• FAQ | Know before you go

    Scottsdale Book Festival 2026

    Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning friend, this page gives you simple, friendly answers so you feel ready for a great day. You’ll find the essentials, hours, getting here, parking, accessibility, what to bring, and policies, so your experience is easy, welcoming, and fun.

    Is the festival free?
    YES!—free admission, family friendly, and open to the public.

    When is it?
    Saturday, January 24, 2026, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

    Where is it?
    Scottsdale Civic Center, 7380 E. 2nd Street, Scottsdale, AZ.

    Getting Here & Parking:

    • Public garages (Free) and surface lots (Free) are available in downtown Scottsdale, follow city signage.
    • Rideshare/drop-off: use 7380 E. 2nd Street and follow event signs.
    • Wayfinding staff and signs will guide you to entrances, stages, and the Marketplace.

    Accessibility:

    • Wide, paved walkways and accessible restrooms on campus.
    • Accessible parking and drop-off areas near the venue.
    • Need an accommodation? Contact us in advance on the Contact page.
    • Service animals are welcome (ADA).

    Food & Drinks:

    • Local food vendors will be on site all day.
    • Outside food and sealed water are welcome; please pack out what you bring.

    What to bring:

    • Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats.
    • A day bag for books and goodies.
    • Payment options, most exhibitors accept cards; a little cash can be handy.

    Pets & Personal Wheels:

    • Pets: For everyone’s comfort and safety, no pets, please. Service animals are welcome (ADA).
    • Personal wheels: For safety, no motorized or ride-on devices (e-bikes, e-scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, roller skates/blades) inside festival grounds. ADA mobility devices are welcome.

    Allowed & Not Allowed:

    • Allowed: Day bags, compact blankets, strollers, ADA service animals.
    • Not allowed: Weapons, drones, illegal substances, alcohol, and disruptive noise devices.

    Families & Kids:

    • Kid-friendly activities and on-stage moments throughout the day.
    • Strollers are welcome, please keep walkways clear.

    Restrooms & Amenities:

    • Permanent restrooms on campus; additional festival facilities as needed.
    • Information Booth: maps, lost & found, basic first aid assistance.

    Weather & Safety:

    • Outdoor event; rain or shine. Check News for any updates.
    • On-site staff and security will be present throughout the day.

    Photos & Media:

    • Personal photos are welcome.
    • No drones.
    • Media/Press inquiries: reach out via Contact.

    For Exhibitors (authors/vendors)

    • Apply: authorsvendorsfood-vendorssponsors
    • Booth boundaries: All displays, signage, merchandise, and staff must remain within your assigned booth; no soliciting in aisles or common areas.

    Still have a question?

    See Plan Your Visit, check News, or contact us via the Contact page.