and maybe even find some new faves. Over 70 authors and vendors to choose from spanning the romantasy, dark romance, rom com, and paranormal genres. For ages 18+.

February 12: All You Need is Love! Romance Panel Evening—Sydney

• • Dymocks Books and Shae Winter present a fun-filled Valentine’s evening celebrating love, laughter, and a little bit of romance! Meet local romance authors Amy Andrews, Josh Hortinela, Karina May, Leesa Ronald, and Natalie Murray, as they share stories, answer your burning questions, and play some fun games.

MARCH

• United States •

ARKANSAS

March 21: Authors Rocking Little Rock—Little Rock

• • Spend the day with more than 80 of your favorite authors from all genres, and discover some new ones! 

LOUISIANA

March 13-15: Shadows & Seduction Dark Romance Ball—New Orleans

• • An event dedicated to spicy romance created by spicy romance lovers. Enjoy a weekend celebrating the books and authors that brought our darkest fantasies to light and introduced things we never thought we’d love. Attendees must be 18+ to attend author signing and 21+ to attend the ball.

MARYLAND

March 10-12: Charm City Romanticon—Ellicot City

• • Spend a weekend with indie romance authors, narrators and readers. Charm City Romanticon is a small, intimate, exclusive event that puts readers in the same room as their Romancelandia favorites. Experience informative panel sessions, a book signing, and a celebratory banquet PJ party, with the additional opportunity to attend engaging industry-based workshops on Sunday.

MINNESOTA

March 13-15: Sports Romance Con 2026—Bloomington

• • A three-day fan convention for sports romance readers and authors featuring a welcome party, panels, a signing hall, and a vendor hall, with different ticket options available for full weekend, Saturday only, or Sunday only access. An 18+ event. 

NORTH CAROLINA

March 27-29: Tempted & Tantalizing—Raleigh

• • Join over 70 authors, narrators, and models from all over the country as they make their way south to share their books with avid romance readers. Aside from the main signing on Saturday, March 28th, there are mini events on Friday, March 27th, and Sunday, March 29th.

RHODE ISLAND

March 7: Bristol Romance Con: Ballrooms & Beyond—Bristol

• • Celebrate the genre of Historical Romance! Join bestselling authors for a full day of Historical Romance in an 1810 mansion. All panels are free to attend, but space is limited and registration is required. The cocktail party in the Mansion is a ticketed event with an additional cost.

TENNESSEE

March 27-28: Lust in Pigeon Forge—Pigeon Forge

• • Do you love the mountains and books? Come join the 25-30 authors and vendors that are anxiously waiting to get you to fall in love with their masterpieces! Lust in Pigeon Forge is the 3rd Lust location, and this is the best place to come to meet authors, enjoy relaxation, and see some of the best sights out there! 

TEXAS

March 6-8: The Dreamers & Readers Festival—Dallas

• • From the grandeur of the Dreamers & Readers Expo (a 200+ expo of authors and bookish vendors) to the whimsy of fantasy balls including The Dreamers & Readers Ball, The Fantastique Starfall Ball™, and the Mythical Creatures Masquerade, the possibilities are as vast. For ages 18+.

March 20-22: Lust in the Lowcountry Romancecon—Charleston

• • A celebration of readers, writers, and all things romance, taking place in the heart of the sexiest city in the Southeast. Includes a Romantasy Ball with live performances and a book signing event. For ages 18+.

March 21: Holidays with the Belles 2026—Allen

• • A Southern Belle Book Event—Join 70 of your favorite romance authors for a single-day book signing filled to the brim with tried and true returning authors, new-to-us attending authors, and literary vendors. Contact event organizers for any age restrictions.

VIRGINIA
March 7-8: Sinful Signings—Roanoke

• • A sinfully fun weekend full of bookish debauchery! Two days of author signings and opportunities to meet some of your favorite Booktok creators. Some of your favorite narrators will be in attendance, and there'll be bookish vendors onsite with their wares. 

