FAQs

Q: What is the Mississippi Book Festival?

A: The Mississippi Book Festival is an annual literary event that brings together authors, readers, and book enthusiasts. It features author panels, discussions, book signings, and various activities for all ages.

Q: When and where does the Mississippi Book Festival take place?

A: The 2024 Mississippi Book Festival takes place on September 14th from 9am to 5pm on the grounds of the State Capitol in Jackson, MS.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets for the festival?

A: No, the festival is free to attend and open to all.

Q: What types of activities can I expect at the Mississippi Book Festival?

A: There are a variety of indoor and outdoor offerings suitable for adults, children, and families. At indoor venues, festival-goers can expect panels of distinguished guest authors in conversation on latest works and in-depth topics, plus workshops and MPB Kids area. Outside on the lawn, take advantage of book signing and networking opportunities, storytelling times, play areas, live music, and much much more!

Q: How many panels are there, and how long do they typically last?

A: There are more than 50 panels scheduled throughout the day. Each panel lasts one hour. It's suggested that attendees arrive 15 minutes early for panels they wish to attend.

Q: Is there a schedule of events available?

A: There’s a handy flipbook available online here that will continue to be edited with any late changes, plus a printed Festival Guide will be available at the Information Tent on festival day. 

Q: Are there activities for children?

A: Yes, there's a Kids Tent on the lawn with activities all day long, including storytime, and nearby Rocky’s House, courtesy of the Mississippi Children’s Museum. Additionally, there’s a special KidNote event Saturday morning with master storyteller Kate DiCamillo, panels for young readers throughout the day, MPB Kids area, and new Kids Workshops on writing, poetry and bookmaking.

Q: What's available on the festival grounds outside?

A: The festival grounds offer a variety of attractions for all ages:

• Family activities
• Booksellers Row featuring independent booksellers
• Food and drink vendors along the east and west sides of the festival site, plus grab’n’go foods on Congress Street
• Signing Tent where most official panelists make themselves available at appointed times
• Authors Alley, where independent authors sell the day’s featured books and a whole lot more
• Community Lawn, where where organizations that support creativity and literacy provide a networking opportunity
• Live music from local musicians

Q: How do I buy the authors’ books?

A: You can purchase copies of the authors’ books from booksellers set up near each signing area.

Q: Can I bring my own books for signing?

A: Yes, you can bring books from home, however, we strongly encourage you to purchase at least one book from the festival booksellers at the signing areas before getting in the signing lines. Purchasing books at the festival is a way you can directly support the independent Mississippi booksellers that make up such a large and important part of the festival and our communities.

Q: Will authors sign their books?

A: Most authors will be available in the Book Signing tent following their panel/presentation. However, we cannot guarantee that every author will sign. Festival-goers may have no more than three books to be signed by any author at one time, but are welcome to rejoin the line for additional book signing requests.

Tip: While you are waiting, write the name of the person you’d like the book inscribed to on a piece of paper for correct spelling and to ensure that as many people as possible can get their books signed.

Q: Is the festival accessible for people with disabilities?

A: Yes, the festival is committed to accessibility. As the event takes place at the historic State Capitol, some accommodations are in place, though navigating certain areas may require additional effort. We encourage attendees with specific accessibility needs to contact the festival organizers in advance for assistance in planning their visit at info@msbookfestival.com. Check out our festival parking map for information on handicap parking and festival site map for accessible entrances to buildings.

Q: What should I wear to the Mississippi Book Festival?

A: We recommend dressing for comfort and variable temperatures. The outdoor areas will likely be warm, while indoor spaces are air-conditioned. Light, breathable layers are a good choice to accommodate both environments. Comfortable walking shoes are advised.

Q: Is parking available near the festival grounds?

A: Parking is available in the surrounding areas of the Capitol in downtown Jackson. Our festival parking map shows the free public parking available to festival-goers. Please note that you may need to walk a short distance from your parking spot to the festival grounds. Consider arriving early to secure parking and allow time for the walk to the venue.

Q: Can I bring a bag or backpack?

A: Yes, you're welcome to bring a bag. If you plan on purchasing books, a large cloth bag is recommended. The festival also sells branded bags with this year’s festival art on-site for your convenience. There will be security checkpoints inside the Capitol and at Galloway Church, so keep this in mind when packing.

Q: Are there any items not allowed at the festival?

A: The Mississippi Book Festival is a family-friendly event. While we don't have a strict list of prohibited items, we ask attendees to use their best judgment and bring only items appropriate for a public, all-ages event. If you have questions about specific items, please contact the festival organizers. We kindly ask that no open food or beverage be brought in to Galloway Sanctuary or Capitol Building. No concealed weapons allowed.

Q: What happens if it rains?

A: The festival takes place rain or shine. While many events are held indoors, some outdoor activities may be affected by inclement weather. We recommend checking the weather forecast and bringing rain gear (umbrella, light raincoat) if needed. Updates regarding any weather-related changes will be communicated on the day of the event.