Carmel-by-the-Sea Book Festival

SECOND ANNUAL
Carmel-by-the-Sea Book Festival
A literary day in one of California's most storied villages.
Saturday, July 18, 2026  ·  Carmel Plaza  ·  Free Admission
Join us in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea for a day devoted to stories, creativity, and the people who love them. The Carmel-by-the-Sea Book Festival brings together authors, readers, and writers for a vibrant, walkable literary experience at Carmel Plaza. Whether you're discovering your next favorite read, meeting the author behind it, or simply soaking in the atmosphere — this is a day to slow down, explore, and be inspired.
 

MORNING PROGRAM
Authors Panel: Stories that Stay With You 
9:30 – 10:30 AM
Begin your day with an intimate gathering of celebrated authors who call Carmel home—a place long known for inspiring writers, artists, and storytellers. This dynamic panel brings together three powerful voices whose work explores the complexities of family, identity, resilience, and the ties that shape our lives.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Jane Smiley in conversation with fellow Carmel authors Meredith May and Lisa Crawford Watson. Together, they offer distinct perspectives shaped by personal journeys, creative exploration, and a shared sense of place.

Jane Smiley — Author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel A Thousand Acres, Smiley is one of America’s most celebrated literary voices, known for her richly layered storytelling and insight into the complexities of human relationships.

Meredith May — Award-winning journalist and author of the international bestselling memoir The Honey Bus. A fifth-generation beekeeper, her work reflects themes of resilience, healing, and connection to the natural world.

Lisa Crawford Watson — Author of What We Wished For, a deeply personal adoption story exploring identity, belonging, and the meaning of family.

Moderator: This conversation will be guided by feature journalist and author Alison van Diggelen, whose book The Love Project explores the many dimensions of love through personal, place-based conversations.

BOOK EXPO
A Marketplace of Ideas
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Step into a lively gathering of 30+ authors and exhibitors spanning genres, voices, and perspectives — all within the walkable heart of Carmel Plaza.

• Meet local and regional authors
• Discover debut voices and unexpected finds
• Purchase signed copies directly from the writers themselves
• Enjoy storytime for children throughout the day
• Enter hourly raffles featuring books and gift cards to local restaurants and shops

Afternoon PROGRAM
The Love Project & Hearts of Carmel Unveiling

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Close the day with an intimate conversation celebrating storytelling, connection, and the creative spirit that defines Carmel-by-the-Sea. This special closing session features journalist and local author Alison van Diggelen discussing her book The Love Project — a collection of thoughtful, place-based conversations exploring the many dimensions of love, human connection, and community.

Through personal stories and reflections gathered from voices around the world and here at home, Alison’s work invites audiences to consider the ways love shapes identity, relationships, resilience, and belonging.

Following the conversation, guests will be among the first to experience the unveiling of the 2026 Hearts of Carmel collection — a beloved public art initiative celebrating creativity, community, and the heart of Carmel. Meet participating artists, preview the newly revealed heart sculptures, and help launch the next chapter of this cherished community tradition.

An inspiring close to a day devoted to books, art, storytelling, and the people who bring them to life.

• Spend a morning with authors in an intimate, unhurried setting
• Browse a curated gathering of books across every genre
• Support independent writers and local small businesses
• Enjoy a beautiful coastal day in the village

• Connect with fellow authors and the broader creative community
• Find readers who are genuinely looking for their next great book
• Be part of a growing literary tradition in one of California's most beloved towns

• One 6-foot table and two chairs
• Placement on the event website
• Listing in the printed event program
• On-site event signage

Authors Expo Table - $50 
Bookstores & Retailers $ 150 Chamber Members / $200 non-members
Space is limited. Early registration is recommended.

SPONSORSHIP
Support Something That Lasts
Align your brand with a signature cultural event celebrating literature, creativity, and community in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Sponsors receive visibility across event marketing, on-site signage, website and program recognition, and direct engagement with an audience that values craft, quality, and local culture.
Sponsorship tiers available — contact us to learn more about partnership opportunities.

LOCATION
Find Us at Carmel Plaza
Ocean Ave & Mission St
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Free admission · Parking available nearby