The Ultimate List of Book Fairs, Festivals, and Conferences for 2026

Updated: December 23, 2025

There are tons of book-related events coming up this year, and we want to keep you up to date on when and where you can find them! Book festivals can be extremely beneficial for self-published authors aiming to broaden their audience, connect with experts in the industry, and gain knowledge about the current publishing landscape.

Below, you'll find a list of upcoming festivals and events (big and small, national and international) scheduled for 2026, organized by date and state, that celebrate all things books! We'll be updating this list often, so be sure to come back and see what's been added. 

Consider attending an event in your area to maximize visibility of both you and your book.

*Disclaimer: Some of the dates for these events are subject to change as they approach. Please be sure to check the links to verify exact dates.

U.S. BOOK FESTIVALS & EVENTS

JANUARY

Virtual

January 18: Biographers International Organization (BIO) Biography Lab

• • Features panels on current issues in biography and the craft of biography, including discussions on building suspense, getting into print, Black women's biography, and much more.

California

January 28-30: Rancho Mirage Writers' Fest—Rancho Mirage

• A world-class gathering of the finest writers who contribute to the intellectual vitality of their time. The City of Rancho Mirage welcomes 60 authors and 1,000 readers to the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. Jamie Kabler founded the festival in 2014, which has been described as “Coachella for the brain." Guests include Michael Connelly, Taylor Jenkins Reid, and Erik Larson.

Florida

 January 23-24: Sunshine State Book Festival—Gainesville

• • Authors from around Florida and the nation gather to talk about their writing, sell, and sign books. Includes a panel discussion, story time for kids, and more. It's recommended to check the Writers Alliance of Gainesville website closer to the event for the most up-to-date information.

January 24: Booksville Festival—Brooksville

• The festival celebrates all the ways literature touches our lives. From author readings, book sales, games, and activities based on beloved books, to character and spelling bee contests, there's something for everyone.

January 24: JAX Urban Book Festival—Jacksonville

• • Features author interviews, book signings, networking, kids’ activities with free books, and a silent auction. A one stop shop for the book enthusiast’s mind body and soul.

January 30-31: F.R.E.S.H. Book Film Festival—Daytona Beach

• • Books, Film, Authors, Workshops—We're still making literacy happen! The F.R.E.S.H. Film Festival is back at the Performing Arts Center at Bethune-Cookman University, celebrating its 10th year of highlighting outstanding independent films. Don’t miss this exciting milestone event! Fan favorite Booker T. Mattison returns to the F.R.E.S.H. stage for this special anniversary edition.

New Jersey

 January 16-19: Winter Poetry & Prose Getaway—Galloway

• • A participant-focused writers’ conference. Enjoy challenging and supportive workshops, insightful feedback, and an encouraging community. 

New Mexico

January 16-18: Albuquerque Comic Con—Albuquerque

• • New Mexico's premiere pop culture event, combining the brightest Comic and Media talent for the weekend. Organizers plan to make Albuquerque Comic Con 2026 even bigger, promising more celebrity guests, a larger cosplay contest, and new interactive experiences.

Texas

January 31: Bookworm Book Festival for Young Readers—Houston

• • A free bilingual book festival that celebrates emerging readers and those who create books for them. 

FEBRUARY

Alabama

February 26-28: Monroeville Literary Festival—Monroeville

• • Discover new authors, celebrate favorite writers and share great times with others who love Southern literature in the courtroom made famous by To Kill a Mockingbird.

February 27-28: Southern Voices 2026—Hoover

• • Southern Voices is a two-day festival celebrating art, music and writing. Sponsored by the Hoover Public Library, the first conference was held in 1993. The author’s conference is a one-day part of the festival celebrating the written word.

California

Feb 12-15: 22nd Annual San Francisco Writers Conference—San Francisco 

• • This will be the 22nd Celebration of Craft, Commerce and Community for all writers. Attendees will join with 100+ presenters and fellow writers from across the country and around the world at this year’s event. The SFWC events are consistently rated among the top writers’ conferences anywhere.

February 26-March 1: Left Coast Crime—San Francisco

• • An annual mystery convention sponsored by mystery fans, where readers, authors, critics, librarians, publishers, and other fans can gather to pursue their mutual interests.

February 26-28: Romantasy Book Con—Los Angeles

• • An immersive three-day event with 200+ authors and bookish vendors. Includes book signings, workshops, panels, custom cocktails, cosplay, raffles, a professional murder mystery performance, the signature Realm of Romantasy, and a Midnight Masquerade Ball.

