What to Expect at GR Lit Fest
The Grand Rapids Literary Festival is a multi-day festival held across the city of Grand Rapids celebrating the book-loving community. Events will include children’s story hour, author talks, author/genre discussion panels, and multiple book fairs.
Festival Hours
Please consult the event calendar for the most recent event dates, times, and locations.
Are all events for all ages?
There are many all ages events! Certain events are aimed at mature audiences. Please check event details.
How much does it cost to attend the festival?
All author talks, panel discussions, poetry walks, book fairs, and storytimes are free to attend! If artists or performers are hired for a community event, we may ask an admission price to make sure they are paid for their work.
Can I purchase books to add to my TBR?
Of course! Authors’ books will be available for sale at the festival events and book fairs throughout the week. There is also a list of bookstores you can visit while in Grand Rapids.
What is your policy on AI in GR Lit Fest?
We have a no AI policy.
To the best of our ability, we avoid working with authors and vendors who sell items created with AI. We choose not work with authors who use AI in the writing or marketing of their books, including for their book covers.
We aren’t perfect; if you notice one of our authors or vendors has items created with AI, we appreciate you bringing it to our attention so we can prevent future mistakes.
Festival Venues
Events will take place across central Grand Rapids, highlighting the city’s independent bookstores, literary organizations, small businesses, and community spaces.
What bookstores can I visit while in Grand Rapids?
For a list of bookstores who have supported the festival either through advertising or lending their space free-of-charge for event, please see the bookstores page.
Is a 1 drink minimum required?
To support the restaurant and entertainment venues who generously donate their space for festival events, allowing us to not charge admission, we ask attendees to consider making a beverage purchase.
Parking and Transportation
Parking
There are many paid surface lots, parking garages and metered street parking options downtown. Please give yourself ample time to find parking before an event.
Transportation
The DASH downtown area shuttle provides residents and visitors free transportation around downtown Grand Rapids. Visit the DASH website for exact schedule, hours, and routes.
Lime e-scooters and e-assist bicycles are available to rent at multiple locations throughout Grand Rapids.
Rain or Shine
The festival is held in both indoor and outdoor venues and will go on despite the weather.