Gaithersburg Book Festival

Gaithersburg Book Festival 2026

If your kids like books — or if you like books and want to drag your kids along — this is one of the better free outings in the DMV. Over 100 authors set up across tented areas at Bohrer Park for talks, readings, and signings. There's a dedicated children's and YA tent with authors writing for kids of all reading levels, plus hands-on activities and writing workshops that actually hold kids' attention.

The festival runs 10am to 6pm, which is a long day, but you don't need to stay the whole time. Most families spend 2-3 hours browsing, hitting a few author talks, and letting the kids do crafts. There are food trucks and the park has a playground, so you can break things up. Parking is free and there's usually plenty of it if you arrive before noon.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Check the author lineup before you go: The festival posts the full schedule on their website about a week before. If your kid has a favorite author, plan around that talk time.
• ✓Bring cash for book purchases: Some vendors take cards, but cash lines move faster. Most books are sold at cover price or slightly discounted.
• ✓The playground is your secret weapon: Bohrer Park has a playground adjacent to the festival grounds. When kids hit their limit on author talks, let them run it out there.
• ✓Bring a tote bag: You'll accumulate books, freebies, and festival swag. A bag makes the haul home easier.
• ✓Sunscreen and water: The festival is mostly outdoors with some tented shade. May in Maryland can get warm, and there's a lot of standing and walking between tents.
• ✓Morning is best for families: The crowds build after lunch. If you're bringing younger kids, the 10am-1pm window tends to be less crowded and more manageable.