Tampa Bay is turning the page on literary events, offering book lovers an exciting reason to celebrate this spring. With Water Street Tampa setting the stage for an unforgettable season of storytelling, two of the region’s most beloved destinations are preparing to host must-visit book fairs—one designed for young readers and another for dedicated book enthusiasts.
Kids Cover to Cover Book Fair at Sparkman Wharf
First up is the Kids Cover to Cover event at Sparkman Wharf (615 Channelside Dr.), a vibrant children’s book fair happening on Sunday, March 30, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. This lively afternoon of storytelling, poetry, and interactive literary fun is the perfect way to ignite a love for reading in young minds.
Families can meet local children’s authors for book signings, dive into creative crafts, and explore whimsical reading nooks designed to spark the imagination. On Sparkman Wharf’s lush lawn, beloved characters will leap off the pages, bringing timeless tales to life. The event is designed for kids to not just read books but to experience them.
For the perfect afternoon, grab lunch from one of the on-site vendors—Fit Bowl Co’s refreshing pitaya bowl is a local favorite—then pick up a few books and enjoy a cozy picnic with your little bookworms.
The 11th Oxford Exchange Book Fair: A Celebration of Local Authors
For those looking to engage with Tampa’s literary community, the annual Oxford Exchange Book Fair returns on Wednesday, May 1, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 420 W Kennedy Blvd. This beloved event offers a rare opportunity for book lovers to connect with local authors and immerse themselves in the heart of the region’s creative scene.
Each spring, the Oxford Exchange bookshop transforms into a literary hub, welcoming over 40 talented authors across a range of genres. Attendees can browse diverse stories, meet the minds behind the books, and even get their copies personally signed. Whether you love fiction, memoirs, or poetry, this event provides an inspiring atmosphere where words and ideas come to life.
A full list of participating authors will be announced soon, so stay tuned for updates on this enriching literary gathering. For more details on the Oxford Exchange Book Fair, visit Eventbrite.
Don’t Miss Tampa Bay’s Literary Treasures
Whether you’re a parent looking to nurture a young reader or a passionate book lover eager to meet local literary talent, these two Tampa book fairs offer an unforgettable experience. And if you’re craving even more bookish adventures, don’t forget to explore Tampa Bay’s must-visit bookstores, where every shelf holds a new world waiting to be discovered.
