Books in Bloom: 10th Anniversary Edition

Celebrating the Next Generation of Readers & Voices

Join us for the 10th annual Books in Bloom festival! This year, we are celebrating our rising generation of readers and authors. From captivating book talks by renowned YA authors to hands-on “CreatorLabs” where you can learn to tell your story your way, the Merriweather District will be buzzing with inspiration. Experience powerful readings and spoken word performances from Howard County students and discover why this festival is a must-attend event for the whole family.

2026 Featured Authors:

• Jason Reynolds: Coach
• Karen Outen: 2025–2026 Bauder Writer-in-Residence (HoCoPoLitSo), Dixon, Descending
• Khadijah Ali-Coleman: For the Girls Who Do Too Much
• Sasa Aakil: Bright Before Us, Like a Flame: Igniting a New Generation of Writers
• Charlene Thomas: It’s You Every Time
• Danielle Joseph: Sydney A. Frankel’s Summer Mix Up
• Jillian Stacia: Set the Bone

Performances and Readings by:

• Generation Verse: Featuring readings and spoken word from high school and middle school authors
• Behind the Story: Live recording of the Books in Bloom edition Podcast for 
• Authors Next Door: Panel discussion features local authors and their works

main Stage Schedule

• 11:00am – 11:30am: VIP Book Club Meetup
• 11:30am – 12:15pm: Jason Reynolds
• 12:30pm – 1:30pm: Generation Verse – Our Voice & Navigating the Margins
• 1:45pm – 2:15PM: Behind the Story featuring Jason Reynolds, Khadijah Ali-Coleman & Sasa Aakil
• 2:30pm – 3:00pm: The Author Next Door featuring Jillian Stacia, Danielle Joseph, and Charlene Thomas

Interactive Activities

• Calling all Book Clubs! Register for a VIP Book Club Meet-up at 11:00 am for an exclusive reception featuring complimentary refreshments and exclusive giveaways. Not part of a Book Club? Recruit some friends and download our Books in Bloom Book Club Guide to start yours today!!
• 11:30 am: Main Stage is Live with Jason Reynolds
• Guest Services Giveaway: First 200 guests will receive a signature Books in Bloom Book Bag
• Stroller Valet- Enjoy complimentary Stroller Valet, allowing the convenience of baby-wearing to navigate Color Burst Park with ease.
• Main Stage featuring author interviews
• Author book signing after each stage appearance
• Outdoor bookstore hosted by Busboys & Poets
• Creator Labs
  • Teen Poetry Cipher & Writing Lab hosted by Howard County Public Schools
  • Prose Lab Hosted by HCPSS
  • Illustration Lab Hosted by HCPSS
  • Poetry Lab Hosted by HoCoPolitso
  • Video Storytelling Lab Hosted by Waxing the City
  • Podcasting Lab Presented by Columbia Association
  • Audiobook Lounge Hosted by Howard County Public Library System Steam Machine
  • Flower Shop hosted by Calluna Flower Truck
  • Signature cocktail bars hosted by GameOn and Cured | 18th & 21st
  • Visit booths from local authors, partners, and organizations 
  • Community Reading Garden: Bring a pre-loved book to plant in our garden, and pick one to take home with you.
  • Children’s Zone with family-friendly crafts and activities, and face painting
  • Immersive, Insta-worthy photo ops and interactives
  • