African American Children’s Book Fair
Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Hosted by: The Literary Media & Publishing Consultants
Date: Saturday, February 3, 2018
Time: 1 to 3 p.m.Website: African American Children’s Book Fair
Phone: 215-878-2665
Email: vlloydsgam@aol.comDescription:
The African American Children’s Book Fair is 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 including the American Library Association Coretta Scott King Award. These authors and illustrators have produced some of the best books of our generation.Parents, caregivers and educators are very supportive of the African American Children’s Book Fair because they understand that children who read outside of their normal school course work tend to make more responsible decisions about their lifestyles.
The fun-filled afternoon is packed with activities that promote the POWER and JOY OF READING. Authors and illustrators will make presentations and sign their books. The Literary Row will distribute book-related promotional materials free of charge. Our Educator’s Book Giveaway will also distribute brand new books to teachers and librarians for use in their schools. In addition there will be a wide selection of affordable literature available to purchase.
The African American Children’s Book Fair is a part of the African American Children’s Book Project’s initiative to promote and preserve multicultural children’s literature.
The organization is leading a campaign entitled PRESERVE A LEGACY, BUY A BOOK. Its goal is to put books back into children’s homes. You can’t tell a child to read at home if there are no books. Read an interview the event’s organizer, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati
The event is free and opened to the public.
ALA Midwinter Meeting
Denver, Colorado,
Hosted by: American Library Association
Dates: Friday, February 9, 2018 to Tuesday, February 13, 2018Website: ALA Midwinter Meeting
Description:
ALA Annual Conference is the premier global library event each year, bringing together the newsmakers, innovators, thought leaders, and influencers in the library field, from all over the world. News is made at these events, where important announcements are made, updates are shared, relevant legislation and policy are addressed, and discussions take place that have a major impact on libraries, their role, and their ongoing transformation. This event trends nationally on Twitter and are extensively covered in the media.
Learn more about ALA Midwinter Meeting on AALBC.com.
Onyxcon
WOLF CREEK LIBRARY located at 3100 Enon Road, Atlanta, Georgia
Dates: Saturday, February 17, 2018 to Sunday, February 18, 2018
Website: Onyxcon
Email: onyxcon@gmail.comDescription:
2018 marks the 10 year anniversary of ONYXCON ! A DECADE.ONXCON is a convention, festival, and celebration.
We promote, showcase, educate, and entertain all fans of the Sequential Arts and related media. We EDUTAIN! We feature independent and legendary creators of comics, books, film, and other media with a focus on African Diaspora culture, concepts, interests, and general markets. Ultimately we represent diversity in these Arts and so we are open to representing all POPULAR ARTS that are CONSCIOUSLY DIVERSE! Our event is for everyone, and is a progressive and diverse networking event for professionals as well as enthusiasts who appreciate our showcase. Because comic books/comic strips have long stood as the foundation Art form of this type of convention, comics are a major feature. But ONYXCON IS NOT LIMITED TO COMIC BOOKS. Our events highlight other literary genres like speculative fiction, as well as video games, collectable toys and models, films/documentaries, and all other media related to the Popular Arts.
Learn more about Onyxcon on AALBC.com.
African-American Family Book Expo
Northwest Activities Center, Detroit, Michigan
Hosted by: Janeice R. Haynes
Date: Sunday, February 25, 2018
Time: 12 noon – 5 p.m.Website: African-American Family Book Expo
Phone: 248-209-6880Description:
This exciting one-day event is designed to preserve literacy in our community — at the family level. Enjoy a winter afternoon with over 60 talented, Black Indie Authors of adult & children books.
Learn more about African-American Family Book Expo on AALBC.com.
Southwest Florida Reading Festival
Fort Myers Regional Library Campus, Fort Myers, Florida
Date: Saturday, March 3, 2018
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Website: Southwest Florida Reading Festival
Email: mbyers@leegov.orgDescription:
There really is something for all ages to experience at the Southwest Florida Reading Festival. Everyone enjoys the multiple stages with the celebrity authors who share ‘inside scoop’ about their latest books or what makes a story idea click for them. You will be able to buy books and have the authors personalize and sign them too! You’ll find our numerous book and educational vendors offering the latest in services and new ideas. Kids will be mesmerized by the storytellers.
Learn more about Southwest Florida Reading Festival on AALBC.com.
Kingston Book Festival
Kingston, Jamaica, W.I.,
Hosted by: Book Industry Association of Jamaica
Dates: Sunday, March 4, 2018 to Sunday, March 11, 2018Website: Kingston Book Festival
Email: kgnbookfest@gmail.comDescription:
The Kingston Book Festival is one of the largest book festivals in the English speaking Caribbean. It comprises 30 events over 8 days with a combined audience of more than 6,000. We also include training and networking sessions for industry professionals as well as special events for vulnerable populations.All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise indicated. Venues to be confirmed.
Learn more about Kingston Book Festival on AALBC.com.
The Punta Gorda Literary Fair
Herald Court Breezeway and adjacent streets, Punta Gorda, Florida
Hosted by: Copperfish Books and Florida Gulf Coast University
Dates: Tuesday, March 6, 2018 to Sunday, March 11, 2018Website: The Punta Gorda Literary Fair
Phone: 941-258-2968Description:
Literary events take place Monday through Friday, culminating in the big one—Saturday’s street fair featuring artists, musicians, food, and lots of authors and books from 10 a. to 3 p.m. Authors will line the Herald Court Breezeway and adjacent streets. From a children’s garden of fun and games to musicians and art, lively workshops, and readings, the book fair offers fun and information for all ages.
Learn more about The Punta Gorda Literary Fair on AALBC.com.
AWP Conference
Tampa Convention Center & Marriott Tampa Waterside, Tampa, Florida
Dates: Wednesday, March 7, 2018 to Saturday, March 10, 2018
Website: AWP Conference
Phone: 703-993-4317
Email: events@awpwriter.orgDescription:
The AWP Conference & Bookfair is an essential annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers. Each year more than 12,000 attendees join our community for four days of insightful dialogue, networking, and unrivaled access to the organizations and opinion-makers that matter most in contemporary literature. The 2016 conference featured over 2,000 presenters and 550 readings, panels, and craft lectures. The book fair hosted over 800 presses, journals, and literary organizations from around the world. AWP is now the largest literary conference in North America.
New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Park Avenue Armory, New York, New York
Hosted by: Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America & International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (sanctioned by)
Dates: Thursday, March 8, 2018 to Sunday, March 11, 2018Website: New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Phone: 212.777.5218
Email: info@sanfordsmith.comDescription:
2017 was the 57th year this event was held.This book fair is officially sanctioned by the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America and the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers. The consumer can rely upon the experience and professionalism of participating dealers and the authenticity of the items available for purchase. All books, manuscripts and related material have been carefully examined for completeness and bibliographic accuracy.
Learn more about New York Antiquarian Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Tucson Festival of Books
University of Arizona Campus, Tucson, Arizona
Hosted by: John Humenik
Dates: Saturday, March 10, 2018 to Sunday, March 11, 2018Website: Tucson Festival of Books
Email: chairman@tucsonfestivalofbooks.orgDescription:
The Tucson Festival of Books debuted March 14-15, 2009, on the campus of The University of Arizona. The Festival featured 450 authors and presenters and welcomed 50,000 regional visitors, all made possible with generous support from our sponsors and the energetic goodwill of 800 volunteers.
Learn more about Tucson Festival of Books on AALBC.com.
Virginia Festival of the Book
Charlottesville, Virginia, 145 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Hosted by: Virginia Foundation for the Humanities
Dates: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 to Sunday, March 25, 2018Website: Virginia Festival of the Book
Phone: 434 924-7548
Email: vabook@virginia.eduDescription:
Produced by the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities (VFH), the largest of the 56 state (and territory) humanities councils, the Festival is a program of the Virginia Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past thirteen years. We have presented a captivating list of authors, ranging from international bestsellers to topical specialists to debut authors. An abbreviated list of past participants includes Rick Atkinson, Edward Ayers, David Baldacci, Maureen Corrigan, Edwidge Danticat, Kate DiCamillo, Rita Dove, Alan Furst, John Grisham, Jan Karon, Jim Lehrer, Frances Mayes, Colum McCann, David McCullough, Alice McDermott, Katherine Paterson, Jon Scieszka, Lisa Scottoline, Pete Seeger, Karin Slaughter, Alexander McCall Smith, Lee Smith, Bryan Stevenson, Elizabeth Strout, Judith Viorst, and Charles Wright. A more complete list of past participants can be seen here.
Programs range from traditional author readings and book signings to children’s programs and hands-on workshops. All programs are open to the public and, with the exception of a few ticketed events, the majority of Festival programs are free to attend.
Learn more about Virginia Festival of the Book on AALBC.com.
Oxford Conference for the Book
Oxford, Mississippi,
Hosted by: Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi
Dates: Wednesday, March 21, 2018 to Friday, March 23, 2018Website: Oxford Conference for the Book
Phone: 662.915.3374
Email: jgthomas@olemiss.eduDescription:
The Twenty-Third Oxford Conference for the Book is set for March 2-4, 2016, to bring together fiction and nonfiction writers, journalists, poets, publishers, teachers, and students for three days of readings, lectures, panels, workshops, and social events that celebrate the written word.Conference panels will explore a wide range of topics, including Mississippi history; childhood in the South; memoir writing; youth, activism, and life in the Mountain South; poetic responses to Langston Hughes; a cultural and culinary history of the pig; Harper Lee’s novels, To Kill a Mockingbird and Go Set a Watchman; the Hurricane Katrina crisis; and America’s continuing debate over science and religion.
Learn more about Oxford Conference for the Book on AALBC.com.
National Black Writers Conference
Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York
Hosted by: Center for Black Literature
Dates: Thursday, March 22, 2018 to Sunday, March 25, 2018Website: National Black Writers Conference
Phone: 718-804-8883
Email: writers@mec.cuny.eduDescription:
The National Black Writers Conference is be held, every two years at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. The conference features panels, author readings, roundtable discussions, and educational seminars.
Learn more about National Black Writers Conference on AALBC.com.
Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival
Centennial Park in downtown Venice, Venice, Florida
Hosted by: Pam Johnson
Dates: Friday, March 23, 2018 to Saturday, March 24, 2018Website: Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival
Email: pamj18@msn.comDescription:
The Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival is a small, unique program hosting writers teaching writers on Friday night, and authors selling and signing their books to the public on Saturday. All proceeds from the Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival go to Venice Heritage Inc., the 501(c) 3 fundraising arm of two historic sites in Venice, the Lord-Higel House, currently under restoration, and the Venice Museum and Archives expansion project.
Learn more about Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival on AALBC.com.
Dahlonega Literary Festival
Historic Square of Dahlonega, GA, Dahlonega, Georgia
Hosted by: Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition
Dates: Saturday, March 24, 2018 to Sunday, March 25, 2018Website: Dahlonega Literary Festival
Email: info@savannahbookfestival.orgDescription:
The Dahlonega Literary Festival is an annual celebration of books that takes place in March. Situated in Historic Downtown Dahlonega, the festival continues to grow and become more delightful as the years go on. Ours is an intimate festival about books and authors with a mission to promote interaction between readers and writers in a relaxed, informal environment. Visitors have an opportunity to meet and interact with the authors. In addition to attending speaking events and book signings, attendees can have lunch with their favorite authors at a local restaurant.Past featured authors include: Frances Mayes, Diana Gabaldon, Terry Kay, Deanna Raybourn, Joshilyn Jackson, and many more. Where else can you see, have conversations with, and even dine with bestselling authors while surrounded by the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.
Learn more about Dahlonega Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Newburyport Literary Festival
Newburyport, Massachusetts,
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Newburyport Literary Festival
Email: events@newburyportliteraryfestival.orgDescription:
Newburyport is located at the mouth of the Merrimack River, in the far northeast corner of Massachusetts. It is 35 miles north of Boston and 18 miles south of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Learn more about Newburyport Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Dallas Book Festival
Dallas Public Library, Dallas, Texas
Hosted by: Dallas Public Library
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Dallas Book Festival
Phone: 214-670-7809
Email: ronnie.jessie@dallascityhall.comLearn more about Dallas Book Festival on AALBC.com
University Spring Literary Festival
Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: University Spring Literary Festival
Description:
Since 1986, The Spring Literary Festival has featured some of the world’s finest, most distinguished writers of poetry, fiction and non-fiction. The three-day festival is held in May on the Ohio University main campus in Athens, OH.The festival is sponsored by the Creative Writing program in the English Department and is generously funded by the College of Arts & Sciences. All readings and lectures are free and open to the public.
Learn more about University Spring Literary Festival on AALBC.com
Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair
Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Hosted by: Alscess Lewis-Brown
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair
Phone: 340-692-4152
Email: abrown@uvi.eduDescription:
The second annual Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair was held in April of 2016 with events highlighting and celebrating literature’s role in culture and society. World-renowned author Salman Rushdie will be this year’s keynote speaker. Other highlighted guests include authors Jamaica Kincaid, Elizabeth Nunez and Earl Lovelace. See our Announcements page for updates and a list of featured authors.
Learn more about Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair on AALBC.com.
San Antonio Book Festival
Central Library (600 Soledad Street), the neighboring Southwest School of Art, and the Majestic Theatre, San Antonio, Texas
Hosted by: The San Antonio Library Foundation
Date: Saturday, April 7, 2018
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Website: San Antonio Book Festival
Phone: 210.225.4728
Email: information@saplf.orgDescription:
The Festival is a day-long event that unites readers and writers alike. Author presentations are held indoors while outdoors the Festival grounds are active with book sales, signings, children’s story time and learning projects, family activities, and a technology area. Food trucks offer a variety of eats; special tents feature live music and recipe demonstrations by cookbook authors. The large Festival Marketplace offers a lively setting for booksellers, publishers, literary-minded nonprofits, and local artists and craftmakers.
Learn more about San Antonio Book Festival on AALBC.com.
London Book Fair
Olympia London, London, United Kingdom
Hosted by: Reed Exhibitions Limited
Dates: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 to Thursday, April 12, 2018Website: London Book Fair
Email: lbf.helpline@reedexpo.co.ukDescription:
The London Book Fair is the global marketplace for rights negotiation and the sale and distribution of content across print, audio, TV, film and digital channels. Next year, the Fair will take place in April at Olympia, West London, covering all aspects of the publishing industry.
Learn more about London Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Ohioana Book Festival
Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio
Hosted by: The Ohioana Library Association
Date: Saturday, April 14, 2018
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.Website: Ohioana Book Festival
Phone: 614.466.3831
Email: ohioana@ohioana.orgDescription:
Since its inception in 2007, the Ohioana Book Festival has given readers the opportunity to connect with their favorite Ohio writers. Held each spring, the Festival welcomes roughly 100 authors and more than 3,000 visitors every year.
Learn more about Ohioana Book Festival on AALBC.com.
PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature
Various Venues, New York, New York
Hosted by: PEN America
Dates: Monday, April 16, 2018 to Sunday, April 22, 2018Website: PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature
Email: festival@pen.orgDescription:
PEN World Voices is America’s only international literary festival, attracting the best-known writers from across the globe. Since its founding, they have presented more than 1,500 writers and artists from 118 countries speaking 56 languages in venues across New York City in a weeklong series of literary events with a human rights focus. The Festival was founded by Salman Rushdie, Esther Allen, and Michael Roberts in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, with the aim of broadening channels of dialogue between the United States and the world—a mission that, today, has never been more relevant.
Learn more about PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature on AALBC.com.
Local Writer’s Showcase
Throughout Downtown Bethesda, Bethesda, Maryland
Hosted by: Bethesda Urban Partnership
Dates: Thursday, April 19, 2018 to Friday, April 20, 2018Website: Local Writer’s Showcase
Email: info@bethesda.orgDescription:
The annual Essay and Short Story contest, in partnership with Bethesda Magazine, will honor local writers! Adult top prize winners will receive $500 and be published in Bethesda Magazine’s July/August issue. Young adult (ages 14-17) winners will receive $250 and also be published in Bethesda Magazine. Additional prize money will also be given to second, third and honorable mention places. More info.The annual Poetry Contest will award $350 to the top poem that will also be published in The Writer’s Center’s “First Person Plural” blog. Up to three young poets will also be selected and receive $75. Additional prize money will also be given to second, third and honorable mention places. More info.
All selected essay, short story and poetry winners will be honored April 19 – 20, 2018 during the Local Writer’s Showcase.
Learn more about Local Writer’s Showcase on AALBC.com.
Southern Kentucky Bookfest
Bowling Green, Kentucky,
Dates: Friday, April 20, 2018 to Saturday, April 21, 2018
Website: Southern Kentucky Bookfest
Email: sokybookfest@wku.eduDescription:
The Southern Kentucky Book Fest is one of the state’s largest literary events. Held in Bowling Green, Kentucky each April, Book Fest draws thousands of readers of all ages who welcome the occasion to meet their favorite authors and purchase signed copies of their books.The Southern Kentucky Book Fest partnership consists of Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Warren County Public Library, and WKU Libraries. These entities collaborate throughout the year on a variety of literary events designed to fulfill the mission of the partnership: to encourage reading and the love of books, and to be a positive force in promoting literacy in our region and state.
Learn more about Southern Kentucky Bookfest on AALBC.com.
Florida Antiquarian Book Fair
St. Petersburg’s Historic Coliseum, St. Petersburg, Florida
Hosted by: Florida Antiquarian Booksellers Association
Dates: Friday, April 20, 2018 to Sunday, April 22, 2018Website: Florida Antiquarian Book Fair
Email: FloridaBookFair@gmail.comDescription:
The book fair is the third largest in the country and features more than one hundred specialized booksellers from all over the United States.
Learn more about Florida Antiquarian Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Black Writers On Tour
Carson Community Center, Los Angeles, California
Hosted by: Dr. Rosie
Date: Saturday, April 21, 2018
Time:Website: Black Writers On Tour
Email: drrosie@aol.comDescription:
Purpose: To promote literacy awareness, to give exposure to African-American authors, writers, and to motivate, and develop aspiring new writers and authors. To showcase Black Businesses, provide exposure and to increase their sales.
Learn more about Black Writers On Tour on AALBC.com.
Alabama Book Festival
Old Alabama Town, in Downtown Montgomery, Montgomery, Alabama
Date: Saturday, April 21, 2018
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Website: Alabama Book Festival
Phone: 888-240-1850
Email: alabamabookfestival@gmail.comDescription:
With over lots of authors, vendors and exhibitors, this free public event is the state’s premier literary event. Thousands of people from around the state and the Southeast gather at the festival each year to meet their favorite authors and scholars. A fun activity area for children makes this a day of fun for the entire family!
Learn more about Alabama Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
Dates: Saturday, April 21, 2018 to Sunday, April 22, 2018
Website: Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Phone: 424-652-1948
Email: eventinfo@latimes.comDescription:
The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books began in 1996 with a simple goal: to bring together the people who create books with the people who love to read them. The festival was an immediate success and has evolved to include live bands, poetry readings, chef demos, cultural entertainment and artists creating their work on-site. There’s also a photography exhibit, film screenings followed by Q&A’s and discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics.
Learn more about Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on AALBC.com.
Belize Writers’ Conference
Ak’bol Yoga Retreat, Ambergris Caye, Belize
Dates: Monday, April 23, 2018 to Saturday, April 28, 2018
Website: Belize Writers’ Conference
Email: thebelizewritersconference@gmail.comDescription:
First-ever Belize Writers’ Conference Launching April 2018. Six-day conference offers workshops by New York literary agents.
Learn more about Belize Writers’ Conference on AALBC.com.
The Bocas Lit Fest
Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago,
Dates: Wednesday, April 25, 2018 to Sunday, April 29, 2018
Website: The Bocas Lit Fest
Email: info@bocaslitfest.comDescription:
Boca is the Spanish word for mouth — the organ of speech and song and storytelling. And the Bocas del Dragón — the Dragon’s Mouths — are the narrow straits off Trinidad’s northwest peninsula, which connect the sheltered Gulf of Paria to the open Caribbean Sea. For centuries, the Bocas were the gateways connecting Trinidad to the Caribbean and the Atlantic.NGC is the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago, our title sponsor. Their generous support makes the festival possible.
The Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature is presented during this festival.
Arkansas Literary Festival
Central Arkansas Library System’s Main Library campus and other venues, Little Rock, Arkansas
Hosted by: Central Arkansas Library System
Dates: Thursday, April 26, 2018 to Sunday, April 29, 2018Website: Arkansas Literary Festival
Phone: 918-3095
Email: litfest@cals.orgDescription:
The Arkansas Literary Festival is a project of the Central Arkansas Library System. The Festival’s mission is to encourage the development of a more literate populace.A group of dedicated volunteers assists Festival Coordinator Brad Mooy with planning the Festival. Committee chairs include Kevin Brockmeier, Talent Committee; Susan Santa Cruz, Festival Guides; and Amy Bradley-Hole, Moderators.
Learn more about Arkansas Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Dayton Book Expo
David H. Ponitz Conference Center Sinclair, Community College Great Hall, Dayton, Ohio
Date: Saturday, April 28, 2018
Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.Website: Dayton Book Expo
Phone: 888-802-1802Description:
Hundreds of book lovers will convene at the Dayton Book Expo. The all-day event includes panel discussions for aspiring authors, activities for children in the Kidz Zone and book signings! The event is free and open to the public.
Learn more about Dayton Book Expo on AALBC.com.
Annapolis Book Festival
The Key School, Annapolis, Maryland
Hosted by: The Key School
Date: Saturday, April 28, 2018
Time:Website: Annapolis Book Festival
Phone: 410-263-9231Description:
The Annapolis Book Festival is one of the premier community events in the region. Every year more than 3,000 people attend this free community Festival that celebrates the beauty, power, passion, and excitement of the written word. The Annapolis Book Festival brings nationally renowned authors to The Key School in Annapolis, Maryland, to discuss their books and the craft of writing. The Festival also features children’s activities, live music, refreshments, and new and used book sales.
Learn more about Annapolis Book Festival on AALBC.com.
