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.