Festival of Books

Newport News Public Library’s Festival of Books will feature local author book sales and book signings, workshops for aspiring authors, writing contests for adults and youth, and free activities for all ages, on Saturday, October 31, 2026, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Main Street Library (110 Main Street).

Twenty-four local authors will be selling and signing copies of their books. Fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, memoirs, poetry, young adult, and children’s books will be available. Book sales will be handled by the participating authors.

Barry Trott, from the Library of Virginia, will highlight the Indie Author Project: a collection of great self-published content from authors across Virginia, as well as tools for authors to create ebooks at 11 a.m. Next Page Publishing and Weird Disciple Publishing will provide expert insights into the publishing process, including the essential steps to take after completing a manuscript at 12 p.m.

An Adult Writing Competition will be held at 1 p.m. where adults will write a 3-sentence horror story within 10 minutes. The adult winner will receive a grand prize basket and trophy. A Youth Writing Competition for ages 8-11 will be held at 1:30 pm where youth will write a 3-sentence scary story within 10 minutes. The youth winner will receive a grand prize basket and a trophy, all youth participants will receive an award.

All ages can enjoy free entertainment and activities, including face painting and giveaways.

Admission to the Festival of Books is free. For more information, call 757-591-4858.