LA Times' Festival of Books hosts its 31st annual event
The Los Angeles Times will host their 31st annual Festival of Books event on April 18-19 at the University of California. Although general admission is free, the festival will feature over 200 author and celebrity panels, ticketed at various price points.
The LA Times has hosted the Festival of Books, an event that celebrates the work of over 500 authors and features activities such as book signings and panels, bilingual programming, cooking demos, all age activities and more.
Panels such as “Drawn to Life: A Conversation on Graphic Novels” featuring authors Henry Barajas, Angie Wang and more will discuss their work and the importance of graphic novels in today’s media platform.
“Sarah Jessica Parker and Alexandra Oliva in conversation with Miwa Messer,” is one of many celebrity events that are being held in order to uplift authors with new upcoming releases. Events about audiobooks and alternative ways to connect with literature will also take place.
Over 150,000 attendees are expected to arrive over the weekend, according to the LA Times’ website. Visitors can also spend time with vendors showcasing books and other media. Multiple small bookstores such as Arvida Book Co. and La Libreria will be in attendance, selling their inventory. Education programs like Antioch University MFA in Creative Writing and Loyola Marymount University will also speak to interested parties.
According to the Festival of Books website, organizations such as Al-Anon Family Groups will provide a safe space for those who need community and guidance for people living with addictions. Goodwill Southern California will also be in attendance, supporting individuals who need help with finding employment. Food vendors and live music by independent musicians such as Sofia Silvestri and EASTWEST will also be in attendance.
For students using public transportation to travel from Santa Monica College to USC, consider taking the Metro E line train, heading towards Downtown LA from 17th Street/Bergamot Station near the main campus. Get off at Expo Park/USC Station or Jefferson/USC. Parking for the event will be located throughout USC’s campus structure and will be a cashless payment of $20-$25.