April Book Festivals
April is National Poetry Month, and there are so many places to celebrate a love of words this month! Attend one of these Poetry or Book Festivals and get involved with your literary community.
Austin International Poetry Festival
April 11-14, 2013
Austin, TX
Now in its 21st year, this open to the public festival has become the “the largest non-juried poetry festival in the U.S.” The festival is a celebration of all poetry and poets!
The events are spread out over fours days and will include readings, open mic times, music and poetry performances, poetry slams, and workshops.
Go to www.aipf.org to find out the event agenda, fees, list of speakers, or to volunteer your time.
Sarah Lawrence College Annual Poetry Festival
April 12-14, 2013
Bronxville, NY
This annual event aims to bring poetry to life. Activities include readings by undergraduate and graduate students as well as featured authors, a small press fair, Spoken Word Night, and a launch party for the College’s literary magazine.
Calls for submissions, a list of confirmed poets attending, and general information can be found at www.slc.edu or their facebook page.
Philadelphia Book Festival
April 14-20, 2013
Philadelphia, PA
The goal of the festival is to spread the love of literacy and books to every neighborhood in Philadelphia. It has expanded from previous years to have events at all 54 library branch locations throughout the city.
Every day will include headlining author appearances in the Parkway Central Library’s Montgomery Auditorium, and signings and readings in libraries all over Philadelphia.
For more information, a festival program, and contact details go to libwww.freelibrary.org/bookfestival/
Southern Kentucky Book Fest
April 19-20, 2013
Bowling Green, KY
The mission of this festival is to “encourage reading and the love of books and to be a positive force in promoting literacy in our region and state.” The event is meant to connect readers and authors, and celebrate literacy for all.
There will be signings, workshops for young writers, and Children’s Book Day.
Go to www.sokybookfest.org to find out more, make a donation, or see a list of participating authors.
Alabama Book Festival
April 20, 2013
Montgomery, AL
Promoting a tradition of reading and literacy for Alabamians of all backgrounds and ages is the main focus of this celebration. The event is free and open to the public.
The day’s events will include book sales, children’s activities, author and poet signings, and scholar presentations. The theme of this year celebrates the Year of Alabama Food.
Find the Student Readers Group selection, a Literary Crossword puzzle, and details of the festival at www.alabamabookfestival.org
LA Times Festival of Books
April 20-21, 2013
University of Southern California, CA
This free festival aims to connect book readers with book creators! It is the largest book festival in the country and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Exhibitors range from booksellers and publishers, to literacy and cultural organizations. There will be panel discussions, readings, author Conversations, and book prize ceremonies.
For maps, latest news updates, info on becoming an exhibitor, and much more, go to events.latimes.com/festivalofbooks/