New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University

About the New Orleans Book Festival

The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University connects readers of all ages and backgrounds with local and national authors through experiences that celebrate the power of literacy and ideas. Each year, the Book Festival is hosted on Tulane's Uptown campus, showcasing national, regional and local authors and featuring a dedicated day of children's and family programming. 

In 2026, the Book Festival welcomed 250 authors and artists for four days of inspiring conversations, readings, and performances, attracting an estimated 20,000 attendees from the broader community. 

Support from the community helps bring renowned authors to New Orleans for the Book Festival, offsets the cost of presenting Family Day at the Fest, and - most importantly - ensures that the Book Festival's offerings remain free and open to the public each year. 

Testimonials

“The Book Fest team has created an incredible literary gathering: a space where ideas, curiosity, and conversation come together in the most New Orleans way possible. Events like this remind us how powerful books can be. They connect us, challenge us, and open the door to new ways of thinking.”

“I can't begin to express what an uplifting enlightening, well-run event this was. Every speaker I saw was superb, and I am smarter for having been there. The vibe of the whole weekend was lively, joyful, and welcoming. I was blown away. I truly hope to return every year.”

“Every session I attended far exceeded expectations and somehow managed to be even better than last year, which hardly seemed possible. I honestly don’t know how you continue to outdo yourself, but this year was nothing short of phenomenal. Speaking with people in line - many of whom traveled from across the country - it was clear that Book Fest is nationally recognized as a truly special, one-of-a-kind event.”