The Sistahs On Lit Book Festival
The Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, Maryland
Hosted by:Sistahs On Lit
Date: Sunday, April 29, 2018
Time: TBDWebsite: The Sistahs On Lit Book Festival
Email: papaya@sistahsonlit.comDescription:
Sistahs On Lit was founded in 2012 as a promoting business for Author’s books. After meeting several authors, and making sure the readers knew about their work, Papaya began to enjoy her new craft. In 2013 Papaya met Cherita King, who is an avid reader along with her husband Charles, who has worked with various vendors and entrepreneurs, and together they hosted a Bottles & Books event with several national best selling authors, which was a success!! Now they have taken on new heights and now hosting their 3rd annual event into a festival in the newly developed Downtown Silver Spring area.
Learn more about The Sistahs On Lit Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Anguilla Literary Festival
Paradise Cove Resort, West End, Anguilla
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Anguilla Literary Festival
Description:
The Anguilla Lit-Fest was conceptualized as a means of celebrating Anguilla’s literary heritage and is seen as a catalyst for visitor arrivals during the summer shoulder period. Visitors from the USA, Canada and The Caribbean are expected to be on island for the four- day event, which will feature a Welcome Cocktail, Breakfast and Lunch presentations, special sessions with the authors and fun-filled evening soirees. Participants will also be given a full day to create their personal Anguilla Experience or to reconnect with their individual creative muse.
Learn more about Anguilla Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Annual Literary & Arts Conference
African American Museum in Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Hosted by: Art Sanctuary
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Annual Literary & Arts Conference
Phone: 215.232.4485
Email: info@artsanctuary.orgDescription:
Art Sanctuary uses the power of black art to transform individuals, create and build community and foster cultural understanding.
Learn more about Annual Literary & Arts Conference on AALBC.com.
African American Children’s Book Fair
Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore, Maryland
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: African American Children’s Book Fair
Phone: 443-263-1800
Email: emailus@lewismuseum.org
The Bronx Book Fair
Bronx Library Center/New York Public Library, Bronx, New York
Hosted by: The fair is supported with a grant from the Bronx Council through the NY State Council on the Arts Decentralization Program
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: The Bronx Book Fair
Email: bronxbookfair@gmail.comDescription:
The Bronx Book Fair is dedicated to engaging and growing the community of poets and writers in the Bronx and to connecting those literary artists to readers and booklovers of all ages. Through readings, workshops, and presentations our goal is to engage the community with a variety of literature and programs that will broaden access to Bronx literary artists, increase library usage, and encourage a love of books and reading.
Learn more about The Bronx Book Fair on AALBC.com.
The Spring Book Festival
Wayne Curry Sports & Learning Center, Landover, Maryland
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Email: 2016pgbookfestival@gmail.com
Description:
The Spring Book festival, a celebration of the written word, is held each May. The 2017 Festival is the 3rd annual event. Our mission is to promote literacy, foster an interest in reading and writing, and to provide a vehicle where local and nationally known authors can interact with readers and the two can get to know and support each other through literary conversations and panel discussions.This is a one-day event which is free and open to the public.
Learn more about The Spring Book Festival on AALBC.com.
OE Book Fair
Oxford Exchange, Tampa, Florida
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: OE Book Fair
Phone: 813-253-0222
Email: info@oxfordexchange.comDescription:
“It is our mission at Oxford Exchange to continually foster human engagement, spark meaningful dialogue and establish Tampa’s place as a cultural destination. We launched the OE Book Fair in 2015 to provide an open platform for local authors to connect with their community face to face. A broad array of genres and interests are represented, complimented by discussions and workshops throughout the day of the fair. We hope you’ll join us the discovery of local literary talent!”Learn more about OE Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Greater St. Louis Book Fair
West County Center, St. Louis, Missouri
Dates: Thursday, May 3, 2018 to Sunday, May 6, 2018
Website: Greater St. Louis Book Fair
Email: info@stlouisbookfair.orgDescription:
Greater St. Louis Book Fair is one of the nation’s oldest, largest and most popular charity book sales. For over 60 years, book lovers and collectors have enjoyed bargain prices on a diverse and quality selection of new, gently-used and rare books. Fair proceeds benefit local non-profit education and literacy programs.
Learn more about Greater St. Louis Book Fair on AALBC.com.
The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Various Locations, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Dates: Thursday, May 3, 2018 to Sunday, May 6, 2018
Website: The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Email: info@thefoldcanada.orgDescription:
The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) celebrates diversity in literature by promoting diverse authors and stories in Brampton, Ontario—one of Canada&rsquos most culturally diverse cities.
Learn more about The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) on AALBC.com.
Yallwest Santa Monica Book Festival
Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, California
Date: Saturday, May 5, 2018
Time:Website: Yallwest Santa Monica Book Festival
Email: shane@yallwest.comDescription:
Over 113 authors including New York Times Bestsellers along with local and acclaimed young adult and middle grade writers, plus notable Hollywood directors and creators.2 days of panels, book signings, food trucks, bad jokes, rock ‘n’ roll, killer photo ops & general geeky debauchery
North Jersey Literary Festival
Newark Public Library, Newark, New Jersey
Hosted by: Garden State Events, LLC and Chanelle Alexandria
Date: Saturday, May 5, 2018
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.Website: North Jersey Literary Festival
Email: info@njlitfestival.comDescription:
The FIRST annual North Jersey Literary Festival, where entrepreneurship meets the literary world.
Learn more about North Jersey Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
RT Booklovers Convention
Peppermill Resort, Hotel, Spa & Casino, Reno, Nevada
Hosted by: RT Book Reviews
Dates: Tuesday, May 15, 2018 to Sunday, May 20, 2018Website: RT Booklovers Convention
Phone: 281-471-1077
Email: jocarol@rtconvention.comDescription:
More than 3,500 fans came out for the Giant Book Fair to meet 600 authors.The RT Booklovers Convention is the book-industry event where you can mix business with pleasure. Attend more than 200 workshops as well as numerous parties and reader events that will keep you informed and in touch while having fun. It’s where friends new and old come together to learn about the industry we love and to have fun with authors and fellow book lovers. Fifty percent of conventioneers are first-time RT Convention attendees, and many travel by themselves. However, almost all leave having made new friendships they’ll cherish for years to come.
Learn more about RT Booklovers Convention on AALBC.com.
Gaithersburg Book Festival
Gaithersburg City Hall Grounds, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Date: Saturday, May 19, 2018
Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.Website: Gaithersburg Book Festival
Phone: 301.258.6350
Email: ccrosby@gaithersburgmd.govDescription:
The Gaithersburg Book Festival is a celebration of the written word and its power to enrich the human experience. Our mission is to foster an interest in reading, writing and literary conversation.Since its inception in 2010, the Festival has quickly become one of the nation’s top literary events, attracting hundreds of award-winning and best-selling authors, poets, and songwriters from across the country to its quaint, park-like setting in the heart of Olde Towne Gaithersburg.
The event was conceived and introduced by Gaithersburg Mayor (then council member) Jud Ashman, with the support of the Mayor and City Council and the Cultural Arts Advisory Committee. The Festival is produced by a core committee comprised of city staff and a dedicated group of volunteers who donate their time and talent.
Funded in part by generous sponsors and supported by the City of Gaithersburg, the Festival offers programming for all ages, is free to attend and is open to everyone.
Learn more about Gaithersburg Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Books in Bloom Literary Festival
The 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Hosted by:Presented by the Carroll and Madison Public Library Foundation
Date: Sunday, May 20, 2018
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.Website: Books in Bloom Literary Festival
Email: jean@booksinbloom.orgDescription:
Books in Bloom Literary Festival: a Celebration for Writers and Readers was established in 2005 by the Carroll and Madison Public Library Foundation as its signature event to promote the value of books and reading. The Books in Bloom Co-chairs are Jean Elderwind, Jennifer Hudspeth, and Lin Wellford, directors on the Public Library Foundation Board.The Festival provides an opportunity for the public to meet accomplished authors, and to hear them read from or speak about their work. Aspiring writers learn about various aspects of writing and publishing, and avid readers are introduced to authors working in a wide variety of genres.
Learn more about Books in Bloom Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Black Pack Party
Clyde Frazier’s Wine & Dine, New York, New York
Hosted by: AALBC.com, Linda Duggins, Mosaic, WideVision Photography, and Written Magazine
Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.Website: Black Pack Party
Email: troy@aalbc.comDescription:
The Black Pack Party is an annual gathering of publishing industry professionals. It is held during Book Expo America.
Book Expo America
Javitz Center, New York, New York
Hosted by: Association of American Publishers, Association of Authors Representatives, Inc., and the American Booksellers Association
Dates: Wednesday, May 30, 2018 to Friday, June 1, 2018Website: Book Expo America
Phone: 1-800-840-5614
Email: inquiry@bookexpoamerica.comDescription:
BookExpo America (BEA) is the leading book and author event for the North American publishing industry. It’s the best place to discover new titles and authors, conduct business and network, and learn the latest trends.BEA is the largest gathering of booksellers, librarians, retailers, publishers, rights, licensing, and book industry professionals in North America.
Learn more about Book Expo America on AALBC.com.
Queens Book Festival
LIC Landing by Coffeed, Queens, New York
Hosted by: Johanne Civil, Executive Director
Dates: Saturday, June 9, 2018 to Sunday, June 10, 2018Website: Queens Book Festival
Phone: 917-745-3507
Email: info@queensbookfestival.nycDescription:
“The Queens Book Festival, debuted on August 7, 2016, is the largest and most inclusive literary gathering in Queens. It fills the borough with literary talks from over 100 authors as well as hundreds of exhibits within a walkable venue. Over 10,000 diverse people of all ages attend, thanks to the Festival’s robust media plan. The Festival will be entirely free to the public and actively will serve as a diverse platform for the “World’s Borough.”
Learn more about Queens Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Calabash International Literary Festival
Venue TBD, Treasure Beach, Jamaica, W.I.
Hosted by: The Calabash International Literary Festival Trust
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Calabash International Literary Festival
Phone: 876-965-3000
Email: calabashfestival@hotmail.comDescription:
The Calabash International Literary Festival, held on a biennial basis on even years, was founded in 2001 by three Jamaicans the novelist Colin Channer, the poet Kwame Dawes and the producer Justine Henzell. Their aim was simple—to create a world-class literary festival with roots in Jamaica and branches reaching out into the wider world. The Calabash International Literary Festival was founded in 2001 by three Jamaicans the novelist Colin Channer, the poet Kwame Dawes and the producer Justine Henzell. Their aim was simple—to create a world-class literary festival with roots in Jamaica and branches reaching out into the wider world.A three-day festival of readings and music with other forms of storytelling folded in the mix, Calabash is earthy, inspirational, daring and diverse. After 10 successive years Calabash is now staged on a biennial basis on even years. All festival events are free and open to the public. Passion is the only price of entry. But voluntary contributions are welcomed.
The festival is produced by the Calabash International Literary Festival Trust (the Trust), which also produces publishing seminars and writing workshops. The Trust is affiliated with the Friends of the Calabash International Literary Festival, a registered 501(c)(3) corporation in the United States.
