The Library of Congress hosts the 2026 National Book Festival on Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. This year the library features an expansion of programming to celebrate the nation’s anniversary and to showcase offerings beyond books to include film, music and American folklife. The festival is free and provides a full day of conversations with authors, poets and illustrators from a variety of genres. The festival offers readings, giveaways and activities for children and young adults, as well as the opportunity to purchase books from the official bookseller. Updates on plans for the National Book Festival will be shared at www.loc.gov/bookfest.
