The Bay Area Book Festival returns to Downtown Berkeley from May 29–31, 2026, for its 12th annual celebration. - Nearly 400 authors will participate in over 120 panels and workshops across 21 stages.
- The festival's theme, 'Writing the Future,' emphasizes civic engagement and imagination. - Free programming includes YouthLit, Writers' Workshops, Democracy Dialogues, and the Bookworm Block Party.
- Ticketed headliner events feature authors like Nnedi Okorafor, Rebecca Solnit, and Tananarive Due. The festival, presented by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, aims to foster community and dialogue through literature.