Books have a remarkable way of bringing people together. A single story can introduce a new perspective, inspire an important conversation, or simply give a reader a memorable journey through the pages. That spirit of connection will come alive in Winston-Salem as the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 brings authors, readers, publishers, and literary enthusiasts together for a weekend celebrating the enduring power of books.
Citi of Books is proud to participate in this exciting literary gathering on September 26–27, 2026, joining a vibrant community of readers and writers in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The festival’s main street celebration takes place in downtown Winston-Salem on September 26, featuring author talks, readings, book signings, exhibitors, vendors, food trucks, and activities for visitors of all ages. The broader festival weekend continues with special literary programming and keynote events, making it a meaningful celebration for anyone who loves books and the people who create them.
Now celebrating its 21st anniversary, Bookmarks has established itself as the largest annual book festival in the Carolinas. The September 26 street festival will transform downtown Winston-Salem into a lively literary destination, welcoming visitors to explore books across genres while meeting authors and participating in a variety of activities. Admission to the main street festival is free, creating an accessible environment where readers and families can experience the excitement of a major literary event.
For Citi of Books, being part of this celebration represents an opportunity to place our authors and their works in front of new audiences. Each book carries its own perspective, message, and creative identity, and events like Bookmarks provide a welcoming space where those stories can begin new conversations with readers.
One of the most meaningful aspects of a book festival is the personal connection between an author and a reader. Author panels, readings, and signings give visitors an opportunity to hear the voices behind the books, learn about their creative journeys, and discover what inspired their work.
Citi of Books values these encounters because publishing is ultimately about connection. A book may begin with an author’s idea, but its journey continues when a reader opens the first page. Meeting readers at Bookmarks creates an opportunity for authors to see firsthand how their work can resonate with different audiences and communities.
The Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors offers something for readers across generations and interests. The 2026 celebration includes programming across genres, along with exhibitors, vendors, food trucks, and a dedicated children’s area featuring activities and free books for children.
As Winston-Salem prepares for another memorable celebration of literature, Citi of Books looks forward to joining authors, readers, publishers, and literary professionals at the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 on September 26–27. From the energy of the downtown street festival to the conversations surrounding the weekend’s featured authors, the event offers an inspiring reminder of what happens when a community comes together around books.
Citi of Books is proud to be part of that community and to continue creating opportunities for authors and their stories to travel farther. In Winston-Salem, every conversation can lead to a new discovery, every book can open a new door, and every reader can become part of a story that continues long after the festival ends.
Citi of Books at Bookmarks Festival 2026 — bringing authors, readers, and unforgettable stories together, one page at a time.