FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Book Fair at Bel Air Returns August 8 with Nationally Recognized Authors, 110+ Vendors, and Free Family Fun
BEL AIR, MD — Book Fair at Bel Air will return on Saturday, August 8, 2026, bringing together more than 110 authors, artists, bookstores, and literary vendors for a free, family-friendly celebration of reading and storytelling.
The event will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at APGFCU Arena at Harford Community College and is open to the public at no cost.
Presented by Book Fair at Bel Air, a Harford County-based 501(c)(3) literacy nonprofit organization, the event aims to connect readers of all ages with books, authors, and engaging literacy experiences.
This year’s featured authors include Ruta Sepetys, Kristy Boyce, Lindsey Duga, Richard and W.H. Chizmar, Mazey Eddings, Carylee Carrington, and Marc Avery.
In addition to author signings and book sales, attendees can enjoy:
- More than 110 authors and vendors
- Bookstore shopping
- Character visits
- Free photo booth
- Face painting
- Games and prizes
- Interactive crafts and activities
- Opportunities to discover new books and connect with authors
“Book Fair at Bel Air was created to make books and literacy accessible, exciting, and community-centered,” said Samantha Heil, Founder and Executive Director of Book Fair at Bel Air. “We’re proud to offer a free event where readers can meet authors, discover new stories, and experience the joy that books bring.”
The 2026 theme, “Reading is RAD-ical,” draws inspiration from the beloved school book fairs of decades past, combining retro nostalgia with a modern celebration of literacy, storytelling, and community connection.
Since becoming a nonprofit organization in 2026, Book Fair at Bel Air has expanded its literacy programming throughout the year while continuing to grow its flagship annual event.
The event is expected to draw thousands of readers, families, educators, and book lovers from across Maryland and the surrounding region.
Event Details
Book Fair at Bel Air 2026
Saturday, August 8, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
APGFCU Arena at Harford Community College
401 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015
Admission is free and open to all ages.
For more information, visit www.bookfairatbelair.org.
Media Contact:
Samantha Heil
Founder & Executive Director
Book Fair at Bel Air
[email protected]
www.bookfairatbelair.org
About Book Fair at Bel Air
Book Fair at Bel Air is a Harford County-based 501(c)(3) literacy nonprofit dedicated to connecting readers, writers, educators, and families through engaging literary events and community-based literacy initiatives. Its annual book fair brings together authors, vendors, and readers of all ages to celebrate the joy of books.
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