WASHINGTON, D.C.

March 14: Secrets & Sins Book Signing—D.C.        

• • A scandalous book signing event full of networking, bookish fun, and connecting with readers who are passionate about romance and scandalous stories. For all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

• International •

AUSTRALIA

March 21-22 and March 28-29: A Romantic Rendevouz 2026

• • These multi-city, multi-author signing events are returning in 2026, with special guests Sarina Bowen and Cathryn Hein:
    • Brisbane—Saturday 21 March 2026 (Royal on the Park, 152 Alice Street, Brisbane)
    • Sydney—Sunday 22 March 2026 (Rydges Sydney Central, 28 Albion Street, Surry Hills)
    • Melbourne—Saturday 28 March 2026 (Novotel Preston, 215 Bell Street, Preston)
    • Perth—Sunday 29 March 2026 (Pagoda Resort and Spa, 112 Melville Parade, Como)

CANADA

March 21: Bonded and Enchanted—Victoria, BC

• • Vancouver Island's romance and fantasy themed convention and home ofthe Amethyst Ball. Join us for a gathering of fellow book enthusiasts. Discover new books, meet authors, and engage in lively discussions about all things romance. Whether you're a fan of mythical creatures, epic love stories, or enchanting worlds, this event is perfect for you. Let's bond over our shared love for romance and fantasy at this enchanting convention!

NEW ZEALAND

March 13-14: A Romantic Adventure 2026—Christchurch

• A romance-focused book signing event, featuring more than 100 romance authors and vendors, with opportunities for attendees to meet authors, browse books, and purchase exclusive editions. For all ages.

APRIL

•United States •

ARKANSAS

April 11-12: TropiCon™ Book Lovers Festival—Hot Springs

• • Meet and mingle with 75 book-signing authors and vendors. Score autographed books, swag, and more from bestselling authors. Event location is in a historic hotel with character in a town famous for its mobsters and bathhouses. For all ages.

FLORIDA

April 17-20: Spellbound at Sea—Miami

• • Join the ultimate fantasy book cruise, Spellbound at Sea! Sail onboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, for a 3-night enchanting getaway to the Bahamas! Enjoy immersive themed parties and bookish events such as a fantasy ball, trivia, craft classes, and karaoke.

MICHIGAN

April 11-12: Dreaming Dirty in Michigan—Ann Arbor

• • Authors and readers from all over the country will be gathering to meet and share their imagination with Michigan. Thousands of books to choose, from over 100 authors that are excited to meet you! Three separate groups of authors, 1 event, 1 ticket. No age restrictions.

MINNESOTA 

March 13-15: Sports Romance Con—Minneapolis

• • Spend the day meeting your favorite authors, shopping exclusive merch, and reveling in all things sporty, steamy, and swoony. Expect a full schedule of bookish fun and romance-forward vibes from start to finish. Under 18 welcome with parent or legal guardian.

NEW YORK

April 18: Romance in CNY—Utica

• • This event brings together some of the best romance authors, passionate readers, and a variety of exciting vendors. It’s the ultimate gathering for anyone who enjoys the magic of a good romance novel, as well as the unique, creative world that surrounds it. 

April 18-19: BookCon™—New York City

• • Where storytelling and pop culture collide! Step into a weekend where stories come alive and fantasy meets reality. Where meeting your favorite author is just the beginning of your adventure. From intimate author chats and immersive experiences to book swaps that feel like treasure hunts, we're building an event for lovers of storytelling in all its forms.

NORTH CAROLINA

April 18: Vintage Fairytale Ball—Asheville

• • Lose yourself in an evening of music, storytelling, and immersive magic, where every detail is designed to transport you to another era. This ball invites you to adorn yourself in elegant vintage or fairytale-inspired attire and dance beneath chandeliers as the echoes of forgotten tales fill the air. For ages 18+.