Learn more about Calabash International Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Printers Row Lit Fest
Historic Printers Row, Chicago, Illinois
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Printers Row Lit Fest
Phone: 312-836-7000Description:
The Printers Row Lit Fest was founded in 1985 by the Near South Planning Board to attract visitors to the Printers Row neighborhood (once the city’s bookmaking hub). By 2002, it had grown to five city blocks (on Dearborn, from Congress to Polk), attracting more than 200 booksellers from across the country displaying new, used and antiquarian books and featuring more than 200 authors participating in panels, discussions and a variety of other programs.
Learn more about Printers Row Lit Fest on AALBC.com.
Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest
Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Plaza, 1368 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, New York
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest
Description:
WORD! – A Caribbean Lit Fest is a celebration of Caribbean culture, thought, letters and a good story! The program for readers of all ages highlights the range and diversity of work emanating from the Caribbean and its Diaspora in all the official languages of the region (Dutch, English, French; Spanish) and related native languages or creoles.
Learn more about Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest on AALBC.com.
Bay Area Book Festival
In Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley, California
Dates: Saturday, April 28, 2018 to Sunday, April 29, 2018
Website: Bay Area Book Festival
Email: info@baybookfest.orgDescription:
The Bay Area Book Festival is the primary project of the Foundation for the Future of Literature and Literacy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization incorporated in California. FFLL’s Tax ID number is 47-3955286. Its business address is 1569 Solano Ave. #635, Berkeley, CA 94707.FFLL is governed by a Board of Directors. Members include Cherilyn Parsons (Berkeley, CA), Peter Richardson (San Francisco, CA), Mal Warwick (Berkeley, CA), Brooke Warner (Berkeley, CA), and Igor Zagatsky (Berkeley, CA).
Learn more about Bay Area Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana
Hosted by: Go On Girl! Book Club
Dates: Friday, June 1, 2018 to Sunday, June 3, 2018Website: Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend
Phone: 317 506 6257
Email: events@goongirl.orgDescription:
The first Author Awards were presented in 1992 as a small event held in Brooklyn, New York to recognize those authors and publishers that made significant contributions in the writing and publication of quality books for and about people of African descent. That year we honored Gloria Naylor for Bailey’s Café and New Authors of the Year Barbara Neely for Blanche on the Lam and Barbara Summers for Nouvelle Soul. We gave a publishing award to Beacon Press for their work in publishing authors of color. We were delighted when they all showed up to accept their awards. That was the beginning of a GOG tradition. The annual Author Awards event has traveled the United States from east to west as well as outside the U.S. to Jamaica, West Indies and Toronto, Canada.Beginning in 1993, the one-night event became a three-day weekend where chapters meet and take care of business issues and celebrate the winning authors. It’s also an opportunity for members to meet and reconnect with their literary sisters from all over the country.
Each year winning authors are selected from our reading list based upon votes from each Go On Girl! Book Club chapter for Author of the Year and New Author of the Year. They are then invited to receive their awards in person at the annual Awards Ceremony. GOG members and guests have had the honor of awarding in person to Pearl Cleage, Bebe Moore Campbell, Walter Mosely, Jill Nelson, Valerie Wilson Wesley, Diane McKinney Whetstone, Lawrence Hill, Daniel Black, Isabel Wilkerson to name a few.
This flagship event is one of the ways of expressing our deep authentic respect for Black literature and authors, reinvigorating our literary sisterhood, and providing a platform for new literary talent to emerge.
Learn more about Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend on AALBC.com.
Sacramento Black Book Fair
The Historic Center of Oak Park, Sacramento, California
Hosted by: Blue Nile Press
Dates: Friday, June 1, 2018 to Saturday, June 2, 2018Website: Sacramento Black Book Fair
Phone: 916.484.3749
Email: faye@bluenilepress.comDescription:
This historic two-day book fair and celebration will include a panel discussion among our featured authors, book signings, talks by each of the featured writers, cultural & food vendors, book discussions with each writer listed in the program, children’s activities, poetry readings, art displays, and much moreLearn more about Sacramento Black Book Fair on AALBC.com.
BookCon
Javitz Center, New York, New York
Hosted by: ReedPOP Events
Dates: Saturday, June 2, 2018 to Sunday, June 3, 2018Website: BookCon
Phone: 800.777.8774
Email: inquiry@TheBookCon.comDescription:
BookCon is the event where storytelling and pop culture collide. Consumers and brands will experience the origin of the story in all its forms by interacting with the authors, publishers, celebrities and creators of content that influence everything we read, hear and see. BookCon is an immersive experience that features interactive, forward thinking content including Q&As with the hottest talent, autographing sessions, storytelling podcasts, special screenings, literary quiz shows and so much more. BookCon is the ultimate celebration of books, where your favorite stories come to life.
Learn more about BookCon on AALBC.com.
AAMBC Literary Awards
Various Locations, Atlanta, Georgia
Hosted by: African Americans on the Move Book Club (AAMBC)
Dates: Friday, June 8, 2018 to Sunday, June 10, 2018Website: AAMBC Literary Awards
Email: aambcvoting@gmail.comDescription:
AAMBC which stands for African Americans on the Move Book Club was created in February 2008 by a then twenty-year-old, Tamika Newhouse. What started as an online book club grew into a national Phenomenon. The sole purpose was to expose the unknown writer and to give them the opportunity to win accolades. A tradition still highly expressed to this very date, AAMBC still caters to the unknown writer. They have single handedly worked with thousands of writers’ new, seasoned, and celebrities. From first time writers to nationally known they have consistently set the tone to support and promote black writers. In 2008 Tamika Newhouse hosted the AAMBC Radio show on weekly bases for over four years. During this time, it had guest hosts and it interviewed new writers as well as popular writers such as Zane, Mary B Morrison, Francis Ray, and Carl Weber. In the year of 2011 it hosted many controversial and highly sought out panel discussions that helped garner many writer’s careers. It went off the air in 2013. The annual AAMBC Literary Awards was launched in 2009 in San Antonio, Texas by the founder. Smaller ceremonies were then hosted in the years following in Chicago as well as in Baltimore in adjacent to various literary events. In 2015 the first inaugural red carpet ceremony took place in Atlanta, GA marking the beginning of the black writer’s weekend. To understand the importance of AAMBC’s presence in the book industry is to understand the value of supporting our black writers. The awards serve as the premiere event the industry talks about and artist strive to be.AALBC.com’s Founder, Troy Johnson, was named Literary Activist of the Year for 2017.
Learn more about AAMBC Literary Awards on AALBC.com.
Romance Slam Jam Convention
Kansas City, Missouri,
Dates: Thursday, June 14, 2018 to Saturday, June 16, 2018
Website: Romance Slam Jam Convention
Phone: 214-856-0697
Email: info@rsjconvention.comDescription:
Romance Slam Jam convention is an annual book lovers’ event for black authors of romantic fiction and the book lovers who read them.RSJ was born out of a necessity in 1995 due to the systemic exclusion by the publishing industry of black authors from acquisitions, mainstream distribution, and industry awards. In a response to gatekeepers who once said, “People won’t buy black romance,” RSJ set out to break barriers in the now billion dollar romance book industry and support authors who challenged the illusion of inclusion.
Learn more about Romance Slam Jam Convention on AALBC.com.
ALA Conference
New Orleans, Louisiana,
Hosted by: American Library Association
Dates: Thursday, June 21, 2018 to Tuesday, June 26, 2018Website: ALA Conference
Description:
ALA Annual Conference is the premier global library event each year, bringing together the newsmakers, innovators, thought leaders, and influencers in the library field, from all over the world. News is made at these events, where important announcements are made, updates are shared, relevant legislation and policy are addressed, and discussions take place that have a major impact on libraries, their role, and their ongoing transformation. This event trends nationally on Twitter and are extensively covered in the media.
Learn more about ALA Conference on AALBC.com.
Austin African American Book Festival
Carver Museum and Library, Austin, Texas
Hosted by: Rosalind Oliphant
Date: Saturday, June 23, 2018
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.Website: Austin African American Book Festival
Email: info@aabookfest.comDescription:
Austin’s African American Book Festival celebrate over a decade of promoting literature by and about African Americans at the Carver Museum and Library.2018 marks this fair’s 12th anniversary.
Learn more about Austin African American Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Community Book Center Homefest
Community Book Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
Hosted by: Vera Warren
Date: July 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Community Book Center Homefest
Phone: 504-948-7323
Email: readcbcnola@aol.comLearn more about Community Book Center Homefest on AALBC.com.
The Soulful Chicago Book Fair
61st Street from Cottage Grove to King Drive, Chicago, Illinois
Hosted by: Asadah Kirkland
Date: July 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: The Soulful Chicago Book Fair
Email: soulfulchicagobookfair@gmail.comDescription:
The Soulful Chicago Book Fair is a FREE, outdoor, celebration of literacy and literary arts found throughout the African Diaspora. It is Chicago’s only living “author-centric” festival, filled with OUR stories told through books, spoken word, storytelling, songwriting, play writing and art!Learn more about The Soulful Chicago Book Fair on AALBC.com.
The Atlanta Kick Back
Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, Georgia
Hosted by: 556 Book Chicks Book Club
Date: Saturday, July 14, 2018
Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.Website: The Atlanta Kick Back
Email: atlantakickback@gmail.comDescription:
556 Book Chicks is an award-winning book club, founded in 2012 by 3 friends and co-workers (Benita, Monika, and Tiffany). It started as just a book club – discussing and meeting authors. Over the years the book club has grown into an Atlanta Book Signing Festival.
Learn more about The Atlanta Kick Back on AALBC.com.
Harlem Book Fair
West 135th Street, Harlem, New York
Hosted by: Max Rodriguez
Date: Saturday, July 21, 2018
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.Website: Harlem Book Fair
Email: hbf@qbr.comDescription:
The Harlem Book Fair is the United State’s largest African-American book fair and the nation’s flagship Black literary event. Held annually in Harlem, NY, the Harlem Book Fair features exhibition booths, panel discussions, book sales, and workshops.The Phillis Wheatley Book Awards are presented in conjunction with this event.
Learn more about Harlem Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Leimert Park Village Book Fair
Outdoor Promenade of the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza (BHCP), Los Angeles, California
Date: August 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Leimert Park Village Book Fair
Email: info@leimertparkboofair.comDescription:
See Press ReleaseThe Leimert Park Village Book Fair was founded in 2006 by Cynthia E. Exum with the goal of promoting literacy and education in Los Angeles. The Leimert Park Village Book Fair was inspired by a project in February 1999 when Ms. Exum partnered with Our Authors Study Club, Inc. to present a ‘Festival of African American Authors’ at Los Angeles Southwest College. Its success in drawing 10 authors participating for an audience of 40 inspired the idea of creating an annual literary event.
Today, the Annual Leimert Park Village Book Fair attracts over 200 authors, poets, spoken word artists, storytellers, performers, and literary/educational exhibitor participants – and boasts an audience of over 5,000. Since its inception the Leimert Park Village Book Fair has grown in popularity and prestige becoming a cultural tradition and premier summer literary event.
Learn more about Leimert Park Village Book Fair on AALBC.com.
