National Book Festival

Washington, DC — Held Annually

The National Book Festival is a free, day-long celebration of reading, literacy, and storytelling, drawing more than 120,000 book lovers to Washington, DC each year. Hosted by the Library of Congress, the festival brings together bestselling authors, poets, and illustrators across nearly every genre for readings, conversations, and book signings.

Founded in 2001 by the Library of Congress and then-First Lady Laura Bush, the National Book Festival has grown into one of the country’s largest literary gatherings, offering something for readers of all ages.

When It Happens

The festival is held annually, typically in late August. Exact dates and the full author lineup are announced each year on the Library of Congress website.

What to Expect

Authors read from their latest work and sign books for fans throughout the day across a series of themed pavilions, including:

• Children’s and Teens’ pavilions
• Fiction & Mystery
• History & Biography
• Contemporary Life
• Poetry & Prose
• Let’s Read America (family reading activities)
• Pavilion of the States (library and literacy programs from around the country)
• Book sales pavilion

Travel Tips

Check out the full list of authors at www.loc.gov/bookfest. As the actual date approaches, the Library of Congress will add speaking and signing times to each author’s bio, so if there’s someone you especially want to see you’ll know when to be where. On the site, you can view all of the up to date event information.

The 2026 National Book Festival will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Travel Information National Book Festival Walter E. Washington Convention Center Washington, DC 202.707.5000 Hours: Check out the schedule online. Admission: Free Parking: Parking is available near the Convention Center. Metrorail: Yellow and Green line to the Mt Vernon Sq/7th St-Convention Center Station.