TEXAS

April 10-12: Kink & Ink Books & Tattoos—Dallas

• • A weekend event celebrating the fusion of literature, body art, and a touch of the unconventional. Whether you're a book lover, tattoo enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, this event has something for everyone. For ages 18+.

UTAH

April 17-18: Romance Out West—Sandy

• • Brings together authors, vendors, and readers who share a love for romance in all its forms—sweet, spicy, and everything in between. No matter the subgenre, if it’s romance, it has a place here. Their mission is simple: to create a warm, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome to connect, discover, and celebrate love stories.

WASHINGTON

April 11-12: Wicked Readers 2026—Tacoma

• • A dark romance signing event presented by Romantika Designs and Naughty Nerd Author Services. Featuring authors, models, narrators, and influencers. This is an 18+ event due to the dark theme of the books and vendors. Concessions will be made for infants/toddlers/nursing mothers.

April 18-19: Lore & Luster Fantasy & Romance Con—Tacoma

• • A fantasy and romance-themed bookish market and fan experience celebrating all things fantasy, romance, and magic. This two-day immersive event features author signings, curated vendors, fandom-inspired goods, panel discussions, giveaways, and a showstopping Romantasy Ball.

•International•

AUSTRALIA

April 18: A Thousand Lives Indie Book Convention—Melbourne

• • This is a romance specific signing event, featuring Indie Authors. "The A Thousand Lives Masquerade Ball" in the evening, at the conclusion the signing event, will be held in a separate location. For ages 16+, but any attendees between 16 and 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian

CANADA 

April 10-11: Rose City Romance—Windsor, Ontario

• • Celebrating the magic of love stories—from sweet to spicy, historical to contemporary, and everything in between. Whether you’re there to meet your favourite authors, find your next great read, or immerse yourself in workshops and events designed to fuel your passion, Rose City Romance welcomes you with open arms.

April 18: Pages & Pleasures Romance Book Fair—Kitchener, Ontario

• • Explore the second annual Pages and Pleasures Kitchener event with us! 2025 was filled with over 70 authors and specialty vendors. Thousands of people came and experienced love, romance, and a little naughtiness. We're proud supporters of everything Romance. 

MAY

COLORADO

May 29-30: Fantastique Starfall Ball™ 2026 CO—Larkspur

• • Winnow away to the mountains of Colorado for a two-day, inclusive bookish celebration themed around favorite fantasy books. Along with the festival, there will be an enchanting ball with food, an open bar, stunning entertainment, dancing under the stars, and special effects/décor that will have you feeling a part of the magical world of high fae. For ages 18+.

IOWA

May 16: Frisky in the Field—Sheldon

• • A charity event raising money for Awakening Grace, this event offers opportunities for readers to meet their favorite authors, purchase books, get them signed, and participate in after-parties. No age limit to attend, but subject matter is recommended for mature audiences.

MASSACHUSETTS

May 30: Potions & Pages Book Signing—Peabody

• • A spellbinding day filled with books, authors, bookish vendors, and making memories. Meet favorite authors, get books signed, and mingle with fellow book lovers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of magic and books. For all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

PENNSYLVANIA

May 22-24: Just Another Bookish Ball—Pittsburgh

• • A fantasy-themed bookish event that not only will have fantasy authors, but also dressing up as your favorite book characters (whether or not that is fantasy) is encouraged. Must be 18+ to attend the Fantasy Flea Market, and 21+ to attend the Fairy Festival.

May 26: Kiss & Tale: An Indie Romance Book Signing—Philadelphia

• • Designed to be smaller and more personal than large-scale book conventions, Kiss & Tale events foster a closer interaction between authors and readers. Enjoy snacks while getting book signed and mingling with other book lovers. Check with event organizers for any age restrictions.

