The second annual KPBS San Diego Book Festival, presented by the University of San Diego, is back, and it’s shaping up to be a full day for anyone who loves a good book.

This one’s free, open to book lovers of all ages, and honestly, there’s a lot packed into a single Saturday.

A Full Day for Every Kind of Reader

More than 60 award-winning authors will take part in interactive panel sessions and book signings throughout the day, so whether you’re into thrillers, poetry, romance, kids’ books, or nonfiction, there’s a good chance your next favorite author is on the lineup.

The festival will also announce the 2026 One Book, One San Diego selections, always a fun moment for the local reading community.

Kids are just as much a part of this as adults. The youth reading stage and exploration area comes with hands-on activities, plus the chance to meet PBS Kids favorites Daniel Tiger, Clifford the Big Red Dog, and Arthur in person.

More Ways to Enjoy the Day

Beyond the panels, expect poetry readings, music from the KPBS Sun Drenched Sounds series, live entertainment, exhibitors, local authors, independent booksellers, and food trucks scattered throughout the festival.

There’s really something for everyone here, whether you’re coming for the authors or just for a good day out. Even if you don’t leave with a new book, you’ll probably leave with a new favorite food truck find.

A Taste of This Year’s Lineup

With more than 60 authors participating, there’s no way to cover everyone, but a few names are worth knowing before you go:

• Reyna Grande – NYT bestselling author, bringing her new essay collection Migrant Heart
• Alexandra Bracken – debuting her new adult fantasy Immortal Rose
• Amy Chozick – returning with the thriller With Friends Like You
• Michael Hiltzik – Pulitzer Prize winner sharing his sweeping new history, Golden State
• Leon Carroll Jr. – whose Ghosts of Sicily arrives as an instant New York Times bestseller

And that’s just scratching the surface of what’s on the schedule. With a lineup this deep, it’s worth browsing the full author list ahead of time so you know exactly whose panel or signing to prioritize.

See you there!

Sixty-plus authors, a full day of programming, and something for every reader in the family. This is one Saturday worth clearing your calendar for.

📆 Saturday, August 22, 2026 | 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 5998 Alcala Park Way, San Diego
🎟️ Free admission | Grab tickets for select sessions here
ℹ️ Get all the details here

See you there, San Diego!