A weekend of books, authors and literary adventures
A new chapter begins when the 8th Annual Festival of Books returns to downtown Winnsboro on Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2. Hosted by Winnsboro Center for the Arts (WCA), this free event turns the streets of downtown into a celebration of stories and storytellers, allowing guests to meet and mingle with authors from all over Texas and enjoy a variety of literary activities for all ages. The event takes place on The Bowery in downtown Winnsboro, where guests can stroll the town and pop in and out of charming shops and eateries.
Bob Livingston is the featured author at this year’s event. He is a pioneering Texas singer-songwriter and member of the legendary Lost Gonzo Band, a group that helped shape the sound of progressive country in the 1970s. Livingston is author of Gypsy Alibi: A Gonzo Memoir, winner of the Best First Book of Nonfiction by the Texas Institute of Letters for its colorful tales about the untamed world of Texas music. He has also served as a cultural ambassador for the U.S. State Department, taking his music to 30-plus countries and collaborating with musicians from around the world.
Also in attendance is Corduroy, a beloved storybook character who has entertained young readers with his adventures since the 1960s. Guests can get hugs, high-fives and photos with Corduroy at the event.
The festival kicks off on Friday with an author meet and greet from 6-7 p.m. followed by an evening of stories and music with the legendary Bob Livingston on The Bowery Stage from 7:30 – 9 p.m. (a ticketed event).
Activities take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday with a special performance by Livingston, Texas authors sales and book signings, and interactive art and literacy activities for kids.
Performing artist Michael Guinn, a two-time National Poetry Slam finalist, five-time Austin Poetry Slam winner, and six-time Fort Worth Poetry Slam winner returns to emcee the festival to include recitations by the Fort Worth Poetry Society, author book readings, and spoken word open mic.
WCA plays a key role in bringing cultural programming, exhibitions and entertainment to Winnsboro and East Texas. WCA is supported in part by grants from the Texas Commission on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, Wood County EDC, Winnsboro EDC and Christus Mother Frances Health Systems. Winnsboro’s Cultural District is recognized by Texas Commission on the Arts for its vibrant arts scene. Winnsboro is recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a Texas Main Street Community and an accredited member of Main Street America for its successful downtown revitalization.
For updated schedules, artist announcements, ticket information and additional details, visit winnsborocenterforthearts.com.
