FESTIVAL SATURDAY

Free Festival Saturday is the heart of the Savannah Book Festival. On Saturday, February 7, 2026, more than 40 nationally-recognized authors from wide-ranging genres will take the stage in historic Downtown Savannah to share their insights, inspirations, and stories. These free 30-minute presentations, followed by audience Q&As and book signings, take place across some of the city’s most iconic venues, including museums, churches, and theaters. With genres spanning fiction, nonfiction, memoir, history, science, and more, there’s something for every kind of reader.

This is a high-energy, highly-anticipated literary event packed with nonstop programming. Festival Saturday now includes select panel discussions alongside our traditional solo talks, offering even more variety and depth for attendees. With sessions running in parallel across multiple venues, it’s impossible to see it all — so planning ahead is key. We strongly encourage attendees to download the SBF App, familiarize themselves with the schedule and map, and build out a personalized itinerary before arriving. Between events, enjoy a range of local food trucks stationed throughout the Festival grounds to keep you fueled for a full day of literary discovery.

Keep in mind that Free Festival Saturday is made possible by the dedication of our volunteers. With so much happening at once, a little preparation goes a long way toward making your experience smooth and rewarding. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning Festival-goer, come ready to explore, engage, and celebrate the power of books with fellow readers from around the country.