Are you into books? Then book festivals are where you want to be in 2026. They’re the perfect place to meet your favorite authors, connect with fellow literary enthusiasts, and discuss the books you love—while also discovering new titles, writers, book clubs, and more.
Are you in the middle of writing your first novel, or just toying with the idea? Festivals are a great way to connect with other writers, editors, and potential publishers—or to get inspired. Below are some book festivals around the country and near you. Plan to stop by and mingle with people who truly get you—and the books you love.
Just be sure to check the festival website for updated details, date and time confirmation.
SOUTH
Charlotte African American Book Festival — Charlotte, N.C.
Date: June 2026
About: A community-focused celebration of Black literature featuring author appearances and signings, readings, and panel discussions spanning adult fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and YA titles; centers emerging authors and Charlotte literary voices.
Website: eventbrite.com/e/charlotte-african-american-book-festival-tickets-1117763423489
National Book Club Conference — Atlanta, Ga.
Date: July 31–Aug 2, 2026
About: Annual reader-centric conference featuring authors’ discussions, book club strategy sessions, and panels across fiction and nonfiction; showcasing emerging and established authors. Attendees include: bestsellers have included thought leader Michael Eric Dyson; politician Andrew Young; former Essence EIC Susan Taylor; spiritualist and teacher Iyanla Vanzant; and bestselling authors Tayari Jones, Kimberla Lawson Ruby, and Sadeqa Johnson.
Website: nationalbookclubconference.com
Black Authors Festival - Atlanta, Ga.
Date: September 12, 2026
About: Held in Atlanta for the first time this year, this festival is an extension of the Sag Harbor, NY Black Authors Festival, which has attracted top Black authors for four consecutive years. Honorees will be Doreen Spencer-Dannelly, the controversial pastor Dr. Jamal H. Bryant, and Dr. Karri Bryant.
Website: blackauthorsfestival.com
Black Writers Weekend — Atlanta, Ga.
Date: July 31–Aug 2, 2026
About: An immersive celebration bringing together Black voices in literature and film, featuring workshops, readings, community panels, and programming for new and aspiring Black writers. Past attendees/speakers have included: Melanie Fiona (Grammy-winning music artist, filmmaker), Ashley Chea (author, filmmaker, and podcaster), STORM (podcaster), J.D. Myall (author and podcaster), Jessica Black (media personality), and filmmakers Tamala Baldwin and Tamra Simmons.
Website: blackwritersweekend.com
Atlanta Black Romance Book Fest — Atlanta, Ga.
Date: May 29–31, 2026
About: Festival focusing on Black romance literature with author panels, book signings, and reader community experiences. A great place for fans, authors, aspiring authors and all lovers of contemporary and romance fiction.
Website: blackromancebookfest.com
Literary Indulgence Book Festival — Jacksonville, Fla.
Date: June (Annual)
About: Newer boutique-style festival focused on local and regional emerging authors in fiction and nonfiction. Created for book lovers and writers with panel talks and community events, including children’s and adult programming.
Website: literaryindulgence.com
JAX Urban Book Festival — Jacksonville, Fla.
Date: January (Annual)
About: Literary event held as part of Jacksonville’s Dreamweek, celebrating community urban literary voices, workshops, and storytelling through both fiction, non-fiction and memoir. Also celebrating Jacksonville’s vibrant arts community.
Website: jaxurbanbookfest.com
SOUTHWEST
National Black Book Festival — Houston, Texas
