Readers of All Ages Can Attend the Free Festival at Central Library and UTSA Downtown
The San Antonio Book Festival will return Saturday, April 11, 2026, bringing more than 110 authors to downtown for a free, full-day literary event.
Held at the San Antonio Central Library and the University of Texas at San Antonio Downtown Campus, the festival runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is expected to draw more than 20,000 attendees.
Now in its 14th year, the festival features author talks, panel discussions, book signings, food trucks, and activities for children and teens.
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Big Names Headline The 2026 Lineup
This year’s lineup includes nationally recognized and bestselling authors such as Julia Alvarez, George Saunders, Megha Majumdar, Jeff Hiller, and Arnie Segovia.
Organizers say the festival is designed for all types of readers, with genres ranging from memoir and history to romance, horror, and poetry.
“There truly is something for everyone,” said executive director Lisa Ayres.
Special Kickoff Event Adds To Weekend
A new ticketed kickoff event will open the festival weekend on Thursday, April 9, featuring Jenna Bush Hager.
The event celebrates her publishing imprint, Thousand Voices, and the debut novel Liar’s Dice by Juliet Faithfull. It will be held at Central Christian Church and includes a signed copy of the book. Tickets may be purchased here.
Local Voices And National Impact
The festival blends national names with strong Texas and San Antonio representation.
Notable participants include Lawrence Wright, former San Antonio mayors Henry Cisneros, Ron Nirenberg, and Nelson Wolff, along with local authors and community voices.
San Antonio-based chefs from Curry Boys BBQ will also appear with a new cookbook blending Texas barbecue and Thai flavors.
Something For Every Age
Families can expect a full day of programming for children and teens, including author readings, illustrator events, performances, and interactive activities.
The children’s area will include appearances from book characters, live entertainment from Magik Theatre, and free snacks provided by H-E-B.
More Than Books
The festival is about more than books—it’s about reconnecting people to reading.
“Reading reduces stress, strengthens empathy, and sharpens thinking,” Ayres said. “We want to welcome both lifelong readers and those looking to rediscover it.”
All Festival authors can be found at sabookfestival.org, where a detailed schedule is also available with book sales and signings hosted by Nowhere Bookshop.
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