Annual literary event is a novel way to spend the weekend and it’s only 2 hours from DFW!

Book lovers, storytellers and literary adventurers: get ready to embark on a weekend of words, wonder and whimsey in Winnsboro! The 7th Annual Festival of Books returns to downtown Winnsboro on Friday and Saturday, May 2 and 3. Hosted by Winnsboro Center for the Arts (WCA), this FREE event allows guests to meet and chat with authors from all over Texas and enjoy a variety of literary activities for all ages. The event takes place on The Bowery in downtown Winnsboro, where guests can meander the town’s storybook-like streets and pop in and out of charming shops and eateries. And it’s only a quick two-hour drive from DFW!

This year’s focus is on how writing and sharing one's story benefits mental health, reminding us that every story—including yours—deserves to be told.

FRIDAY, MAY 2, 5:30-8 p.m.: Kick off the festival with a literal celebration! The evening features:

• A Meet & Greet with the festival’s celebrated Texas authors
• A captivating performance by East Texas poet, author and actor Michael Guinn and Friends. Guinn is a two-time National Poetry Slam finalist, five-time Austin Poetry Slam winner, six-time Fort Worth Poetry Slam winner, author of two published poetry collections and mental health advocate.
• Engaging conversations on the art of storytelling and its role in emotional well-being

SATURDAY, MAY 3, 9-3 p.m.: Saturday’s event reads like a charm!

• Chapter and Verse - Guinn returns to emcee the festival which will include recitations by the Fort Worth Poetry Society and author book readings.
• Book Lover’s Marketplace – Browse, buy and get your favorite books signed by Texas authors.
• Storybook Fun for Kids – Kids of all ages will enjoy interactive art & literacy activities, a puppet show that brings stories to life, and hugs and high-fives from Rainbow Fish, the beloved children’s book character who teaches the joy of sharing!
• Rhythm & Words – At 11 a.m. on the Main Stage, Percussion Things brings a high-energy performance combining interactive story-telling, family-friendly comedy and dynamic percussion instruments from around the world, made all the more fun by audience participation!
• "A New Chapter Begins" Open Mic – Share your stories on the Main Stage from 1-2 p.m. Whether you’re a first-time storyteller or a seasoned poet, your voice matters! Sign up on-site for a time slot on the Main Stage.

Throughout the event, book festival guests can meander in and out of downtown Winnsboro’s nine blocks of unique galleries, delightful restaurants and eclectic shops.

“Every great adventure begins with a book, including this one,” said Mary White, WCA acting executive director.  “Our annual Festival of Books is a love letter to books and their readers. And we’re excited to bring our community together to share in that love.”

Winnsboro Center for the Arts (WCA) plays a key role in bringing cultural programming, exhibitions and entertainment to Winnsboro and East Texas. WCA is supported in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Winnsboro’s Cultural Arts District is recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts for its vibrant arts scene. Winnsboro is also recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as part of the Texas Main Street Program for its successful downtown revitalization.

For more information about the Festival of Books event, visit the website.

ABOUT WINNSBORO CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Winnsboro Center for the Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Winnsboro, Texas. As a multi-disciplinary arts center, it serves communities throughout Northeast Texas, engaging people in educational programming, cultural experiences, and entertainment.