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
From Page to Place: A Carmel Author Conversation
9:00 – 10:30 AM
Begin your day with an intimate gathering of local authors who will share the stories behind their stories. Hear firsthand about the writing process, the sources of their inspiration, and the winding paths that led them to the page. This is a rare chance to sit with the storytellers shaping our local literary scene — in the town that has long drawn writers and dreamers to its shores.
 

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

• 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