Florida

February 5-8: F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival—Daytona Beach

• • More than 40 authors and editors convene to discuss their books and upcoming projects, and to share insight and wisdom related to their craft.The African American Children's Book Fair

February 28: Amelia Island Book Festival—Fernandina Beach

• • Through a series of public events featuring New York Times-bestselling authors, independent publishers, awards programs and workshops, this festival engages young people and adults in the joy of reading and writing. Featured authors in attendance at the festival include Claire Cook, Kate Quinn, and Mary Alice Monroe. 

Georgia

February 5-8: Savannah Book Festival—Savannah

• • A four-day festival in Savannah’s Historic District in celebration of the written word and its role in improving the human experience. Authors with a book published within the calendar year of the Festival are invited to give 30-minute solo presentations and host book signings. 

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

• • An annual celebration of romance, featuring 80 authors, two days of panels and signings, and exclusive author experiences. 

Hawaii

February 21: Oahu Indie Book Festival—Honolulu

• • Meet authors and illustrators, buy signed books, and win giveaways and swag bags with popular locally made items or gift certificates. Learn about writing or publishing with small group sessions and support local creators by attending this family friendly festival in Honululu.

February 21: 10th Annual A-A Family Book Expo & Read-In with Dr. Tonesa Welch—Detroit

• • A milestone celebration dedicated to proxsaoting, preserving, and sustaining literacy throughout Metro Detroit—while honoring the rich legacy of Black History. Meet and purchase autographed books from more than 40 talented independent authors, representing both adult and children’s literature across a wide range of genres. Discover powerful stories and valuable knowledge written through the lens of local and national Black voices.

Missouri

February 7: Flirty in Kansas City—Kansas City

• • An awesome collection of authors comes together for a signing event in genres such as Romantic Suspense, FBI/Source Romance, and Paranormal Romance. Hosted by Eden Rose and Virginia Johnson.

North Carolina

February 27-March 1: Asheville Christian Writers Conference—Asheville

• • The Asheville Christian Writers Conference is not a level of writing – it’s a battle cry. God calls us to step up and answer with the best work possible using the talents He has given. They are called together to focus their hearts on the task Christ assigned us… to strengthen their ties with one another and hone their craft of writing so they might effectively spread the Word of God through fiction and non-fiction books, screenplays, scripts, articles, and blogs.

Pennsylvania

February 7: African American Children's Book Fair—Philadelphia

• • One of the oldest and largest single-day events for children’s books in the country. It features nationally known bestselling authors and illustrators, many of whom have won some of the most prestigious literary awards.

February 23-26: 21st Annual Winter Institute (Wi2026)—Pittsburgh

• • ABA’s premiere four-day annual industry conference features educational programming for indie bookstores, as well as a pilot BIPOC bookseller pre-conference, keynote talks, author receptions, publisher parties, and dedicated time to network with booksellers, authors, and publishers from around the country. 

Tennessee

February 28: Appalachian WordFest —Sevierville

• • This one-day event brings together authors, young poets, publishers, and book lovers to celebrate the words and creativity emerging from the Appalachian Mountains. Look for new elements this year, like an expanded program with more opportunities to see your favorite presenters, small group round robins with authors, a live Poetry Slam competition, and podcasters.

Texas

February 13-16: Little BIPOC Book Fest—Houston

• • The Little Fest is for children ages 3 to 10. A celebration centered on underrepresented voices through a showcase of literary works that feature Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and other creatives of marginalized communities.

February 28: San Antonio African American Book Festival—San Antonio

• • A festival committed to celebrating the power of Black literature, reinforcing the fact that representation matters, and encouraging black economics.

February (TBD): Teen Bookfest by the Bay—Corpus Christi

• • A free festival open to the public featuring middle grade and young adult authors that supports, promotes, and celebrates the joy of reading.

Washington

February 26-March 1: Left Coast Crime 2026—Bellevue

• • An annual mystery convention sponsored by mystery fans, both readers and authors. LCC is held during the first third of the year in Western North America. Conventions have been held from Anchorage to El Paso, from Boulder to Hawaii, and various locations in between.

Arizona

March 13-14: Tucson Festival of Books—Tucson

• • A community-wide celebration of literature that aims to improve literacy rates among children and adults. Proceeds that remain after festival expenses are contributed to local literacy programs.

California

March 6-7: Charlotte S. Huck Children's Literature Festival—Redlands

• • Each year, the festival brings together educators, librarians, parents, students, authors, illustrators, editors, and those interested in children’s literature for a unique combination of full conference and small group sessions.  Speakers include Loren Long, Lisa Yee, Jason Chin, and Nikki Grimes.

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

• • Indulge your senses in an array of fantastical delights, from exquisite costumes to mesmerizing entertainment, as you traverse between realms and create memories that will last a lifetime. Join us at The Dreamers & Readers Festival for a weekend of unparalleled enchantment, where the magic of fantasy awaits at every turn.