National Conference of African American Librarians
Grand Hyatt Buckhead, Atlanta, Georgia
Date: August 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: National Conference of African American Librarians
Description:
The Black Caucus of the American Library Association serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of African American librarians.The Black Caucus of the American Library Association also honors outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction for adult audiences by African American authors.
Learn more about National Conference of African American Librarians on AALBC.com.
Mississippi Book Festival
Mississippi State Capitol, Jackson, Mississippi
Date: August 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Mississippi Book Festival
Phone: 769.717.2648
Email: info@msbookfestival.comDescription:
The Mississippi Book Festival, a nonprofit founded by literacy advocates, launched in August 2015 on the State Capitol grounds and continues to draw thousands to its annual “literary lawn party” and book lovers’ celebration.
Learn more about Mississippi Book Festival on AALBC.com.
The Writivism Festival
Kampala, Uganda,
Hosted by: Centre for African Cultural Excellence (CACE)
Date: August 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: The Writivism Festival
Description:
It is part of Writivism, the organization’s flagship initiative that identifies, mentors and promotes emerging African writers. The festival is Uganda’s leading literary event and is celebrates various arts around an annual theme.Learn more about The Writivism Festival on AALBC.com.
National Book Club Conference
Loews Atlanta Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia
Hosted by: National Book Club Conference Foundation
Dates: Friday, August 3, 2018 to Sunday, August 5, 2018Website: National Book Club Conference
Description:
Over the course of 15 years, some of the most famous and talented authors have been a part of what the NBCC calls “literary bliss”. Important to the NBCC, however, is to introduce new or lesser-known authors that have created stories that are entertaining, informative and important.
Learn more about National Book Club Conference on AALBC.com.
Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair
The Denver Mart – I-25 & 58th Avenue, Denver, Denver, Colorado
Hosted by: Rocky Mountain Antiquarian Booksellers Association (RMABA)
Dates: Friday, August 3, 2018 to Saturday, August 4, 2018Website: Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair
Email: bookfair2016@rmaba.orgDescription:
The Rocky Mountain Book & Paper Fair will have guest speakers who will discuss the Mystery genre. Once again we will have the Book Arts displays and demonstrations including the Preservation Station. Whether you are a serious collector; print enthusiast, or casual shopper, the RMBPF has a lot to offer from rare books and maps to cultural oddities and whimsical finds.Over 80 exhibitors from across the nation have selected their best inventory to present at the fair. If you’re looking for something specific, ask our exhibitors, you never know what they have in store that you have been hoping to acquire or might never have imagined exists!
Learn more about Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair on AALBC.com.
Toronto Urban Book Expo
Toronto Centre for the Arts, Toronto, Canada
Hosted by: Kya Publishing
Date: Friday, August 3, 2018
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.Website: Toronto Urban Book Expo
Email: info@kyapublishing.comDescription:
Kya Publishing’s TUBE is the only Canadian event dedicated to celebrating urban fiction. It is an annual exposition of contemporary urban writers where authors and publishers have the opportunity to display, sell, and communicate their projects while promoting support and recognition for urban literature, literacy, and culture.
Learn more about Toronto Urban Book Expo on AALBC.com.
AJC Decatur Book Festival
Venue TBD, Decatur, Georgia
Dates: Friday, August 31, 2018 to Sunday, September 2, 2018
Website: AJC Decatur Book Festival
Phone: 404.666.2112Description:
In 2005, while driving back from the South Carolina Book Festival with a friend, Daren Wang wondered aloud: How does Columbia, S.C., sustain a successful book festival while metropolitan Atlanta does not?Atlanta is well known for its many festivals these events shape the summer landscape of Atlanta. But despite several earlier attempts, there still was no free festival celebrating the written word.
Over the course of that drive from Columbia, Wang hatched a plan to establish a book festival modeled after the overwhelmingly successful Decatur Arts Festival. Decatur, a small town six miles east of Atlanta, is one of the most pedestrian-friendly towns in Georgia
The AJC Decatur Book Festival is the largest independent book festival in the country and one of the five largest overall. Since its launch, more than 1,000 world-class authors and hundreds of thousands of festival-goers have crowded the historic downtown Decatur square.
Learn more about AJC Decatur Book Festival on AALBC.com.
New York Black Book Conference & Expo
National Black Theater, New York, New York
Hosted by: Black Expo America Inc.
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: New York Black Book Conference & Expo
Phone: 917-501-0614
Email: info@blackexpoamerica.comDescription:
A 2-day literary event is expected by all who attend the 1st Annual Black Book Expo and Conference hosted by Black Expo America. The all-day book expo and conference will celebrate the diversity of the written and spoken word along with promoting emerging authors, poetry and spoken word performances, a children’s book corner, engaging panel discussions, and workshops.
Learn more about New York Black Book Conference & Expo on AALBC.com.
BWABC Literacy Festival
Memphis Cook Convention Center, Memphis , Tennessee
Hosted by: The BWABC Literacy Association
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: BWABC Literacy Festival
Description:
2017 Festival was cancelled“The BWABC Literacy Association will not hold its annual festival in 2017. We thank you for your support and attendance over the past five years. We are presently regrouping and designing ways to make the festival bigger and better. We encourage you as authors, book clubs, and avid readers to remain involved in your communities. Support literacy and encourage others, especially our children, to read, read, read! Attend other festivals and conferences that can be found spread throughout the country. Support these festivals. It may look like it’s easy to put on a successful event, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. We love you and appreciate you. Feel free to email us at booksistah@gamil.com or bwabc1@gmail.com for questions and/or concerns.” —BWABC Team
BWABC Literacy Festival is an annual festival accepting and open to all regardless of gender, race, national origin, religion, age, marital status, or disability. Our mission is to promote literacy by connecting authors primarily with avid readers, book clubs, authors and publishers. It is held in September during National Literacy Month.
At the festival you can meet, engage and network with authors, book clubs and avid readers from across the nation, purchase books to support literacy, walk the book club ‘purple carpet,’participate in games, win door prizes, Children’s corner, attend book club panel discussions, enter essay contests to win a number of prizes and awards! It is a FAMILY FRIENDLY FESTIVAL AND FREE TO ALL!
The event is held every year, the 3rd weekend of September. Friday is the author’s networking and Saturday is the day festival is open to public.
Learn more about BWABC Literacy Festival on AALBC.com.
Brooklyn Book Festival
Various Venues, Brooklyn, New York
Hosted by: Brooklyn Book Festival, Inc. and Brooklyn Book Festival Literary Council
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Brooklyn Book Festival
Phone: 570-362-6657
Email: lkoch@brooklynbookfestival.orgDescription:
The Brooklyn Book Festival is the largest free literary event in New York City, presenting an array of national and international literary stars and emerging authors. One of America’s premier book festivals, this hip, smart diverse gathering attracts thousands of book lovers of all ages to enjoy authors and the festival’s lively literary marketplace.
Learn more about Brooklyn Book Festival on AALBC.com.
ZEE JLF at Boulder
Boulder Library and Civic Lawns, Boulder, Colorado
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: ZEE JLF at Boulder
Email: contact@teamworkarts.comDescription:
A festival of literature from all over the world, ZEE JLF at Boulder promises to be an event unlike any other. Free and accessible to everyone, rich with words and ideas, the Festival invites you to join us in examining the human experience through the reflections and imaginations of distinguished contemporary authors from across the globe.
Learn more about ZEE JLF at Boulder on AALBC.com.
South Dakota Festival of Books
Brookings & Sioux Falls, South Dakota,
Hosted by: South Dakota Humanities Council
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: South Dakota Festival of Books
Phone: 605-688-6113Description:
The South Dakota Humanities Council celebrates literature, promotes civil conversation, and tells the stories that define our state.
Learn more about South Dakota Festival of Books on AALBC.com.
Fall for the Book
George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus, Fairfax, Virginia
Hosted by: William Miller
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Fall for the Book
Phone: 703-993-3986
Email: executivedirector[@]fallforthebook.orgDescription:
What began as a two-day literary event in 1999, organized by George Mason University and the City of Fairfax, has expanded into a week-long, multiple-venue, regional festival that brings together people of all ages and interests, thanks to growing community interest and generous supporting partners.Events take place at George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus, the festival’s base, and at other locations throughout Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland.
Learn more about Fall for the Book on AALBC.com.
Fall Into Fiction
Four Points by Sheraton, Emeryville, California
Hosted by: United California African-American Bookclubs (UCAAB)
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Fall Into Fiction
Email: ucaabookclubs@yahoo.comDescription:
UCAAB was created as a way for African-American book clubs in California to network, support, and promote our reading groups, black-owned independent bookstores, and the authors we love to read. Many of us live, work, and meet in the same area; but, rarely do we get a chance to come together as ONE! UCAAB is our way of officially creating and sustaining a cohesive environment that celebrates each member’s (book club or individual) uniqueness, encourages community bonding, embraces fellowship, and supports the literary contributions of authors of African descent.One of the primary goals of UCAAB is to bring book lovers and authors together on the west coast. We accomplish this by hosting our annual Fall into Fiction literary event. This is just one of the ways we get the attention of publishers, so they will begin to include California on all of their authors’ book tours.
Learn more about Fall Into Fiction on AALBC.com.
Burlington Book Festival
UVM’s Dudley H. Davis Center and Other Venues, Burlington, Vermont
Hosted by: Rick Kisonak, Festival Director
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Burlington Book Festival
Phone: 802-658-3328Description:
The Queen City’s annual celebration of the written word offers readings, book signings, panels, workshops, demos, family activities, and special events featuring literary luminaries from around the world and just around the corner. All events are free and open to the public.
Learn more about Burlington Book Festival on AALBC.com.
The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers
Hobart, New York,
Date: September 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers
Phone: 607-538-9222
Email: hobartfestivalofwomenwriters@gmail.comDescription:
The Festival of Women Writers has become a highly anticipated event, unique among cultural happenings in the Catskill Region, especially in Delaware County. The Festival will celebrate its fourth year in the Hobart Book Village, “the reading capital of New York State.” Since its inception, the Festival has created space for established and emerging women writers to share their insights and skills through a variety of writing activities and public readings with audiences throughout Delaware County, the state of New York, and beyond.Poet Cheryl Clarke, novelist Breena Clarke, and Barbara Balliet are festival’s cofounders.
Learn more about The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers on AALBC.com.
Great American Book Festival
Main Street Square, Rapid City, South Dakota
Hosted by: Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews
Dates: Friday, May 11, 2018 to Saturday, May 12, 2018Website: Great American Book Festival
Email: LITERARYCLASSICS@LIVE.COMDescription:
The Great American Book Festival was created by the founders of Literary Classics Book Awards & ReviewsIn an effort to support the literary arts, Literary Classics Book Awards and Reviews has created the Great American Book Festival. To be held annually, this event has become home to the Literary Classics Book Awards and related events, and will be held in conjunction with a book festival. The Great American Book Festival is slated to be held each year on Labor Day weekend. The festival is open to the public and authors from all regions and genres are invited to participate along with related vendors and food purveyors.
Learn more about Great American Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Library of Congress National Book Festival
Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC, District of Columbia
Date: Saturday, September 1, 2018
Time:Website: Library of Congress National Book Festival
Email: bookfest@loc.govDescription:
Mark your calendars for the 18th Library of Congress National Book Festival, Saturday, Sept. 1, at the Washington Convention Center. Follow the excitement via our hashtag, #NatBookFest.