• International •

AUSTRALIA

May 23: A Romantic Affair—Hindmarsh

• • Presented by The First Chapter Bookshop, A Romantic Affair brings together over 100 authors and passionate vendors from around the world for one unforgettable day. Whether you're a diehard dark romance reader or a happily-ever-after-junkie, don’t miss this celebration of love, stories, and "swoon worthy" moments.

UNITED KINGDOM

May 23-24: Steam Trains and FairyTales—Derbyshire

• • A Steampunk fairytale weekend with a difference - Steam Trains! The Butterley Station and Swanwick Junction locations at the Midland Railway Trust offer the most amazing playground for this fabulous event. On the green at Swanwick, you'll find a curated Steampunk market with a few extra Steampunk exhibits added amongst the simply enormous number of permanent features. There will also be a market and various characters to interact with as well as droids and other impromptu performances. For all ages, but children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

JUNE

GEORGIA

June 27: Romance Atlanta Writers and Readers—Columbus

• • Mingle with talented authors, participate in engaging discussions, and explore a wide range of romantic literary works. Whether you're a fan of historical romance, paranormal love stories, or contemporary relationships, this event promises something for everyone. Attendees must be 18+.

NORTH CAROLINA

June 28: Romance Era Experience 2026—Charlotte

• • An author signing event that genuinely connects romance authors and readers for an amazing, memorable experience. The theme for 2026 is “Queens of Authenticity” (real art by real people). Showcasing artists who authentically bring a book to life— authors, narrators, designers, character artists, and such. Event(s) may include explicit adult content. (18+ or adult supervision recommended.) 

WASHINGTON

June 12-13: Hot & Steamy in the PNW—Vancouver

• • Join favorite authors for a day packed with swoony reads, spicy surprises, and unforgettable moments. Then, grab your favorite pajamas to enjoy a night filled with fun, good company, and games. For ages 18+.

June 13: Emerald City Romance Writers—Seattle

• • Join your favorite swoon-worthy authors for a full day of book signings, spicy stories, flash tattoos, flirty fun, and all the heart-eye vibes you can handle. Whether you're into slow burns, steamy scenes, or second-chance love, this event is your perfect match. 

WASHINGTON DC

June 5-6: Imaginarium Book Festival—Washington DC

• • IBF brings together those who share a love for fantastical story-telling. Whether you're new to fantasy, sci-fi, and paranormal genres, or a long-time fan, you're sure to find a book here that ignites your imagination.

JULY

ARKANSAS

July 16-19: Rebels & Realms Book Convention—Rogers

• • An 18+ event for those who love fantasy, romantasy, and dark romance. Come meet your favorite authors, narrators, and bookish influencers and explore all the creative merch from local and nationwide vendors.

CONNECTICUT

July 24-25: RomantiConn—Trumbbull

• • A fun-filled romance author signing event brought to you by Kitty Berry Books. Dedicated to inclusivity, RomantiConn showcases a wide variety of romance subgenres and celebrates diverse backgrounds and orientations. The event supports all authors—from emerging voices to seasoned bestsellers, both independently and traditionally published, from around the world. All ages allowed, but be mindful that not all tables will be appropriate for all ages.

FLORIDA

July 23-26: Enchanted: Live the Fantasy—Orlando

• • Your story is yours to write—select your path through immersive experiences and activities across the weekend. Features fantasy classes and workshops, secret quests, and a gaming hall. And, as the stars align and the realms unite, the grand Enchanted Fantasy Ball awaits. A night of music, magic, and wonder, where dreams take form, and fantasy becomes reality. For ages 21+.

ILLINOIS

July 11: Writers on the River—East Peoria

• • This public event has over 100 romance authors in one room, including New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers. Chat with them, get selfies together, or buy a signed book. All ages welcome as long as tickets are available. The after party is for ages 21+. 

NEW MEXICO

July 15-18: Romance Writers of America Annual Conference—Albuquerque

• • Readers and writers: Join RWA for inspiring workshops and insider access sessions, plus pitch appointments with agents and editors actively acquiring romance manuscripts. Features author book signings open to the public and a vendor marketplace, July 16-18.