March 7: Literary Women Festival of Authors—Long Beach

• • Organized by the Literary Women of Long Beach, the festival aims to make the work of contemporary women authors accessible to a wide audience, encourage new writers, celebrate the value of literature, and provide a cultural forum for the Long Beach community.

March 22: Pasadena Festival of Women Authors—Pasadena 

• • An annual literary event celebrating and showcasing the work of women writers. It features panel discussions, author talks, and book signings, providing a platform for both established and emerging female authors to connect with readers and fellow writers. 

March 28-30: WonderCon—Anaheim

• • Held by the Comic-Con International company, this event takes place every year and offers a variety of comics, original art, toys, and comics-related merchandise.

Florida

March 7: Southwest Florida Reading Festival—Fort Myers

• • A free event presented by the Lee County Library System to promote reading, literacy, and library services. Features author presentations, book signings, writing awards, and family fun.

 March 27-28: Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival—Venice

• • A unique event featuring writing and publishing workshops, and a special day when local and national authors sell and sign books in a beautiful downtown park.

March 28: Books by the Bay Fest—Pensacola

• • Celebrating the magic of storytelling and the written word, this is a haven for book enthusiasts of all ages featuring author signings, vendor booths, and presentations by bestselling, regional, and international authors.

Georgia

March 7: Dahlonega Literary Festival —Dahlonega

• • An annual celebration of books and authors held in historic downtown Dahlonega, featuring authors from a variety of fiction and nonfiction genres.

March 19: Revival: Lost Southern Voices 2026—Atlanta

• • This festival for readers, celebrates historically excluded, erased, or marginalized Southern voices. Invited presenters discuss Southern authors or artists whose works are out-of-print or otherwise do not receive the attention they deserve. This is the festival's 10-year anniversary. 

Iowa

March 26: DSM Book Festival—Des Moines

• • Connecting people who love books with people who create them, this festival features nationally acclaimed authors, book club-style discussions led by featured commentators, lively panel discussions, hands-on activities, and more.

Louisiana

 March 12-15: New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University—New Orleans

• • The festival aims to support and nurture a literary community by connecting readers of all ages and backgrounds with local and national authors through experiences that celebrate the power of literacy and ideas.

March 25-29: Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival—New Orleans

• • More than just a book festival, TWFest includes writing workshops, culinary and cocktail events, theatre events, music events, and a special focus on the history and culture of New Orleans.

March 27-29: 23rd Annual Saints & Sinners LGBTQ+ Literary Festival—New Orleans

• • The Saints and Sinners Literary Festival was founded in 2003 as a new initiative designed as an innovative way to reach the community with information about HIV/AIDS, particularly disseminating prevention messages via the writers, thinkers and spokespeople of the LGBTQ+ community. It was also formed to bring the LGBTQ+ literary community together to celebrate the literary arts.

Maryland

March 4-7: AWP Conference & Bookfair—Baltimore

• • An essential gathering for thousands of attendees to explore hundreds of events and exhibitors and immerse in four days of vital literary community and celebration. The keynote address will be provided by John Waters. 

Mississippi

March 25-27: The 32nd Oxford Conference for the Book—Michigan

• • Founded by the Center for the Study of Southern Culture and Square Books, the Oxford Conference for the Book brings together fiction and nonfiction writers, journalists, artists, poets, publishers, teachers, students, and literacy advocates for three days of conversation in the literary town of Michigan, Mississippi.

Nevada

March 26-29: Book Lovers Con—Las Vegas

• • Explore immersive reader experiences, mingle with beloved storytellers, and wander through realms of books and magic. Each day offers a morning mixer to spark new connections, a vibrant three-hour book fest where visitors can meet their favorite authors and uncover new literary gems, and unforgettable evening events that promise fun, flair, and a touch of magic.

New York

March 26-29: Woodstock Book Fest—Woodstock

• • An annual literary festival that celebrates books and storytelling and includes a variety of events including author talks, panel discussions, and the ever-popular "Bookfest Story Slam." 

North Carolina

March 21: Lexington Book Festival—Lexington

• • Connects readers and writers, aiming to develop a passion for literature in readers of all ages. It’s a nonprofit that celebrates the power of books and introduces fiction and nonfiction writers to the local community.

Pennsylvania

March 6-7: WCoNA 2026—Loretto

• • The Writers Conference of Northern Appalachia (WCoNA) brings together writers and literary enthusiasts to celebrate the region’s distinct body of work, strengthen craft, and inspire new writing that reflects and builds the canon of northern Appalachian literature. Keynote speaker is author and poet Todd Davis.

March 26-30: Lehigh Valley Book Festival—Lehigh

• • A celebration of books and the connections they forge—bringing published authors, illustrators, and readers through thoughtful, approachable, and inclusive programming.

