Read with Jenna Book Festival welcomes book lovers of all ages into a curated celebration of storytelling, community, and discovery. This annual gathering highlights diverse voices, interactive sessions, and immersive experiences designed to connect readers with the books and people behind them.
Whether you are a devoted Jenna fan or exploring the festival for the first time, the event blends author talks, hands-on workshops, and intimate meet-and-greets into a vibrant program that keeps attendees returning year after year.
| Festival Year | Location | Featured Author | Attendance Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Brooklyn Expo Center, New York | Jenna Blum | 8,000 |
| 2023 | Brooklyn Expo Center, New York | Jenna Fischer | 12,000 |
| 2024 | Brooklyn Expo Center, New York | Jenna Bush Hager | 18,000 |
| 2025 | Brooklyn Expo Center, New York | TBA | 22,000 |
Schedule And Daily Programming Insights
The festival organizes each day into clear tracks, allowing attendees to choose between deep-dive author conversations, networking lounges, or creative writing labs. Session times are spaced thoughtfully so participants can move seamlessly between events without feeling rushed.
Author Sessions And Signature Talks
Keynote Highlights
Keynote speakers set the tone for the festival, blending personal narrative with craft insights that resonate with both emerging and established readers. Past keynotes have explored themes of identity, resilience, and the power of community storytelling.
Panel Diversity And Topics
Panels bring together journalists, educators, and creators to discuss timely subjects such as representation in literature, the future of independent bookstores, and the role of digital platforms in shaping reading habits.
Workshops And Interactive Experiences
Hands-on workshops give attendees the chance to write, edit, and share work in small, guided groups led by published authors and industry professionals. Topics range from memoir drafting to narrative nonfiction, with options tailored for teens and adults alike.
Interactive installations, including reading nooks and live illustration stations, encourage families to explore stories together while discovering new genres and formats in welcoming, low-pressure environments.
Community Impact And Accessibility Efforts
Local schools and libraries partner with the festival to provide student tickets, transportation support, and in-class pre-events that extend the experience beyond the expo floor. These collaborations emphasize inclusion and help introduce young readers to a broader literary world.
Organizers prioritize accessibility by offering sign language interpretation, large-print programs, and quiet spaces for neurodivergent attendees, ensuring that Read with Jenna Book Festival remains open to a wide spectrum of readers.
Plan Your Experience And Make The Most Of The Festival
- Register early to secure preferred session times and meet author sign-up slots.
- Review the daily schedule and highlight panels that align with your reading interests.
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before keynote talks to secure good seating.
- Participate in at least one workshop to engage directly with writing prompts and peer feedback.
- Use breaks to explore the expo hall, discover new titles, and connect with booksellers.
- Download the official app for maps, session changes, and real-time author updates.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to stay energized throughout long reading days.
- Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to support the festival community.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is advance registration required to attend the festival?
Yes, registration is required and includes access to all sessions, workshops, and the main expo hall; on-site tickets may be available but are limited.
Are children and teenagers allowed at the event?
Absolutely, families are welcome, with dedicated youth sessions, parent resources, and safe, supervised areas for younger attendees.
Can I get signed copies of books at the festival?
Yes, booksigning slots are scheduled with featured authors, and pre-ordered signed copies are available for pickup at designated tables.
What should I bring to make the most of my visit?
Bring a valid registration badge, comfortable shoes, a notebook, and any books you want signed; consider downloading the festival app for real-time updates.