Bay Area Book Festival

Plan your visit at the Bay Area Book Festival—an annual Berkeley tradition that celebrates the best of the literary world!

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Calling all book worms and writers! Every year, downtown Berkeley transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity and inspiration as the Bay Area Book Festival takes place. From writers workshops and panel discussions to live performances and local vendors, there is no shortage of diverse experiences and activities. Along with featuring legendary and talented authors from around the country, this event invites storytellers and poets of all ages to enrich their skills and connect with fellow writers.

This event will feature a Family Day, a Writers’ Day, and a Democracy Day. Whether you’re looking for new ways to appreciate our arts and culture scene or planning to establish your narrative in the literary world, the Bay Area Book Festival has something for everyone.

When & Where

The Bay Area Book Festival will run from May 31 to June 1, 2025 at an array of different locations in downtown Berkeley. For more information about the schedule, visit the official website of the Bay Area Book Festival here.

Admission

The Bay Area Book Festival is free for all event-goers! However, certain experiences like the headliner events may require tickets. Check out ticket information on the Bay Area Book Festival website.

Featured Experiences

• Guest Speaker Lineup - Listen to an array of guest authors and poets that will discuss a variety of writing topics. Previous guest speakers include writers such as Viet Thanh Nguyen, Amy Tan, Joan Baez, and Joyce Carol Oates.
• Writers’ Workshops & Pitch Sessions - Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a variety of workshops and pitch sessions during the Bay Area Book Festival, from writing in different genres to discussing creative processes.
• Local Vendors - Shop ‘til you drop from local booksellers at the festival! From secondhand treasures to new editions, fill up your shelves with one-of-a-kind stories and poetry.

Festival Map

Where to Stay

Looking for places to stay near the Bay Area Book Festival? There are plenty of top-tier accommodations in Berkeley, offering budget-friendly and luxury suites. Enjoy pet-friendly services, modern amenities, and a close proximity to Berkeley’s top attractions.