Texas

March 6-7: North Texas Teen Book Festival—Irving

• • Features more than 42 panels throughout the day, in which favorite authors speak and answer audience questions. Each panel is thematically connected and loads of fun. Featured authors include Melissa de la Cruz, E. Lockhart, and Lydia Kang.

March 12: 41st Annual Texas Storytelling Festival—Denton

• • Join the masters of storytelling at the Texas Storytelling Festival in Denton, Texas. Held over four days, this festival brings together the best in storytelling for an oral tradition that can be enjoyed by all ages. Tales of all genres are shared, and various bands perform throughout the event

Virginia

March 7: Williamsburg Book Festival—Williamsburg

• • This annual family-friendly event brings together a dynamic mix of authors, poets, speakers, illustrators, and publishers from Virginia and beyond. The 2026 festival will be held at the William & Mary School of Education, offering a full day of literary discovery and connection.

March 14: Suffolk Authors Festival—Suffolk

• • Previously known as the Suffolk Mystery Authors Festival, this event gives attendees the opportunity to connect with their favorite bestselling authors and up-and-coming writers, attend meet and greets, and buy and sell books.

 March 20-22: Virginia Festival of the Book—Charlottesville

• • The festival brings together writers and readers from across the nation to emphasize and celebrate the Virginia Center for the Book’s mission and Virginia Humanities’ vision. Their focus remains on accessibility and diversity and features a range of events for all, with many free and open to the public.

APRIL

California

April 10: Children’s Literature Festival—Redlands

• • Brings together educators, librarians, parents, students, authors, illustrators, editors, and those interested in children’s literature for a unique combination of full conference and small group sessions.

April 18-19: Los Angeles Times Festival of Books—Los Angeles

• • Attracting approximately 160,000 people of all ages each year from Southern California and all around the country, this festival brings together the people who create books with the people who love to read them. Features include live bands, poetry readings, film screenings and artists creating their work on-site.

April 19: Sacramento Book Festival—Sacramento

• • This major literary event is now being held in a new venue, the Scottish Rite Masonic Center in East. This year’s festival will feature more big name authors and great prizes, along with multiple food trucks and outdoor seating. Hosting more than 200 authors, including Kim Stanley Robinson, Allison Brennan, James Rollins, Brenda Novak, and so many more.

Florida

April 11: BAM! Festival—West Palm Beach

• • • A book, art, and music festival held annually in downtown West Palm Beach, with the mission of providing a county-wide literary experience that brings together authors, teachers, students, families, and the community to share their love of books which will in turn promote literacy, encourage fellowship through education, exercise young minds with discussion, and inspire youth to reach high.

April 24-26: Word of South: A Festival of Literature and Music—Tallahassee

• • • A  unique blend of writers and musicians and an exploration of the relationship between literature and music. The festival showcases authors who write about music, musicians who also are authors, authors and musicians trading places, and everything in between.

Louisana

April 10-12: 10th Annual Books Along the Teche Literary Festival—New Iberia

• • A celebration of Southern writing and culture, this festival features authors, social events, panel discussions, and more. The popular annual gathering draws bibliophiles, arts enthusiasts, lovers of Louisiana cuisine and music.
    

Massachusetts

April 24-26: Newburyport Literary Festival—Newburyport

• • The Newburyport Literary Association, Inc., was founded in 2005 and hosts an annual Festival that brings together readers and writers for a weekend of readings, panel discussions, and other book-related events. Guests include Elin Hilderbrand and Hank Phillippi Ryan.

Michigan

April 18: Midwest Literary Walk—Chelsea

• • Lit Walk is a series of author interviews or presentations, all hosted on the same day and held at different venues within walking distance from one another. Intended to be a celebration of literature, reading, and the Chelsea community, featuring nationally recognized, high-caliber authors who speak right in historic downtown.  

Mississippi

April 8-10: Fay B. Kaigler Children's Book Festival—Hattiesburg

• • A celebration of excellence in children's and young adult literature, attended by more than 300 teachers and librarians each year. This year's Southern Miss Medallion winner is New York Tims-bestselling author Meg Medina. 

Missouri

April 16-19: Unbound Book Festival—Columbia

• • The Unbound Book Festival brings nationally and internationally recognized authors of world-class renown to Columbia to talk about their books, their work, and their lives. Keynote speaker is Min Jin Lee.

Nevada

April 23-25: Las Vegas Writers Conference—Las Vegas

• • Held each spring, the Las Vegas Writers Conference is dedicated to helping writers of all genres improve their craft, sharpen their business skills, and network with publishing professionals.

