American Writers Festival 2026 expands to two days with free events across Chicago

The American Writers Museum and Chicago Public Library have announced the return of the American Writers Festival for summer 2026. This third edition grows to two full days: Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7. All events are free to the public.

On Saturday, programs run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at theAmerican Writers Museum (180 North Michigan Avenue). Attendees also get free museum entry that day, according to the announcement. AWM members can score preferred seats at main events.

Sunday shifts to Harold Washington Library Center (400 South State Street) for the same hours. The AWM will be closed that day. Seating follows first-come, first-served rules.

Star authors headline diverse lineup

According to the press release, headliners include New York Times bestseller Lauren Groff (Brawler, Matrix, Fates and Furies), a three-time National Book Award finalist. Reza Aslan, New York Times bestseller and Emmy-nominated producer, joins with An American Martyr in Persia and Zealot. Comedian John Fugelsang (Separation of Church and Hate) and poet Maggie Smith (You Could Make This Place Beautiful) also feature.

Award-winner Tananarive Due (The Reformatory) will host a chat with Nebula Award finalists, the announcement confirms. Chicago Poet Laureate Mayda del Valle and journalist Bill Kurtis (Whirlwind) round out the stars. More than 80 writers and 40 programs promise variety.

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"We are excited to partner with Chicago Public Library again this year as we bring back the American Writers Festival, a literary celebration that reflects the vibrancy and urgency of the American voice through our country’s diverse and talented writers," said AWM President Carey Cranston, as reported by the press release. “After the success of our past two festivals, we look forward to expanding to a two-day event this June, welcoming guests to the American Writers Museum and Harold Washington Library Center on alternating days for thought-provoking conversations with dozens of bestselling and acclaimed writers across genres.”

The festival goes beyond the traditional book fair. According to the press release, panels cover novels, memoirs, screenwriting, horror, romance, history, and journalism. Attendees can try writing workshops and literary activities. Additionally, Seminary Co-op Bookstore will sell author books on site.

Past events in 2022 and 2024 drew thousands, the announcement stated. Visitamericanwritersfestival.org for the full schedule this spring.