The fabulous, free Gaithersburg Book Festival celebrates its 17th year next Saturday, and the offerings couldn’t be better! From a must-see lineup of authors — including Rabih Alameddine, Reyna Grande, Alex Finlay, John Chu, Carol Leonnig, Jason Mott, and dozens of others — to writing workshops, a children’s village, food trucks, vendors, and a huge used-book sale, the daylong event promises something for everyone!

So head to Montgomery County next weekend for an unforgettable afternoon filled with all things literary! And be sure to stop by the Independent’s table — in front of the activity center — to grab some candy, enter our raffle, and chat about your favorite reads!

The 2026 Gaithersburg Book Festival is Saturday, May 16th, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD. Learn more here.