New Jersey

April 11: 15th Anniversary Liberty States Fiction Writers Conference—Hamilton

• • Two full days of activities to develop and promote writers of all levels of experience and every genre, as well as the opportunity to pitch works to prominent editors and literary agents. A separate Reader Track will offer those who love a good read the chance to meet authors in attendance and discuss their works.

New York

April 16-19: Hamptons Whodunit—East Hampton

• • Long Island's premiere mystery and true crime festival, where fact and fiction collide. Mingle with bestselling authors, legal experts, and forensic investigators as they unravel the secrets behind gripping crime stories. Experience panels, discussions, graveyard tours, escape rooms, and interactive evening events.

April 18-19: BookCon™—New York City

• • A two-day event where storytelling and pop culture collide. Step into a weekend 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. 

Ohio

April 18: Ohioana Book Festival—Columbus

• • Celebrate Ohio literature with author and illustrator panel discussions, family friendly activities, food trucks, a book fair, the chance to explore Ohioana Library, and more.

Oklahoma

April 30-May 2: Oklahoma Writers Federation Conference—Oklahoma City

• • Enjoy sessions with publishing experts who can provide career-advancing knowledge. Speakers on legal issues, short stories, writing for film, editing, literary agents and publicists. Space is also provided for attendees to sell their books.

Texas

April 8-10: San Antonio Book Festival—San Antonio

• • A free, open, and all-day event that unites readers and writers in a celebration of ideas, books, libraries, and literary culture. Features more than 110 national, regional, local, and emerging authors and welcoming more than 20,000 visitors. 

Washington

April 2-5: Norwescon—SeaTac

• • The Pacific Northwest’s premier science fiction and fantasy convention and one of the largest regional science fiction and fantasy conventions in the United States. While maintaining a primarily literary focus, Norwescon is large enough to provide a venue for many of the other aspects of science fiction and fantasy and the interests of its fans such as anime, costuming, art, gaming, and much, much more.

April 16-19: Chanticleer Authors Conference—Bellingham

• • An event unlike any other, hosting a wide variety of guest speakers and experts that wow experienced authors and help new authors take their publishing game to the next level.

April 17-19: Get Lit! Literary Art Festival—Spokane

• • The Get Lit! Festival began in 1998 as a one-day marathon of literary readings sponsored by Eastern Washington University Press and EWU’s Department of Creative Writing. Then The Spokesman-Review lovingly called it the little literary festival that could, and they were right. By 2004, the audience had swelled to 10,000 people from Spokane and the surrounding region.

MAY

VIRTUAL

May 6-8: The Nonfiction Writers Conference, 16th Annual Event

• • Since the Nonfiction Writers Conference began in 2010, their mission has always been to take the traditional writers’ conference experience and deliver it online. This allows more people to attend from around the world, saving valuable time and travel expenses. It also delivers powerful access to speakers during LIVE learning sessions with interactive Q&A.

Arizona

May 3: Arizona Author Book Festival—Phoenix

• • A fundraising event for SEEDs for Autism in Phoenix featuring more than 40 authors from throughout the state, published in a variety of genres for all ages. With inspiring presentations and book signings with bestselling authors, food trucks, live music, and more throughout the day! 100 percent of sponsorship funds, vendor fees, and author application fees will support SEEDs programs.

California

May 1-3: Sonoma Valley Authors Festival—Sonoma

• • A three-day weekend lecture series that brings people together to hear authors from a variety of liter­ary genres and speakers who discuss advances being made in science, technology, and medicine.

May 30-31: Bay Area Book Festival—Berkeley

• • Since 2015, Bay Area Book Festival has featured the boldest and most brilliant literary voices in conversations about issues that matter, with a focus on justice and diversity. 

Colorado

May 21-24: Mountain Words Literary Festival—Crested Butte

• • A multi-day literary celebration at 9,000 feet—featuring readings workshops, kids' events, parties, panel discussions, and more. Authors and presenters include Karen Russell, Elizabeth Gonzalez James, Paolo Bacigalupi, and many more. Writers and readers can immerse in workshops in fiction, research, investigative reporting, poetry, flash fiction, memoir, close reading, and others.
    

Georgia

May 1-2: Atlanta Writers Conference—Atlanta

• The 34th conference offers an in-person experience for all activities (critiques and pitches, a workshop, Q&A panels, free talks, an award ceremony, a book fair & more) and a virtual option for agent/editor meetings. 

Iowa

May 2: DSM Book Festival—Des Moines

• • The free, fun-filled event, presented by Beaverdale Books and Beaverdale Neighborhood Association, will be held at the Franklin Event Center. In addition to author programs, panels, workshops, and children’s activities, the event will offer attendees the opportunity to have their books signed, visit with publishers, and enjoy mingling with fellow book lovers.

