Festivals, Fairs & Special Events
American Writers Festival Day 1 – American Writers Museum June 6, 2026
The American Writers Festival is back and bigger than ever. Two days, two locations. One free literary event in Chicago!
The American Writers Festival is a free literary event co-presented by the American Writers Museum and Chicago Public Library. It features in depth conversations with diverse writers from across genres and backgrounds, all to celebrate the power of the written word. Featured speakers include Lauren Groff, Reza Aslan, Tananarive Due, John Fugelsang, Maggie Smith, Mayda del Valle, Bill Kurtis, Jen Hatmaker, and more. See the full lineup here and the program schedule here!
This year, we have expanded to two days and two locations.
June 6, 2026: American Writers Museum
June 7, 2026: Harold Washington Library Center
With a range of topics discussed and genres represented, the American Writers Festival celebrates the past, promotes the present, and inspires the future of American writing. Children’s storytimes, photo booths, literary crafts and mini writing workshops get adults and kids into the written word, with books for sale and authors signing them!
The American Writers Museum will offer free admission on June 6 and will be closed on June 7. The Harold Washington Library Center is always free.
Learn more about the area
Venue
Special Event Venues, Theaters & Cultural Venues
American Writers Museum
Your Place To Entertain! The American Writers Museum is a colorful and interactive space that can accommodate up to 250 people for any type of…
Neighborhood
Loop
This city center is home to some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and architecture.
Learn more about the area
Venue
Special Event Venues, Theaters & Cultural Venues
American Writers Museum
Your Place To Entertain! The American Writers Museum is a colorful and interactive space that can accommodate up to 250 people for any type of…
Neighborhood
Loop
This city center is home to some of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and architecture.