Learn more about Library of Congress National Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Open Book Cape Town
The Fugard Theatre, Capetown, South Africa
Dates: Wednesday, September 5, 2018 to Sunday, September 9, 2018
Website: Open Book Cape Town
Description:
Open Book Festival at The Fugard Theatre is an annual literary festival, the first of which happened in 2011.When Mervyn Sloman and Ben Williams started talking about creating a festival, they had in mind around 60 literary events over 5 days featuring about 15 top international as well as some of the best South Africans writing today. Due to the incredible support Open Book received, that quickly grew into a festival that now includes over 100 events, featuring over 100 authors.
Learn more about Open Book Cape Town on AALBC.com.
Carolina Mountains Literary Festival
Burnsville, North Carolina,
Dates: Thursday, September 6, 2018 to Saturday, September 8, 2018
Website: Carolina Mountains Literary Festival
Email: cmlitfest@gmail.comDescription:
The festival idea was born when a small group of local citizens and businesspersons spontaneously came together ten years ago around the goal of giving greater exposure to the art of writing and the joys of reading in an area already famed for its colony of artists in other media. Originally, that group consisted of literacy advocate Myrna Stephens; Wendy Reid, owner of The Design Gallery; poet Britt Kaufmann; children’s book author Karen Miller; artist Anne Sabri, and health care consultant and aspiring writer Ruth Perschbacher Price and her husband, historical novelist Charles F. Price. Now it also includes Dr. Dan Barron, former director of the Avery-Mitchell-Yancey Regional Libraries, downtown booster Lucy Gregory Doll, poet and community volunteer Kathy Weisfeld, librarian, runner, super-mom and new director of the Avery-Mitchell-Yancey Regional Libraries Amber Westall Briggs, artist and arts advocate Jane Brown Willig, and many others.
Learn more about Carolina Mountains Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Kerrytown BookFest
Farmer’s Market, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Date: Sunday, September 9, 2018
Time: 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Website: Kerrytown BookFest
Description:
The Kerrytown BookFest is held each September and is a celebration of books, those who create them and those who read them. Our primary goal is to highlight our area’s rich heritage in the book and printing arts and showcase local individuals, businesses, and organizations. The day will be filled with entertainment, education, and hands-on experiences.
Learn more about Kerrytown BookFest on AALBC.com.
Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend
Harborside Hotel, Oxon Hill, Maryland
Hosted by: Sharon Lucas and The Reading Divas Book Club
Dates: Friday, September 14, 2018 to Saturday, September 15, 2018Website: Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend
Email: sharon@sharonrlucas.comDescription:
The BARR Weekend is a two-day networking conference held annually in Bowie, MD. BARR brings authors and readers together to celebrate the written word of the often overlooked, overworked and often underrated AA author.The conference features a 20 to 25-person Expo, which includes new, emerging and nationally recognized authors. Panel discussions and workshops are aimed at expanding the knowledge of the discerning reader and fledgling author.
Learn more about Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend on AALBC.com.
The Joint Conference of Librarians of Color
Albuquerque, New Mexico,
Dates: Wednesday, September 26, 2018 to Sunday, September 30, 2018
Website: The Joint Conference of Librarians of Color
Description:
The Joint Conference of Librarians of Color is a conference for everyone! The conference is sponsored by five associations of ethnic librarians, including:
- American Indian Library Association (AILA)
- Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)
- Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA)
- Chinese American Librarians Association (CALA)
- National Association to Promote Library and Information Services to Latinos and the Spanish Speaking (REFORMA)
Learn more about The Joint Conference of Librarians of Color on AALBC.com.
Kingston WritersFest
Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront, Ontario, Canada
Dates: Wednesday, September 26, 2018 to Sunday, September 30, 2018
Website: Kingston WritersFest
Email: info@kingstonwritersfest.caDescription:
“A festival for writers and readers.”
Learn more about Kingston WritersFest on AALBC.com.
Baltimore Book Festival
Baltimore Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Maryland
Dates: Friday, September 28, 2018 to Sunday, September 30, 2018
Website: Baltimore Book Festival
Phone: 410-752-8632
Email: baltimorebookfestival@promotionandarts.orgDescription:
The Baltimore Book Festival features hundreds of appearances by local, celebrity and nationally known authors, book signings, more than 100 exhibitors and booksellers, nonstop readings on multiple stages, cooking demos by top chefs, poetry readings, workshops, panel discussions, storytellers and hands-on projects for kids, live music, and a thoughtfully curated food, craft beer, and wine program.
Learn more about Baltimore Book Festival on AALBC.com.
The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair
Morgan State University – University Student Center Building, Timonium, Maryland
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair
Email: africanamerican expo@gmail.comDescription:
2016 marks seven years of event excellence in Maryland for the African American Author’s Expo (AAAE). AAAE has a reputable reputation for showcasing hundreds of independent authors/artists from across the nation at its annual literary events. AAAE’s mission is to create a platform that exposes independent authors to the general public while helping authors make connections with national book clubs, provide entrepreneurial workshops and author seminars.The Authors & Empowerment expo and all of its workshops and panels are free and open to public. You will find workshops on writing, marketing, branding and how to make sales. Panel discussion on Reality TV shows, Hip-Hop and social media, publishing panel and relationship panel. Pitch competitions for college students and authors.
Learn more about The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair on AALBC.com.
African American Literary Awards Show
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York, New York
Hosted by: Yvette Hayward
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: African American Literary Awards Show
Email: yvette@literaryawardshow.com
Price: $55Description:
The African American Literary Award show is the brainchild of Yvette Hayward. She came up with the idea in 1996 and was finally able to bring it to fruition in September 2004.
Learn more about African American Literary Awards Show on AALBC.com.
Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony
Washington Plaza Hotel, Washington, District of Columbia
Hosted by: Hurston/Wright Foundation
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony
Description:
Named for literary geniuses, Zora Neale Hurston and Richard Wright, the Hurston/Wright Foundation was founded in 1990. Hurston/Wright was established to be a resource center for training and a gateway to ensure the unique experience and voice of African Americans in literature.The Hurston/Wright Foundation ?is a literary education institution committed to the development, dissemination and preservation of literature with a focus on the contributions of African American writers. By preserving and honoring African Americans in literature, the Foundation ensures this vital part of American literature will continue to remain available to all readers.
The Hurston/Wright Foundation serves aspiring and emerging writers, published authors, readers and supporters of Black literature. Hurston/Wright programs, awards, special events and literary resources aim to impact the literature community and those who contribute to the enrichment of it.
Learn more about Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony on AALBC.com.
Independent Authors Book Expo
Abraham Clark High School, Roselle, New Jersey
Hosted by: Renaee Smith
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Independent Authors Book Expo
Phone: 973-723-4584
Email: iabex@hotmail.comDescription:
Come out and meet face to face with local and international authors. Friends, family, and the community at large are encouraged to come out and support our budding authors. Authors will make presentations from their books; also games, prizes, promotional giveaways will be available. A wide selection of books will be available for purchase at the event. This event will feature the following: Author exhibits Author Readings and Signings Children’s Corner (with Arts and Crafts and Author Readings) Free Workshops and Seminars Book Club Meet and Greet, and much more!
Learn more about Independent Authors Book Expo on AALBC.com.
Alaska Book Week
Statewide, Alaska
Hosted by: Alaska Center for the Book
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Alaska Book Week
Email: alaskabookweek@gmail.comDescription:
Alaska Book Week was established in 2011 by 49 Writers to spotlight Alaska’s authors and their books. Since then it has grown into a state-wide celebration, coordinated by a coalition of organizations: the Alaska Center for the Book, 49 Writers, the Alaska State Library, and Anchorage Public Library.
Learn more about Alaska Book Week on AALBC.com.
Northern Arizona Book Festival
Locally owned businesses throughout the historic downtown, Flagstaff, Arizona
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Northern Arizona Book Festival
Email: nazbookfest@gmail.comDescription:
The Northern Arizona Book Festival will bring a weeklong literary extravaganza filled with readings, workshops, and book signings.
Learn more about Northern Arizona Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Louisiana Book Festival
State Library of Louisiana and nearby locations, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Louisiana Book Festival
Phone: 225.219.9503
Email: lbf@state.lib.la.usDescription:
The Louisiana Center for the Book in the State Library of Louisiana is a free, world-class literary festival last October in downtown Baton Rouge.
Boston Book Festival
Copley Square, Boston, Massachusetts
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Boston Book Festival
Phone: 857.259.6999
Email: info@bostonbookfest.orgDescription:
The Boston Book Festival celebrates the power of words to stimulate, agitate, unite, delight, and inspire by holding year-round events culminating in an annual, free Festival that promotes a culture of reading and ideas and enhances the vibrancy of our city.
Learn more about Boston Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Twin Cities Book Festival
MINNESOTA STATE FAIRGROUNDS, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Hosted by: Rain Taxi
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Twin Cities Book Festival
Description:
The Twin Cities Book Festival—brought to you by Rain Taxi—is not only the largest and most important literary gathering in the Upper Midwest, it is the annual get-together for the Twin Cities’ devoted literary community. This FREE, day-long festival brings people together to celebrate our vibrant literary culture. The festival welcomes ‘rock star’ authors, local literary heroes, publishers, magazines, booksellers—all of whom connect over great books and conversations.
Learn more about Twin Cities Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Books by the Banks
Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Books by the Banks
Email: contact@booksbythebanks.orgDescription:
More than 5,000 people and more than 150 authors made the 2015 Books by the Banks book festival our biggest year yet. Our planning teams are already getting ready for 2016. But first, take a look back at what people had to say about our most recent festival. We hope you had as much as fun as they did. See you in 2016!
Learn more about Books by the Banks on AALBC.com.
Southern Festival of Books
Nashville, Tennessee,
Hosted by: Humanities Tennessee
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Southern Festival of Books
Description:
The Southern Festival of Books: A Celebration of the Written WordSM is a three-day Festival celebrated each year during the second full weekend of October. It is free and open to the public. No advance registration or tickets are required. All seating is on a first-come basis.The Festival annually welcomes more than 200 authors from throughout the nation and in every genre for readings, panel discussions and book signings. Book lovers have the opportunity to hear from and meet some of America’s foremost writers in fiction, history, mystery, food, biography, travel, poetry and children’s literature among others.
Learn more about Southern Festival of Books on AALBC.com.
West Virginia Book Festival
Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, West Virginia
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: West Virginia Book Festival
Email: WVBookFestival@kanawhalibrary.orgDescription:
Learn more about West Virginia Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Literary Festival of Charlotte
Little Rock Cultural Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Literary Festival of Charlotte
Description:
One of the best highlights from our 2014 event that embodies the push for literacy was the inspiring reading by Kyla McKenzie, the promising child author of My God is Awesome. She was only 5 yrs old when she convinced her mom to support her vision.We know there are more Kyla’s in the region and want to find, support, and empower them. While each year’s event is supposed to be fun and memorable, the intent is to make it meaningful and provide a means and outlet to help close the literacy gaps that ultimately affects everyone.