Maryland

May 2: Annapolis Book Festival—Annapolis

New Jersey

May 2-3: A Day or Two of Wine, Romance, and More!—Columbia

• • Book and wine lovers unite for the largest book signing event of its type in New Jersey. Over 50 local authors (from NJ, NY, PA, MD, DC, and Delaware) representing a wide range of genres will be on hand for this unique event. Grab a glass of wine, take a stroll, meet the authors and peruse their books. There's something for everyone here! 

May 2-9: Montclair Literary Festival—Montclair

• • A community-wide event that aims to exchange ideas, inspire future literary works, and engage with different points of view. Working closely with the Montclair Public Library, Watchung Booksellers, and a team of local volunteers, the festival will also generate lasting connections between arts institutions, the schools, and the community, benefiting a broad cross-section of participants and attendees. 

New Mexico

May 15-17: Santa Fe Literary Festival—Santa Fe

• • The festival connects writers, readers, and thinkers—from around the world and close to home—in the celebration of words and story. It's not only a way to celebrate the city's deep literary history and diverse community of writers, but also an opportunity to foster a love of storytelling among young readers and writers. 

New York

May 2: 15th Annual Hudson Children’s Book Festival—Hudson

• • Held each year in the historic city of Hudson, this festival strives to create, sustain, and nurture a culture of literacy in partnership with their community and schools. A free, public event that fosters a love of reading as families meet and greet world-class creators of books for children of all ages.

Oregon

May 14-16: IBPA Publishing University—Portland

• • IBPA + PubWest present the premier educational event for independent book publishers.The annual, premier educational and networking conference by the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), bringing together independent, hybrid, and author-publishers for intensive sessions on all aspects of the book business, from marketing and distribution to editorial and legal, featuring expert speakers, learning labs, and awards.

Pennsylvania

May 30: Greater Pittsburgh Festival of Books—Pittsburgh

• • A free event that celebrates the city’s rich literary community and love of reading. Poets, authors, and readers gather at the Festival to pay tribute to Pittsburgh’s growing literary reputation. Features local and nationally-recognized authors, dozens of poets, children’s activities, bookstores, entertainment, publishers and more. 

JUNE

Washington, DC

June 5-6: Imaginarium Book Festival—Washington, DC

• • Featuring 80+ author and vendor exhibitors, book signings, special events, and much more. Special guests include Cassandra Clare, Chloe Gong, Hayley Dennings, Holly Black, Gabriella Buba, Shanora Williams, Scarlett St. Clair, Britney S. Lewis, Sarah Mughal Rana, and Danielle L. Jensen.

Massachusetts

June 11-14: Nantucket Book Festival—Nantucket

• • An annual celebration of the literary arts that brings together authors, book lovers, and storytellers. For one exciting weekend each June, the island of Nantucket transforms into a book lover's paradise, featuring a captivating lineup of author readings, panel discussions, writing workshops, and book signings. Almost all events are free and open to the public.

Texas

June 13: Sunbelt Book & Art Expo—Arlington

• • Where Stories, Art, and the Spirit of FIFA 2026 Unite! Enjoy book signings, conversations, panels, and presentations; meet visual artists and emerging artists and their artwork, and enjoy live art demonstrations. This event promises non-stop excitement and entertainment.

JULY

CALIFORNIA

July 31-August 2: National Book Club Conference—Atlanta

• • The 22nd-Annual NBCC, which has long been described as the premier annual literary event featuring Black authors and readers. It’s called “Literary Bliss” because the weekend is full of access to some of the most acclaimed talent and dynamic unheralded authors with avid readers and book club members from across the country. It’s a reader’s paradise and an author’s delight.

AUGUST

MICHIGAN

August 1: Black Authors Festival—Sag Harbor

• • An exciting in-person celebration proudly recognized by USA Today as one of the Top Best New Festivals in the Nation. Set in the heart of Sag Harbor, the Festival brings together both aspiring and established Black authors to honor the legacy and future of Black literary excellence. Theme for 2026: The Right to Write.

NEW YORK

August 29: Harlem Book Fair—Harlem

• • The celebrated annual event returns to the historic Adam Clayton Powell Jr State Office Building. This vibrant gathering showcases the rich literary contributions of African American authors and celebrates the culture and heritage of Harlem. Attendees can look forward to engaging book signings, enlightening panel discussions, and a variety of activities that highlight the power of storytelling.

TENNESSEE

August 1: Rockin' Romance Readers—Alcoa

• • Calling all romance lovers: your favorite bestselling romance authors are joining us for the 2026 Rockin’ Romance event, proudly hosted by Dark Syde Books & Rockin’ Romance Readers. From contemporary to MC, rock star to dark romance, taboo to paranormal…if you like to read it, we’ll have an author who writes it!

