Printers Row Lit Fest
This festival has wrapped for 2026 — it typically returns September 2027.
The Midwest’s biggest free outdoor literary festival returns to South Dearborn for its 41st year: authors, publishers, exhibitors, and free programs.
- Dates: September 12–13, 2026
- Where: South Dearborn St from Ida B. Wells Dr to Polk St
- Neighborhood: Printers Row / South Loop
- Cost: Free
How it was
This year's edition is over — the schedule and practical notes below are kept as the record of 2026.
Schedule
- Sat, Sept. 12 — Lit Fest: 10am-6pm
- Sun, Sept. 13 — Lit Fest: 10am-6pm
What to expect
A street-level book city: author conversations, independent booksellers, publishers, literary organizations, outdoor browsing, and indoor/outdoor stages. Patti Smith is named as the 2026 Harold Washington Literary Award recipient.
Transit
Red Line to Harrison, Brown/Purple/Orange/Pink to Harold Washington Library, or Metra Electric/LaSalle Street nearby. Do not overthink parking in Printers Row during a festival weekend.
Family-friendly
Family-friendly for bookish kids and teens; author talks may fill fast and require patience.
Local tips
- Arrive early for marquee conversations because free seating is first-come.
- Bring a tote; this is not a browse-empty-handed event.
- This is distinct from Printer’s Row Art Fest in August. Both are real, but this one is the literary anchor.
Frequently asked questions
Is Printers Row Lit Fest free?
Yes. Official materials say all events are free and tickets are not required; seating is first-come, first-served.
Is this the same as Printer’s Row Art Fest?
No. Printer’s Row Art Fest is an August visual-art event; Printers Row Lit Fest is the September book and author festival.