OKLAHOMA

July 31: RomanceLahoma—Oklahoma City

PENNSYLVANIA

July 25: Tales as Dark as Time—Grantville

• • An indie author book signing event featuring 90 authors and vendors with a Wicked Fairytale theme and an Epic PJ Afterparty at the Hollywood Casino. Check with event organizers for any age restrictions.

TENNESSEE

July 31-August 1: Forbidden Love: A Fantasy Book Event—Nashville

• • An immersive fantasy book convention designed for readers who crave magic, mischief, and a touch of danger. Hosted by Tea & Tropes, this two-day event brings together bestselling authors, beloved book influencers, and passionate fans for a weekend of panels, signings, shopping, and unforgettable themed experiences.

TEXAS

July 25: Kiss & Tell 2026—Dallas

• • An annual event owned by Texas Literary Voices with the goal of bringing readers together to meet some of their favorite authors and get to know new-to-them authors as well. Attending authors include Becca Jameson, Jenna Hartley, Livy Hart, Ruby Dixon, and many many more. 

AUGUST

ILLINOIS

August 27-30: Inked & Enchanted—Chicago

• • Escape into a realm of Romantasy and tattoos at this weekend event. Meet and greet with a diverse lineup of romance authors and narrators. Get your favorite books signed, hear about their latest works, and immerse yourself in the world of literature. For ages 18+.

MASSACHUSETTS

August 14-16: Sinners & Stardust—Boston

• • A dark romance themed event, bringing together fans, authors, and creators for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned spicy romance fan or new to the genre, Boston is the perfect place to start a thrilling adventure. For ages 18+.

OKLAHOMA

August 1: Red Dirt Romance Book Event—Oklahoma City

• • Presented by RomanceLahoma: Come meet bestselling romance authors from around the United States at Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown. From sweet love stories to steamy reads, this event has something for everyone.

TENNESSEE

August 1: Rockin' Romance Readers—Alcoa

SEPTEMBER

CALIFORNIA

September 17-19: Books, Gowns, & Crowns—San Diego

• • Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the pages of your favorite book? This event is your chance to do just that—a weekend where fantasy becomes reality, beloved stories come alive around you, and you're surrounded by people who love them just as much as you do.

FLORIDA

September 11-12: FanGrrrl Romance Recs Premiere Book Signing Event—Orlando

• • A two-day book signing event with a formal ball/after-party at Disney Springs® resort area. The event includes author panels, general admission book signings, a cocktail hour, a red carpet event, and a Hollywood Glam Ball. Check with organizers for any age restrictions.

OCTOBER

• United States •

ILLINOIS

October 30-31: Romance Readers & Writers Experience—Peoria

• • An unparalleled celebration of romance literature, where industry leaders, iconic authors, and passionate readers converge to honor the past, shape the future, and elevate the art of romance writing. Experience four days of engaging activities, including book signings, author meet and greets, photo ops, vendor shopping, surprise celebrity guests, live performances, and more. 

MASSACHUSETTS

October 1-11: Getting Witchy with It 2026—Salem

• • Join hundreds of amazing authors in one place at the same time, at this event focused on various genres, including romance, dark mafia romance, and paranormal fiction, with a strong emphasis on author appearances and book signings. No age limit to attend, but some subject matter is recommended for mature audiences.

TEXAS

October 4-6: The Traveling Bookshelf—Grand Prairie

• • The Traveling Bookshelf is committed to offering a mix of established and emerging authors as well as a variety of genres, most under the romance umbrella. The event is a positive, stress-free environment dedicated to bringing together authors and readers. Bring on the fun, fellowship, and flamingos.

We'll be updating this list often, so be sure to come back and see what's been added. 

Don't miss our Ultimate List of Book Fairs, Festivals, and Conferences article, covering more than just the romance and romantasy genres!