2026 Minnesota Children’s Book Festival

Meet the authors and illustrators of the best new books for young readers in a FREE, family-friendly festival environment. The Minnesota Children’s Book Festival is back for the 27th year on Saturday, September 19!

The Minnesota Children’s Book Festival is designed for kids and their adults to connect, learn, and play together. All ages are welcome. This festival emphasizes the joy of reading and imagination through author meet-and-greets and arts activities.

See the Featured Authors and Illustrators and the Schedule!

Red Balloon Bookshop is the official bookseller for the Minnesota Children’s Book Festival and will have books available for sale and signing.

Hands-on activities for kids and their adults to imagine and create together round out a fun day.

Venue and Accessibility

The Minnesota Children’s Book Festival is held outdoors at the Anderson Center at Tower View, just off the intersection of Highway 61 & Highway 19 in Red Wing, Minnesota. There are eight accessible parking spots immediately adjacent to the festival area around the iconic water tower. There is ample parking in the West Lot for those who do not require accessible parking (roughly 100 yards away with half a flight of stairs).

Events are held in tents around level, paved walkways. In case of inclement weather, Anderson Center will make a decision about whether or not to move the event indoors. Indoor spaces are all ADA compliant, and include spaces accessed via ADA compliant ramps and via elevator. There are both men’s and women’s indoor bathrooms on site (this is a no porta-potty event!). We encourage people to use the restroom that accommodates their family’s needs and their gender identity.

There is a quiet, interior space with low lighting designated as a sensory space. Please utilize it as you or your child require.

Our Funders and Sponsors

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.