Learn more about Literary Festival of Charlotte on AALBC.com.
Collingswood Book Festival
Along Haddon Avenue, Downtown Collingswood, NJ, Collingswood, New Jersey
Hosted by: Collingswood Public Library
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Collingswood Book Festival
Email: nfo@collingswoodbookfestival.comDescription:
Book lovers of all ages: join us on Saturday, October 7, 2017. Stroll more than six blocks of Haddon Avenue filled with authors/speakers for adults and children, as well as booksellers, storytellers, poetry readings, workshops, exhibitors, kid-friendly activities, and entertainment for all ages. This award-winning festival is the longest-running, largest literary event in the Delaware Valley. Remember, all events are free!
High Desert Book Festival
Victorville, California, 14343 Civic Drive
Hosted by: Victor Valley Arts and Education Center
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: High Desert Book Festival
Email: hdbookfest@gmail.comDescription:
The High Desert Book Festival will include lectures and book signings by guest authors, booths for our many local published writers, lectures on the writing craft, a small indie publishing house, speakers who are professionals in their field, book-related merchandise for sale, and a children’s book corner with storytelling.
Learn more about High Desert Book Festival on AALBC.com.
York Book Expo
Wisehaven Event Center, York, Pennsylvania
Hosted by: Demi Stevens
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: York Book Expo
Email: demi@yotbpress.comDescription:
There’s something for all ages to experience at York Book Expo. You will be able to buy books from more than 100 authors, and have them personalized and autographed, too! Kids can read to the Happy Tails Therapy Dogs, and enjoy awesome crafts and activities all day. Aspiring writers can sign up for free writing workshops.
Learn more about York Book Expo on AALBC.com.
SCIBA Trade Show
Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center, Pomona, California
Hosted by: The Southern California Independent Booksellers Association
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: SCIBA Trade Show
Phone: 909-938-5809
Email: andrea@scibabooks.orgDescription:
The Southern California Independent Booksellers Association (SCIBA) is a non-profit trade association of independent booksellers, book wholesalers, publishers and other industry professionals located primarily in Southern California and Southern Nevada.
Learn more about SCIBA Trade Show on AALBC.com.
Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival
Los Gatos Library, Friends of The Library, Village House of Books, NUMU, Los Gatos Lodge, Hotel Los Gatos, Gallery 24 and C.B. Hannegan’s., Los Gatos, California
Hosted by: Irish Culture Bay Area
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival
Phone: 415 640-3840
Email: writersweeklosgatos@gmail.comDescription:
In the tradition of Ireland’s famous Writers’ Week in Listowel. Enjoy readings, speaker events, panel discussions and in-conversation events with some of today’s top writers in the charming town of Los Gatos.
Learn more about Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival on AALBC.com.
Virginia Children’s Book Festival
Longwood University, Farmville, Farmville, Virginia
Hosted by: Longwood University
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Virginia Children’s Book Festival
Email: info@vachildrensbookfestival.comDescription:
The Virginia Children’s Book Festival will bring together prominent children’s authors and illustrators and the general public in an annual event designed to foster the enjoyment of children’s literature.The Virginia Children’s Book Festival will be available to the public without an entrance fee. Children, parents, grandparents, book collectors, and interested members of the public are welcome to attend.
Learn more about Virginia Children’s Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Brattleboro Literary Festival
Brattleboro, Vermont,
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Brattleboro Literary Festival
Phone: 802-579-7414
Email: vtbookfest@gmail.comDescription:
The Festival is a four-day celebration of those who read books, those who write books, and of the books themselves. Located in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont, the Festival includes readings, panel discussions, and special events, featuring emerging and established authors. All events are FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Learn more about Brattleboro Literary Festival on AALBC.com.
Vancouver Writers Fest
Granville Island, and two off Site Venues, Vancouver, Canada
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Vancouver Writers Fest
Phone: 604-681-6330
Email: info@writersfest.bc.caDescription:
The Vancouver Writers Fest turns reading into a community experience, bringing people together to share thoughts, explore ideas, and witness brilliant conversations.For the past 30 years, the Writers Fest has enriched our imaginations and the culture of our city and has touched and inspired thousands of lives by creating a forum for authors to connect with readers and by offering a vibrant exchange of ideas and conversation.
The Festival is a celebration of story, told by authors, poets, spoken word performers, and graphic novelists.
Learn more about Vancouver Writers Fest on AALBC.com.
East of the River Book Festival
Rocketship Rise Academy, Washington, District of Columbia
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: East of the River Book Festival
Phone: 202-997-4441
Email: info@eotrbookfest.comDescription:
The 2017 East of the River Book Festival is a magnet for city dwellers from all wards to recognize and enjoy a literary event that highlights the efforts of indie writers, small publishers and tiny book shops. For the fourth year, it is a place that is fertile ground to plant ideas to meet the need of culturally diverse books that reflect places and characters that are typically on the fringe of society or omitted. This book festival is a celebration of those places and characters, both real and imaginary, to be central to stories that reflect different perspectives. This literary festival is the headquarters for diverse books for children, teens and adults in the DC area.
Learn more about East of the River Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Fort Worth BookFest
Various, Fort Worth, Texas
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Fort Worth BookFest
Email: fwbookfest2017@gmail.comDescription:
Organized in April 2016, a cross-cultural, community-driven Action Group is spearheading the Fort Worth BookFest effort. Our Group has attracted broad support throughout the community among individuals, organizations, elected officials, and institutions.Our goal is to raise awareness of the transformative power of literacy through the BookFest platform to showcase the wealth of talent among all cultures that call Fort Worth and the southwest region (our marketing area – TX, NM, OK, AR, and LA) home. We have collaborated with Max Rodriguez, founder and producer of the famed Harlem Book Fair for his 18-years of Book Fair production experience.
Learn more about Fort Worth BookFest on AALBC.com.
Read My World
Amsterdam, Netherlands,
Date: October 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Read My World
Email: info@readmyworld.nlDescription:
Read My World is the international literature festival of Amsterdam. Going beyond the commonplace, Read My World explores the boundaries between literature and journalism, between here and there and draws attention to everything in between. Next year’s edition takes place in October in the Tolhuistuin in Amsterdam North, with a special focus on journalism, literature and stories from Black USA.
Learn more about Read My World on AALBC.com.
National Black Book Festival
Fallbrook Church / Gymnasium, Houston, Texas
Hosted by: Cushcity.com
Dates: Saturday, August 25, 2018 to Monday, August 27, 2018Website: National Black Book Festival
Phone: 1-800-340-5454
Email: info@nationalblackbookfestival.comDescription:
2017 is the Festival’s 10th Anniversary!The National Black Book Festival (NBBF) is an annual event, sponsored by Cushcity.com, the world’s largest African-American retailer online. The event attracts a wide array of authors, publishers, book clubs, libraries and individual readers from the Southwest U.S. and nationwide.
Learn more about National Black Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Wimbledon BookFest
Wimbledon Common, London, United Kingdom
Dates: Thursday, October 4, 2018 to Sunday, October 14, 2018
Website: Wimbledon BookFest
Email: info@wimbledonbookfest.orgDescription:
It was founded in 2006 by Fiona Razvi and Tony Kane whose ambition was to develop the arts and cultural offering in the area. The public festival takes place in early October in a “pop up” festival site on Wimbledon Common in its Baillie Gifford Big Tent and William Morris Tent. It hosts almost 100 events in its 10 day period and has grown from 1,000 visitors in its first year to over 15,000 with 7,000 school children from over 60 schools now enjoying the festival every year.
Learn more about Wimbledon BookFest on AALBC.com.
New York Comic Con
Javitz Center, New York, New York
Hosted by: ReedPOP Events
Dates: Thursday, October 4, 2018 to Sunday, October 7, 2018Website: New York Comic Con
Email: Inquiry@NYComicCon.comDescription:
“…if you’re a speculative fiction author (horror, fantasy, paranormal, urban fantasy, sci-fi, etc.) you should definitely go”—Cerece Rennie MurphyNew York Comic Con is the East Coast’s biggest and most exciting popular culture convention. Our Show Floor plays host to the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television.
Learn more about New York Comic Con on AALBC.com.
Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair)
Frankfurt Trade Fair Grounds, Frankfurt, Germany
Hosted by: Frankfurter Buchmesse GmbH
Dates: Wednesday, October 10, 2018 to Sunday, October 14, 2018Website: Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair)
Email: contact@book-fair.comDescription:
Authors read this if you plan to attend.
The Frankfurt Book Fair is perhaps the world’s largest trade fair for books, based on the number of participating publishing companies and attendees.
Learn more about Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair) on AALBC.com.
The Cavalcade of Authors
Atlantis Resorts , Paradise Island, Bahamas
Hosted by: Marcro Marketing and Promotions Group
Dates: Friday, October 12, 2018 to Sunday, October 14, 2018Website: The Cavalcade of Authors
Phone: 888.854.8823Description:
The Cavalcade of Authors is the ultimate event where readers and book clubs tour Chicago with their favorite authors. Join us for a weekend of private dinners, intimate chats, dancing, shopping, games, and so much more.
Learn more about The Cavalcade of Authors on AALBC.com.
Morristown Festival of Books
Morristown, New Jersey,
Dates: Friday, October 12, 2018 to Saturday, October 13, 2018
Website: Morristown Festival of Books
Email: info@morristownbooks.orgDescription:
The Morristown Festival of Books celebrates the power of the written word to challenge, transport and transform us, while bringing together our community in conversation.Modeled after successful book festivals in other communities throughout the world, the Morristown Festival of Books brings together acclaimed authors with readers and book lovers.
Learn more about Morristown Festival of Books on AALBC.com.
International Festival of Authors
Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, Canada
Hosted by: IFOA
Dates: Thursday, October 18, 2018 to Sunday, October 28, 2018Website: International Festival of Authors
Phone: 416-973-4760
Email: info@ifoa.orgDescription:
Since its inception in 1974, Toronto’s International Festival of Authors has welcomed more than 9,000 authors from over 100 countries, including 22 Nobel Laureates and countless other award winners.IFOA presents the finest international novelists, poets, playwrights, short story writers and biographers, and provides Canadian writers with an internationally recognized forum in which to present their work.
Incorporated in 1986 as a non-profit organization with a mandate to cultivate and advance the cause of literature, IFOA is home to a weekly event series (September to June), the annual International Festival of Authors (October) and ALOUD: a Celebration for Young Readers with Forest of Reading® Festival of Trees™ (May), presented with the Ontario Library Association. IFOA also runs Toronto Lit Up, a three-year programme supported by the Toronto Arts Council (TAC) that helps launch and promote the work of local authors.
In 2006, IFOA introduced its touring programme, IFOA Ontario, which now visits communities in numerous cities and towns across the province.
Learn more about International Festival of Authors on AALBC.com.
The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat
Doubletree Resorts, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Hosted by: Vanessa Miller
Dates: Thursday, October 18, 2018 to Monday, October 22, 2018Website: The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat
Email: info@christianbookloversretreat.comDescription:
The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat is all about Faith, Fun, Fellowship… and a whole lot of books. The first day of the retreat is jam packed with socials, game shows, and parties. The next day kicks off with praise and worship and then it’s all about author book discussions and more
Learn more about The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat on AALBC.com.
