LBF News & Happenings - Meet the authors, Poetry-to-Order, statewide school tour

Writer connections and perspectives make books come alive at Louisiana Book Festival

On October 31, the 2026 Louisiana Book Festival will welcome over 200 featured writers and presenters representing a multitude of genres including biography, thriller & suspense, politics, fantasy, horror, poetry, true crime, mystery, cookbooks, and more.

The festival has become known among bibliophiles across the nation for its community environment and its many opportunities to interact with authors. Featured writers will participate in book talks, panels, and book signings throughout the day, sharing insight about their work and process with festival attendees.

"Every reader can find something to love at the Louisiana Book Festival," said Executive Director Robert Wilson. "But the real magic is the access. It's not every day you get to chat face-to-face with a favorite writer or get a book signed. We can't wait to welcome book lovers from all over the country back to the streets of downtown Baton Rouge this year."

Don't miss your opportunity to immerse yourself in a day of literary culture like no other. See the current list of LBF featured authors and books here.

Additionally, through the festival's WordShop writing workshops, registrants can learn techniques to improve their writing craft from acclaimed professional authors and editors. These ticketed classes will be held the day before the festival, Friday, October 30, and offer an in-depth, hands-on educational experience for aspiring and seasoned writers alike. Also on October 30, we'll host the annual Authors Party at the State Library of Louisiana. This special event honors the featured writers, poets, panelists and sponsors who contribute their talents and resources to make the festival possible, and we invite you to join them. This evening affair includes music, Louisiana cuisine, beverages and, most importantly, great company! Learn more and purchase tickets here.

The 2026 Louisiana Book Festival takes place Saturday, October 31, in downtown Baton Rouge's historic Capitol Park area. Visit louisianabookfestival.org for the full schedule.

Poetry-to-Order returns! Get your own personalized poem on demand!

This year, make sure your takeaways from the state's signature literary event include a free, personalized poem from our Poetry-to-Order desk! The festival favorite returns again this fall, with poets Cassandra de Alba and GennaRose Nethercott composing custom poetry, written on the topic of your choice by individual request.

What better keepsake could you have from LBF 2026 than an original poem, personalized just for you? Be sure to make time to visit Poetry-to-Order on October 31, located in the main lobby of the State Library of Louisiana from 12 noon until 4 p.m.

Festival's statewide school tour set to roll in October

Participating authors and presenters are helping to spread the word about the Louisiana Book Festival. Musical performer Rick Kelley of "Music with a Message for Kids" will visit dozens of schools and libraries around the state to promote the event. His interactive performances, which involve music, singing, and promotion of literacy, inspire kids to read and find joy in books and libraries.

Kelley's appearances at 24 Louisiana schools will kick off on Monday, October 19, and he will also perform at the St. Mary Parish Library's Berwick Branch and the Jean Lafitte Acadiana Cultural Center in Lafourche Parish on Saturday, October 24. Some of our featured children’s writers will also be making school appearances in the days leading up to the festival, giving young readers the chance to connect with authors through storytimes, book talks, and workshops.

Stay tuned, as we'll be posting the times and locations of children's and teen authors’ appearances at the festival on October 31 at louisianabookfestival.org in the coming days.

Recently confirmed authors and titles to be featured at LBF 2026

Over 200 featured authors and presenters have been confirmed to date for the 2026 Louisiana Book Festival. As our staff completes the lineup, we’ll highlight some of the recently booked participants here. Check out the full list of featured authors and books at LouisianaBookFestival.org.