Dearest gentle reader, bookmark this on your calendar. The largest annual book fair in the Carolinas is happening right here in the Twin City. Bookmarks will host its 19th annual Festival of Books and Authors on Spruce and Poplar Streets in downtown Winston-Salem.
The four-day event brings people of all ages together to celebrate literary works. The annual celebration begins Thursday, Sept. 26 and runs through Sunday, Sept. 29. Here’s what you need to know:
- Don’t get lost in the crowd. Print out or screenshot this festival map to find parking, exhibitor booths, and food trucks.
- Readings and panel discussions will take place on a first-come, first served basis Saturday.
- Want to get your book signed and meet your favorite author? From New York Times best-selling authors to award-winning poets, check out when and where these 50+ authors will be stationed during the festival.
- These special keynote events will keep you hooked. Some are free to attend, but you may want to secure your seat for others like the “2024 Festival: Closing Brunch with Friends and Fiction” featuring authors like Mary Kay Andrews, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Kristin Harmel, and Patti Callahan Henry. Tickets cost $50+ for the Sunday event at Benton Convention Center, which starts at 11 a.m.
To help keep event entry and activities free, enter a $5 raffle for a chance to win prizes like a Festival VIP package for 2025 and tickets to Bookmarks events for one year. You can also contribute by volunteering at the event — positions include guiders and floaters, set up and hospitality crew + info booth volunteers.