The Mississippi Book Festival has announced it will once again be set up on the grounds of the state capitol in Jackson with this year’s edition set for Saturday, Sept. 13.
The annual literary lawn party, now heading into its eleventh year, has become one of the most popular book events in the Southeast with the 2024 Mississippi Book Festival uniting over 37,000 readers. Each year, authors from all walks of life flock to the Magnolia State to share their stories with attendees.
“We are excited to announce that the 2025 Mississippi Book Festival will be held on September 13 at the Mississippi State Capitol,” a social media announcement reads. “Join us for a day filled with inspiring authors, engaging panels, and an unforgettable literary experience.”
Ellen Daniels, executive director of the Mississippi Book Festival, acknowledged before last year’s event the tremendous level of growth the festival has experienced since its inception. From the 2015 launch alongside best-selling Mississippi author John Grisham to overcoming the crux of the COVID-19 pandemic with virtual-only events in 2020 and 2021, the festival has reached record attendance numbers over the past three years.
“This event is massively important to not only our city but our entire state, and to see how it’s grown and expanded through the years has been incredible,” Daniels said. “From hosting literary legends to fostering educational opportunities, the festival would never have been able to leave such a lasting impact without [attendees’] support, and that is not lost on us.”
Last year’s Mississippi Book Festival was the first time the event had been held in September after a stretch of sweltering August dates. The move resulted in a slightly cooler day with a long list of authors, including Jesmyn Ward and Richard Grant, making up 40 panels. This year’s lineup is in the making, with author announcements expected to be rolled out over the coming months.
The 2025 Mississippi Book Festival will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. There will also be food, live music, pop-up shops, activities for children, and writing workshops. But for those who can’t wait until September, festival officials will be hosting an array of “Reading the Room” events with the next one set for Thursday, March 6 at Urban Foxes coffee shop in Jackson, giving readers a chance to talk all things books with their neighbors and friends.
