Free and ticketed July book fairs and exhibits

(July through September - NY, NY) The Declaration of Independence & Rare Americana at the Morgan Library & Museum: This exhibit displays rare foundational texts and Americana from its extensive collections, including original drafts and early prints of the Declaration of Independence. https://www.themorgan.org/exhibitions/declaration-of-independence There is an admission charge that varies. See Visit the Morgan for specifics. 

(July 3 - Gettysburg, PA) Civil War Book Sale and Author Signing: This is a free event where history buffs can browse hundreds of new and used Civil War books and meet authors like Jeff Shaara and Garry Adelman. https://celebrategettysburg.com/event/civil-war-book-sale-and-author-signings/

(Ends July 4 - Washington, DC) The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution Hosted at the Library of Congress: It features original papers of George Washington and King George III, bringing together royal and revolutionary texts side-by-side.  This landmark exhibit is ongoing. It closes July 4, 2026. There is no admission charge to view exhibits at LOC, but some require timed entry. https://www.loc.gov/exhibitions/two-georges/about-this-exhibition/

(July 10-12 - Brooklyn, NY) Brooklyn Art Book Fair: A free, volunteer-run event with many exhibitors spotlighting independent presses, ‘zine culture, and rare artist monographs. No fee, donations accepted. https://www.bkabf.info/

(July 11-12 – Columbus, OH) The Columbus Book Festival: A free in-person literary gathering featuring author readings, panel discussions, and book vendors at the Main Library. Also includes a self-guided driving tour to area bookstores. https://www.columbusbookfestival.org/

(July 12 – Middletown, NY) Thrills & Chills Book Fair: A regional book fair focused on dark romance, horror, and thrillers, hosted at Aspire Brewing. It combines indie bookstore pop-ups, author signings, and craft beers. https://www.wellwornbooks.com/thrills-chills This is a ticketed event with entry starting at $20, higher for early admission.

(July 18 - Mammoth Lakes, CA) Eastern Sierra Book Festival: A free one day outdoor/indoor celebration of books, reading and writing at the Hayden Cabin combined with book sale, variety show, vendors booths and more. https://www.visitmammoth.com/events/eastern-sierra-book-festival-3/

(July 18 - Payson AZ) Payson Book Fair: Free admission, numerous Arizona authors, family friendly. https://paysonbookfestival.org

(July 19 - Detroit MI) Detroit Book Festival: A large annual free event based a Eastern Market with a diverse program and many vendors. Related activities includes a self-guided bookstore tour of Metro Detroit area shops. https://detroitbookfest.com

(July 23 -26 - San Diego, CA) San Diego Comic Con:  A monster event for comic fans that draws a huge crowd. Check the site for particulars including registration and fees. Big, BIG! https://www.comic-con.org/

(July 25 - Seattle, WA) The Readers & Writers Author Event: A place for fans to meet, interact with, and get books signed by over 80 published authors in a fan-focused environment. This is a ticketed event with admission starting at $15, additional fees for early admission and special programs. https://readerswritersevents.com/

(Opened in April - ongoing through July 26 - San Francisco, CA) Futurity Library: Disobedient Artists' Books: An exhibit at the San Francisco Center for the Book examines the book as an evolutionary object, showcasing how artists are pushing the boundaries of book structures and conventions. https://www.sfcb.org/exhibitions-archive/futurity-library

(July 30 - Aug. 2 - Pittsburgh, PA) Pulp Fest: A long running festival focused on Mystery, Adventure and Science Fiction. A summer pulp tradition since 1972. It features an auction and a diverse program of related activities. This is a ticketed event requiring pre-registration, costs vary depending if booked in conjunction with the festival hotel. See site for additional details  https://pulpfest.com