SEPTEMBER

CALIFORNIA

September 20: Orange County Children's Book Festival—Costa Mesa 

• • On the campus of Orange Coast College, meet and get autographs from some of your favorite superstar authors and illustrators. Enjoy professional storytellers, family-friendly entertainment, free admission and parking, and so much more.

International Book Festivals & Events

JANUARY

Australia

January 18: Big Book Energy Indie Book Convention—Glenelg

• • Come explore Partridge house and it's beautiful interior while meeting some awesome indie authors and businesses. Each ticket comes with an exclusive canvas bag filled with bookmarks/business cards from authors and businesses across Australia.

January 31: ERA2026 Fantasy & Romance Event—Melbourne

• • Wander through a realm of stories with author signings and bookish stalls to explore. Join the artists’ panel, attend the self-publishing workshop, create your own signature scent, and just enjoy being among fellow fantasy and romance readers.

Canada

January 16-18: North Island Writers Conference—Courtenay, BC

• • Co-hosted by the Comox Valley Writers Society and North Island College, the conference features a variety of workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for writers of all levels.

Egypt

January 24-February 6: Cairo International Book Fair—Cairo

• • Organized by the Egyptian General Book Organization, this iconic event gathers book lovers, authors, and publishers from around the globe to celebrate the written word.

France

 January 29-February 1: Angoulême International Comic Books Festival—Angouleme

• • Featuring workshops, master classes, meetings, and professional discussions, the festival’s events and the various exhibitions attract, each year, thousands of amateurs as well as comic-arts publishers and distributors, producers, authors, and agents.

India

January 10-18: New Delhi World Book Fair—New Delhi

• • Offers exhibitors a unique opportunity for business with this growing industry. It’s also an ideal venue for promoting titles, co-publication arrangements, and trade, opening a gateway to the publishing and intellectual world of India.

January 15-19: Jaipur Literature Festival—Jaipur

• • Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere, filled with inspiring talks, captivating performances, and enriching workshops. Discover the latest literary trends, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and enjoy mesmerizing musical performances that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Jaipur.

• • Set to attract an audience of publishers, authors, literary agents, educators, librarians, researchers, students, illustrators, and aspiring writers from around the world. Features a diverse range of activities such as conferences, panel discussions, workshops, and more.

January 22-February 3: Kolkata Book Fair—Kolkata

• • Asia's largest literary event brings together global literature and rich cultural experiences to celebrate books, authors, and diverse cultural activities in Kolkata.

Turkey

January 10-18: Çukurova Book Fair—Adana

• • Meet authors from the region, receive special discounts and campaigns from many publishing houses, attend workshops and theater performances, and other fun activities.

FEBRUARY

Australia

February 7: Meet Me in the Mountains Book Signing—Blue Mountains, NSW

• • Join over 70 authors and vendors on a literary adventure on a journey to the foot of the mountains for a book signing, spanning the romantasy, dark romance, rom com, and paranormal genres. All proceeds will go to Starlight Foundation & NextSense Penrith.

February 21: Indie Bookworm Event (Fantasy Edition)—Ballarat, Victoria

• • This event will feature 30 independently published fantasy authors. Held at the magical Kryal Castle—entry to the signing also allows entry to the theme park.  

February 21-22: Book Fair Australia—Melbourne

• • A literary festival celebrating stories of all genres. Traditionally and independently published authors alike are welcome to share their diverse range through dedicated stalls, discussion panels, workshops and more. A thrilling weekend fit for any book lover, come by to get your books signed and explore a world of storytelling.

Cuba

 February 12-22: Havana Book Fair—Havana

• • Features book vendors, book presentations, poetry readings, children’s activities, art exhibitions, and evening concerts.

February 27- March 2: Vilnius Book Fair—Vilnius

• • Promoting and celebrating reading, this event invites visitors to meetings with writers, book presentations, discussions, concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and other cultural activities.

Norway

February 27- March 2: LitFestBergen—Bergen

• • Characterized by literary, linguistic, cultural and geographic diversity, the festival provides the chance for participants to meet authors from around the world and acquire insights into literary works that address the important questions of interest to all.

Pakistan

 February 4-8: Lahore International Book Fair—Lahore

• • Around 165 publishers and educational organizations set up stalls here on a variety of topics including Islam, computer and information technology, medical sciences, literature, law, and more.

Spain

February 10-16: Barcelona Crime Novel Festival (BCNegra)—Barcelona

• • Features a selection of great crime novel writers who participate in round tables and debates during which the public will be able to learn about their favorite authors.

Taiwan

 February 3-8: Taipei International Book Exhibition—Taipei

• • TIBE is a leading book fair that showcases the Asian market, featuring more than 364 publishing houses, 31 countries, and 61 professional rights meetings, in addition to a professional networking event.

