Winnsboro Celebrates 8th Annual Festival of Books

Downtown streets turn into a literary wonderland with authors, music, and family fun

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:25pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a stack of colorful books in a tight grid pattern, representing the diverse array of literary works and authors featured at the annual Festival of Books in Winnsboro, Texas.The Festival of Books transforms downtown Winnsboro into a celebration of literature, storytelling, and community.Winnsboro Today

The 8th Annual Festival of Books returns to downtown Winnsboro, Texas on May 1-2, 2026, hosted by the Winnsboro Center for the Arts. The free event transforms the town's charming streets into a celebration of stories and storytellers, allowing guests to meet authors, enjoy live music, and participate in a variety of literary activities for all ages.

Why it matters

The Festival of Books is a beloved annual tradition that brings the community together, supports local artists and authors, and fosters a love of reading and the literary arts in Winnsboro and the surrounding region. As a recognized Cultural District and Main Street Community, Winnsboro leverages this event to showcase its vibrant arts scene and historic downtown.

The details

The festival kicks off on Friday, May 1 with a meet-and-greet with featured Texas authors from 6-7 pm, followed by a special performance by legendary singer-songwriter Bob Livingston from 7:30-9 pm. On Saturday, May 2 from 9 am to 3 pm, the event features author readings, spoken word open mic, interactive literacy activities for kids, and the chance to browse, buy, and get books signed by Texas authors along The Bowery. Corduroy, the beloved children's book character, will also be on hand for hugs, high-fives, and photos.

  • The 8th Annual Festival of Books takes place on May 1-2, 2026.
  • The Friday night kickoff event runs from 6-9 pm on May 1.
  • The main festival day is Saturday, May 2 from 9 am to 3 pm.

The players

Winnsboro Center for the Arts

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as a multi-disciplinary arts center for the Winnsboro community and Northeast Texas region, hosting educational programming, cultural experiences, and entertainment.

Bob Livingston

A pioneering Texas singer-songwriter and member of the legendary Lost Gonzo Band, which helped shape the sound of progressive country music in the 1970s. Livingston is the featured author at the festival, sharing excerpts from his memoir 'Gypsy Alibi: A Gonzo Memoir.'

Corduroy

The beloved children's book character who will be making appearances at the festival for hugs, high-fives, and photos with young attendees.

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What they’re saying

“Our annual Festival of Books gives voice to local talent, inspires lifelong readers and creates a shared space where imagination and connection flourish.”

— Mary White, Executive Director, Winnsboro Center for the Arts

What’s next

The Winnsboro Center for the Arts will continue to announce additional festival details, author lineups, and ticket information on their website in the lead-up to the May 1-2 event.

The takeaway

The Festival of Books is a cherished annual tradition that celebrates the literary arts, supports local and regional authors, and brings the Winnsboro community together for a weekend of stories, music, and family-friendly fun in the town's historic downtown district.