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birds and books and bluebonnets

Greater Austin Book Fest

Event Details

A vibrant celebration of local authors, illustrators, and readers!

greater Austin book festival logoSubmissions have Closed for local authors to submit an application to the Greater Austin Book Festival (GAB Fest) to be held on April 26th, 2025. If you'd like to be notified when applications open for the 2026 event, please fill out this brief form.

GAB Fest provides a valuable opportunity for authors, illustrators, and readers from Hays, Williamson, and Travis Counties to establish meaningful connections and engage with their community. 

Meet participating authors, get your books signed, shop with local booksellers, explore the Central Library, and enjoy a full day of panels, workshops, and programs. This event fosters an environment of inclusivity, encouraging individuals to come together and celebrate their appreciation for literature. 

Who do I contact for more information about the Greater Austin Book Fest Program? 

For more information about the Greater Austin Book Fest program, please email APL.Bookfest@austintexas.gov. 

GAB Fest Eligibility

GAB Fest Eligibility link

To be eligible, you must answer “Yes” to all of the following: 

  • I reside in Travis, Williams, or Hays County 
  • I am self-published, published by an independent publishing house, and/or published material through traditional publication means. 
  • I am willing to meet with fellow authors from the local area and interact with readers as well as interact with my local Austin Central Library!  

Authors who are self-published and/or published by an independent press are encouraged to apply. Authors must reside in Travis, Williams, or Hays County. 

GAB Fest Application Frequently Asked Questions

GAB Fest Application Frequently Asked Questions link

Review process: 

What is the application timeline? 
A public call for applications will be launched on October 15, 2024. Applications will be received until 4 p.m. on December 31. 

Eligibility: 

Will self-published works be considered? 
Yes, work that is self-published and/or published with independent publishing companies will be considered. Authors who have published through traditional publishers and/or curators will also be considered. 

Will published authors under the age of 18 be considered? 
Yes, published authors under the age of 18 will be considered! 

GAB Fest Reception Program Details
Authors will have the option to attend our Greater Austin Book Festival Author Reception on the evening of April 25, 2025. More details soon to come! 

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