Western National Parks to Host National Park Experience Pavilion at Tucson Festival of Books

The two-day event will feature author panels, cultural demonstrations, and family-friendly activities to connect visitors with national parks.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Western National Parks (WNP), a nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, will host The National Park Experience Pavilion at the 2026 Tucson Festival of Books on March 14-15. The pavilion will include booths, panels, presentations, and activities for all ages to learn about and experience the history, culture, science, and outdoor recreation of national parks across the western United States.

Why it matters

The Tucson Festival of Books is one of the largest book festivals in the country, drawing thousands of visitors. By hosting a dedicated national parks pavilion, WNP can introduce new audiences to the wonders of America's public lands and hopefully inspire more people to visit and support national parks.

The details

The National Park Experience Pavilion will feature an extensive lineup of panel discussions and presentations with 18 renowned authors, including Craig Childs, Bridget Crocker, and Priyanka Kumar. There will also be special shopping opportunities at The Hubbell Trading Post Tent, where visitors can browse authentic Navajo rugs and jewelry, and The National Parks Store Tent, which will sell apparel, collectibles, and books. Educational activities for kids, such as the annual Junior Ranger Jamboree, will also be part of the pavilion.

  • The Tucson Festival of Books will take place on March 14-15, 2026.
  • The National Park Experience Pavilion will be open during the festival on those two days.

The players

Western National Parks

A nonprofit education and philanthropic partner of the National Park Service that supports parks across the western United States and works to connect new generations to national parks.

Tucson Festival of Books

One of the largest book festivals in the United States, held annually on the University of Arizona's Main Campus mall.

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What’s next

Visitors can find more information about the National Park Experience Pavilion and the full lineup of events at wnp.org/tfob.

The takeaway

The National Park Experience Pavilion at the Tucson Festival of Books provides a unique opportunity for the public to engage with national parks through author talks, cultural demonstrations, educational activities, and shopping experiences that support parks across the western United States.