MARCH

Australia

March 21-22: Clunes Book Town Festival—Clunes, Victoria

• • Clunes comes alive with 130+ book traders, author talks, workshops, live music, kids activities, and a movie night in the beloved historic Victorian township of Clunes.

March 21-29: Australian Romance Readers Association: Romantic Rendezvous

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

Belgium

March 26-29: Brussels Book Fair—Brussels

• • A nonprofit event promoting books and reading to all audiences, with 250+ exhibitors, 500 publishing houses, and 1,200 authors in meetings and dedications.

England

 March 10-12: London Book Fair—London

• • The global publishing community unites to develop relationships, gain insights, and define the future of creative content. From publishers, dealmakers, copyright pros, commissioners and global licensers—the entire publishing industry is represented.

France

March 20-22: Salon du Livre Africain de Paris—Paris

• • Celebrating African literature and culture, featuring authors, publishers, book signings, and literary awards, this fair fosters dialogue across continents and showcases the richness of Francophone African writing. It also highlights emerging voices and promotes diversity in global storytelling.

Germany

 March 7-8: Buchmesse im Ried—Hesse

• • A supraregional event about books and literature in which readers can get in touch with authors, browse books, visit publisher and bookstore booths, and attend readings and lectures.

March 19-22: Leipzig Book Fair—Leipzig

• • Connecting readers with authors, publishers, and media companies from Germany and around the world. Presents the spring’s new releases, current themes, and trends.

OMAN

March 26-April 5: The Musca International Book Fair—Muscat

• • According to the Arab Publishers Union, this is among the best 10 book fairs at the Arab level and one of the top three fairs at the Gulf level in terms of the number of visitors and publishers. Over 650 publishing houses from 27 Arab and foreign countries are taking part in this fair.

Poland

March 6-8: Poznań Book Fair— Poznań

• • A festival of literature and art, featuring a whole range of publishers in one place—both the largest and well-known as well as niche publishing by authors from Poland and abroad.

Switzerland

March 18-22: Geneva Book Fair—Geneva

• • The only book fair in Switzerland brings together nearly 350 exhibitors from all over the French-speaking world. Readers, publishers, writers, and booksellers get to meet up in exchange for knowledge and contacts in a friendly environment.

APRIL

Australia

April 18: A Thousand Lives Indie Book Convention—Melbourne

• • A Thousand Lives is proud to announce the very first "A Thousand Lives Indie Book Convention" (ATLCON), a romance-specific signing event, featuring Indie Authors. Plus: "The A Thousand Lives Masquerade Ball" in the evening, at the conclusion the signing event, in a separate location. This is a charity event.

Canada

April 8-12: Québec International Book Fair—Québec

• • The Quebec International Book Fair invites you to its annual literary event, taking place from April 8 to 12, 2026 at the Quebec City Convention Centre. All are welcome!

Italy

April 13-16: Bologna Children’s Book Fair—Bologna

• • Publishers, illustrators, graphic designers, literary agents, authors, translators, printers, distributors, audiobook professionals, booksellers, brands, librarians and teachers all flock to this event to experience the world of books and multimedia products.

MAY

Australia

May 3: Wild Out West—Perth

• • The first ever Wild Out West, an exclusive after-dark romance book signing event the likes of which Perth has never seen! Features a spacious signing floor full of authors from across the whole of Romancelandia, with a curated bookish marketplace, a literary pop-up tattoo studio, and a dedicated chill zone for relaxing and recharging. 

May 23: A Romantic Affair—Adelaide

• • 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!

JUNE

Australia

June 20: Falling for Fiction: Chapter One—Sunshine Coast, QLD

• • Meet 70 authors across all sub-genres of romance. From fantasy romance to dark romance, contemporary, and sci-fi. Falling for Fiction has something to suit everyone.

June 27: Love League: Sports Romance Book Event—Sydney

• • Calling all Sports Romance fans! Tilly Tait and Kris Monforte have recruited some of the best Sports Romance indie authors and they're waiting on the bench for you. Join them for a day of high adrenaline, sporting fun. Ages 18+. 

JULY

Australia

July 4: Romance'n the River—Margaret River

• • This one-day event in the stunning Margaret River wine region allows you to meet amazing authors and get your books signed, discover new local indie authors, and browse books and vendors with your bookish friends. 

AUGUST 

Australia

August 1-2: Love on the Beach Book Signing—Surfers Paradise, Queensland

• • A two-day event held at the beautiful Mantra on View at Surfers Paradise. Each day of the event will have completely different authors and vendors in attendance. All ages are welcome, but some material may contain mature content.

** We'll be at all starred events. Stop by our booth and discuss your publishing journey! 

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