Citi of Books Takes Part in the 21st Annual Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors

There is something special about being surrounded by people who share a genuine love for books. For a weekend, downtown Winston-Salem became a gathering place for readers, authors, families, and literary enthusiasts as the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 celebrated its 21st year. Held from September 26–27, 2026, with the main free festival taking place on Saturday, September 26, the event brought books and authors into the heart of the community through panels, readings, book signings, exhibitors, vendors, and activities for visitors of all ages.

The celebration carried a lively atmosphere throughout downtown Winston-Salem, where attendees had opportunities to discover new books, meet authors, and take part in conversations surrounding literature and storytelling. With more than 50 authors featured across the festival and an audience that draws approximately 20,000 attendees from more than 30 states, Bookmarks has grown into the largest annual book festival in North and South Carolina.

Joining this vibrant literary gathering was Citi of Books, bringing its collection of titles to an audience gathered from different backgrounds and communities. The festival provided an ideal setting for books to be discovered beyond the usual bookstore experience, allowing readers to encounter new titles while exploring the many genres and perspectives represented throughout the event. Citi of Books’ presence added another opportunity for readers to connect with stories and discover works that might otherwise have remained outside their usual reading lists.

What makes Bookmarks particularly engaging is the way it brings literature into a shared community experience. Visitors could move from author panels and readings to book signings, exhibits, vendors, and other activities throughout the festival. Families were also welcomed through a dedicated children’s area featuring games, story time, interactive activities, and a Kids’ Signing Tent, with the festival providing free books for children.

For Citi of Books, participating in the Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors 2026 was an opportunity to be part of a literary environment built around discovery, conversation, and community. Events like this demonstrate how books can create connections between authors and readers while giving stories new spaces to be encountered. From browsing titles to listening to authors share their experiences, the festival offered countless moments that celebrated the simple but lasting impact of a good book.

The 21st annual Bookmarks Festival ultimately served as a reminder that literary events are about more than books displayed on tables. They bring people together, encourage curiosity, create conversations, and give readers opportunities to discover stories from voices they may not have encountered before. With Citi of Books taking part in this year’s celebration, the festival became another meaningful chapter in its continued efforts to bring books and authors closer to readers in different communities.