Vegas Valley Book Festival
Las Vegas, Nevada,
Date: Saturday, October 20, 2018
Time:Website: Vegas Valley Book Festival
Phone: 702.229.5902
Email: plharris@lasvegasnevada.govDescription:
The Vegas Valley Book Festival, now in its fifteenth year, is a celebration of the written, spoken, and illustrated word. The festival has networked together a community-wide consortium of cultural organizations and sponsors to offer “a one-stop shopping experience for literature” through a wide range of programs built around sharing resources, developing audiences, advancing the craft of writing, and sharing the joys of reading. This annual festival is the largest literary event in Nevada, drawing more that 10,000 attendees during the season. Since its founding in 2002, the festival has presented over 800 authors and speakers and has produced or sponsored over 500 events, sessions, readings, workshops, and book signings. The festival is free and open to the public.
Learn more about Vegas Valley Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Florida
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
Email: LSHELTON@TAMPABAY.COMDescription:
Book. Music. Authors. Food.
Learn more about Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading on AALBC.com.
Kentucky Book Fair
Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park, Frankfort, Kentucky
Hosted by: The Kentucky Humanities Council and The Kentucky Book Fair
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Kentucky Book Fair
Email: kybookfair@ky.govDescription:
About the Kentucky Book Fair: Since its inception in 1981, the Kentucky Book Fair has been connecting readers and authors in a celebration of shared passion and mutual interest: the importance of reading and writing. Each year, more than 170 local and national authors participate in the event, signing their latest books and meeting readers from Kentucky and surrounding states.
Learn more about Kentucky Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Texas Book Festival
State Capitol and surrounding grounds, Austin, Texas
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Texas Book Festival
Email: bookfest@texasbookfestival.orgDescription:
The Texas Book Festival (#TXBOOKFEST) celebrates authors and their contributions to the culture of literacy, ideas, and imagination.The Texas Book Festival was established in 1995 by Laura Bush, a former librarian and an ardent advocate of literacy. Along with Mary Margaret Farabee, founding co-chair, Mrs. Bush created a task force to plan a book festival to honor Texas authors, promote the joys of reading and serve to benefit the state’s public libraries. The first Festival took place at the Capitol in November 1996.
The signature event has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and takes place in and around the State Capitol in Austin, hosting about 250 authors each year. More than 40,000 book lovers of all ages attend the Festival annually, enjoying author readings and presentations, panel discussions, book signings, cooking demonstrations, live music, local food, YA authors, children’s activities, and exhibiting vendors from across the state. While remaining an important showcase for the work of Texas authors, the Texas Book Festival hosts important writers from all over the world and has earned a national reputation for the quality of its programming and its appeal to readers, authors, and publishers alike.
Learn more about Texas Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Wisconsin Book Festival
Madison Public Library, Madison, Wisconsin
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Wisconsin Book Festival
Email: bookfest@mplfoundation.orgDescription:
The Wisconsin Book Festival is Wisconsin’s premier literary event. Every October we draw a local and regional audience of 12,000-15,000 people for four days of author events. Our year-round series of events has drawn more than 15,000 people to an additional 75 events over the past two years. Madison’s proximity to Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, and Iowa City makes it an easy addition to any tour through the Midwest. As the State Capitol and home to the University of Wisconsin, Madison boasts an engaged and active literary community who have shown a dedication to supporting great author programming.
Learn more about Wisconsin Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival
Portland Art Museum , Portland, Oregon
Hosted by: Literary Arts
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival
Phone: 503.227.2583
Email: la@literary-arts.org
Price: $15Description:
The festival will include author discussions and activities for readers of all ages, an extensive book fair, pop-up readings and concerts, a beverage garden, and local food trucks.
Learn more about Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Bluffton Book Festival
Calhoun Street in Historic Old Town Bluffton, Bluffton, South Carolina
Hosted by: Rockelle Henderson
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Bluffton Book Festival
Phone: 843-707-6409
Email: blufftonbookfestival@gmail.comDescription:
The Bluffton Book Festival’s mission is to raise money for two non-profit organizations that support literacy, education, reading, authors, bookselling and the publishing community as a whole and to bring awareness to local and national literary talent in the process.
Learn more about Bluffton Book Festival on AALBC.com.
National Book Awards
New York, New York,
Hosted by: National Book Foundation
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: National Book Awards
Description:
Attendance by invitation only. Watch vidoes the 67th annual National Book Awards (2016), hosted by Larry Wilmore
Learn more about National Book Awards on AALBC.com.
Ake Arts and Book Festival
Arts and Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun, Nigeria
Hosted by: The Book Buzz Foundation
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Ake Arts and Book Festival
Email: info@akefestival.orgDescription:
The Book Buzz Foundation is a non-governmental organisation founded by teacher and writer, Lola Shoneyin. The Board of Trustees include Ms Mojisola Adeniran, Abubakar Adam Ibrahim, and Dr Soji Adelaja.The main aims of the Book Buzz Foundation are three fold:
- To promote literacy, especially amongst children of school-going age
- To develop reading spaces
- To organise literary and cultural events
Through our Project Inspire! initiative which takes place during the Ake Arts and Book Festival, we organise school visits so that accomplished and prominent creatives meet and interact with school children. Ake Festival guests read tho the children, share their experiences and talk to them about the importance of reading and writing. The children are truly inspired by these visits but Ake Festival guests have found it to be a valuable experience.
Learn more about Ake Arts and Book Festival on AALBC.com.
Children’s Africana Book Awards Festival
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Washington, District of Columbia
Hosted by: Africa Access
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Children’s Africana Book Awards Festival
Email: africaaccess@aol.comDescription:
children can learn to spin a yarn and weave a story, based on tales from Ghana, Morocco and Ivory Coast. A panel of Current and past CABA winners CABA authors/illustrators is featured from 11:30 – 12:30. Current and past CABA winners will be signing their books after the panel discussion. The museum is also opening its newest exhibit, Visionary: Viewpoints on Africa’s Arts. The event is free and open to the public.
Learn more about Children’s Africana Book Awards Festival on AALBC.com.
Sharjah International Book Fair
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates,
Hosted by: Sharjah Book Authority
Date: November 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Sharjah International Book Fair
Email: info@sibf.comDescription:
The Sharjah International Book Fair is one of the showcase events of the Government of Sharjah and, with a history spanning 34 years, this event is more than a typical book exhibition, it is an institution that can give an insider’s glimpse at authentic Arab culture.
Learn more about Sharjah International Book Fair on AALBC.com.
Miami Book Fair International
Miami, Florida,
Hosted by: Miami Dade College
Dates: Friday, November 16, 2018 to Sunday, November 18, 2018Website: Miami Book Fair International
Phone: 305-237-3258Description:
The first Miami Book Fair International, founded by Miami Dade College and community partners, took place in 1984. Since then, it has been recognized as the nation’s finest literary festival. In 2001, the Fair became part of The Center for Writing and Literature @ Miami Dade College, a cultural and academic initiative that promotes the advancement and appreciation of literature throughout the year.
Learn more about Miami Book Fair International on AALBC.com.
Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete
Settepani, New York, New York
Date: December 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete
Phone: 917-492-4806
Email: annualharlemfete@gmail.comDescription:
Learn more about Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete on AALBC.com.
Magical Mirrors Book Fair
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe, Washington, District of Columbia
Date: December 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Magical Mirrors Book Fair
Phone: 202-234-4755Description:
Magical Mirrors Children’s Book Fair features books full of images and imaginations of children of the African Diaspora.
Learn more about Magical Mirrors Book Fair on AALBC.com.
F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival
Midtown Cultural and Educational Center, Daytona Beach, Florida
Hosted by: Donna M. Gray-Banks
Date: December 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival
Phone: 386-627-4353
Email: freshbookfestivals@gmail.comDescription:
Fiction, Romance, Erotica, Spirituality, Health and more!
Abantu Book Festival
Eyethu Lifestyle Centre & Soweto Theatre, Soweto, South Africa
Date: December 2018 – Dates to be Announced
Website: Abantu Book Festival
Email: molweni@abantubookfestival.co.zaDescription:
Abantu Book Festival is an annual literary event held in Soweto, South African’s artistic heartland, featuring authors from South Africa, Africa, and the diaspora. Abantu is the Nguni word for people, which makes this the people’s festival. Our vision is simple—We see a Soweto with a vibrant culture of reading.
Literary Writers Conference. New York City.
New York, New York,
Hosted by: Community of Literary Magazines and Presses, CLMP
Date: December 2018 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Literary Writers Conference. New York City.
Description:
The conference for the serious writer of fiction, nonfiction and poetry.
Learn more about Literary Writers Conference. New York City. on AALBC.com.
Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival
Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa, Florida
Hosted by: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Inc.
Date: January 2019 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival
Phone: 888-224-1733 ext. 3143
Email: programs@tampablackheritage.org
Price: $10Description:
The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival is an annual, cultural arts & music festival that takes place over the course of 10 days in Tampa Bay, Florida. They host an Author Village. Check out AALBC.com’s coverage of the Author Village in 2017
SDSU Writers’ Conference
San Diego Marriott Mission Valley Hotel, San Diego, California
Hosted by: San Diego State University College of Extended Studies
Dates: Thursday, January 31, 2019 to Saturday, February 2, 2019Website: SDSU Writers’ Conference
Email: sdsuwritersconference@mail.sdsu.eduDescription:
Whether you’re a beginning writer or a published professional, the San Diego State University Writers’ Conference is for you. Over 30 years old, this conference is designed to help every writer at every level. Learn how to improve your writing skills, develop your marketing awareness, and meet one-on-one with top editors and agents to facilitate the next step in your publishing career.After 33 years, the SDSU Writers’ Conference did not hold a 2018 conference the next one will be held in 2019.
National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium
Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York
Hosted by: The Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, CUNY
Date: March 2019 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium
Phone: 718-804-8883
Email: writers@mec.cuny.eduDescription:
“Our Miss Brooks: A Centennial Celebration”The Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, CUNY, will pay tribute to the legacy of Gwendolyn Brooks. The “Our Miss Brooks: A Centennial Celebration” program will include reflections on Brooks&rtsquo; life, a discussion of the impact and significance of her literary works, and dramatic presentations from and inspired by her passionate and vigorous works. Dr. Haki R. Madhubuti, Cheryl Clarke, Angela Jackson,Quraysh Ali Lansana, Marilyn Nelson, and Nicole Sealey are among the participants featured on the program.
General Donation: $10 in advance; ($5 for students with ID, faculty, and seniors); and price goes up on-site.
Learn more about National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium on AALBC.com.
Mosaic Literary Conference
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, Bronx, New York
Hosted by: The Literary Freedom Project
Date: November 2019 – Dates to be AnnouncedWebsite: Mosaic Literary Conference
Phone: 347-454-2161
Email: ron@literaryfreedom.orgDescription:
The Mosaic Literary Conference provides a platform for literature-based creative thinking and knowledge sharing. Each year we invite educators, community and arts organizations, as well as the public to participate in a variety of workshops. This conference was founded by Ron KavanaughLearn more about Mosaic Literary Conference on AALBC.com.
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