ABOUT US
A Celebration of stories, community, and connection
Since 2008, the Savannah Book Festival has brought together readers, authors, and storytellers for a celebration of the written word in the heart of our city. What began as a community-driven initiative has grown into one of the most beloved literary events in the country—yet it remains deeply rooted in the spirit of Savannah.
Our Festival offers free, public events alongside ticketed sessions, author conversations, and special programs that inspire, entertain, and educate audiences of all ages. Each February, the streets of Savannah come alive with the magic of storytelling, where residents and visitors alike share in the joy of books, ideas, and connection.
At its core, the Savannah Book Festival is about community—from the volunteers who bring it to life, to the authors who travel from near and far, to the readers whose enthusiasm makes it all possible. Together, we celebrate not only literature but the power of stories to bring people together.
Join us each year and become part of Savannah’s literary story.
Our Mission
The Savannah Book Festival exists to inspire a love of reading, foster dialogue, and strengthen community through literature. We celebrate authors and stories that challenge, delight, and spark conversation, bringing people together through the power of the written word. An annual event, free and open to the public in celebration of the written word and improving the human experience. Our mission is to promote reading, writing, and civil conversation.
Our History & Impact
Founded by Matt Prickett in 2008, the Festival has grown from a small, grassroots gathering to one of the premier literary events in the country. Over the years, we’ve welcomed Pulitzer Prize winners, bestselling authors, and rising voices from across the nation. Beyond the Festival itself, programs like SBF@Schools ensure that our impact reaches students, educators, and lifelong learners.
Community at the Heart
Volunteers, donors, partners, and attendees make the Festival possible. More than 200 volunteers each year help bring the event to life, ensuring that every author and guest feels welcome. SBF is proud to remain free and accessible to the public, embodying our belief that literature belongs to everyone.
Our Team
The Festival is guided by a dedicated team of organizers, board members, and community supporters committed to making Savannah a destination for literary excellence. Their vision and hard work help turn every story into a shared experience for our audience.
Why the Savannah Book Festival is Unique
- Community-Driven: Founded by locals, for locals—and visitors alike.
- Inclusive & Accessible: Free events ensure everyone can participate.
- World-Class Authors: From Pulitzer Prize winners to beloved storytellers, the Festival attracts a diverse lineup each year.
- Programs That Educate: Initiatives like SBF@Schools expand our reach and cultivate the next generation of readers.
Join Us
Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a curious newcomer, or an aspiring author, the Savannah Book Festival invites you to be part of our story. Attend an event, volunteer, or become a supporter—and help us continue celebrating the power of books, ideas, and community.
MATT PRICKETT
The Savannah Book Festival was founded in 2008 by Matt Prickett. Our book-loving community and the Savannah Book Festival are eternally grateful for the vision, dedication and leadership of founder Matt Prickett. His dream has become one of the nations leading invitation-only book festivals. When you see Matt enjoying this year’s authors at the Festival, please take a moment to thank him for this outstanding gift to our community. No one knows more about exactly how humble the Festival’s beginnings were than Matt.
