Aug 20, 2026 - Things to Do
What to expect at the San Diego Book Festival this Saturday
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Browsing the books. Photo: Courtesy of KPBS
More than 8,000 people are expected to descend on the University of San Diego Saturday for the San Diego Book Festival.
The big picture: It's put on by KPBS and includes live music, activities for kids, panels and speakers and lots and lots of books.
Zoom in: It runs 10am–4pm and is free and open to the public.
- Attendees can visit booths, shop for books and do hands-on activities.
- There will be 38 author panels throughout the day.
What's new: Two new panels this year include "Adapting Novels for the Screen" and "The Neurodivergent Reader."
Best-selling author Max Brallier will also talk about his new book "Last Comics on Earth: Across the Doodleverse."
- Kids can also meet characters like Arthur, Clifford the Big Red Dog and Daniel Tiger and walk through an immersive Dr. Seuss experience.
Yes, but: It will probably be really hot. Bring water and find shade.
