As we begin planning for the 31st annual Texas Book Festival, we’re excited to once again gather readers, writers, and creators for a vibrant weekend devoted to uplifting books and storytelling. Taking place November 14–15, 2026, the Texas Book Festival brings authors from across Texas and beyond to downtown Austin for two days of conversation, connection, and celebration. As one of the largest book festivals in the country, TBF offers published authors a platform to discuss their work with enthusiastic audiences, sell books, and directly engage with readers and fellow members of the literary community through a mix of public and private events.
While the number of featured authors varies annually — from roughly 250 to more than 300 — we anticipate welcoming approximately 275 authors this year. We typically receive over 1,200 Festival submissions each year, which makes our acceptance rate about 23%. Rather than growing our lineup year over year, we’re committed to providing the best possible experience for both authors and attendees. This means making difficult decisions to optimize session attendance, book sales, and visibility for Festival authors. As our alumni roster grows with each passing year, we aim to continue showcasing beloved TBF authors while also creating a platform for new and emerging voices.
Supported by volunteer selection committees composed of authors, scholars, professors, and literary professionals, our team aims to select books and craft a Festival program that offers something for every reader. The 2026 Texas Book Festival will remain free and open to the public — featuring author conversations, author signings, cooking demonstrations, poetry readings, story times, interactive family programming, teen-focused events, and more across approximately 200 sessions. Most sessions feature two or three authors in a panel discussion facilitated by a moderator, with attendance ranging from about 100 to 800 depending on venue. Additionally, we plan to host two to three ticketed sessions with headlining authors in one-on-one conversations.
If you’re an author interested in being considered for the 31st annual Texas Book Festival, we invite you to submit your work. Authors may submit directly or have their publisher or publicist submit on their behalf. Submissions will remain open through Friday, May 1, 2026, and Festival invitations will be extended on a rolling basis throughout the first half of 2026. All official invitations will come via email from me or my colleague, Michelle Hernandez, TBF’s Director of Youth Programs. There is no cost to apply.
We are grateful for the care and creativity that goes into each submission, and we look forward to reading your work!
All my best,
Hannah Gabel, Literary Director
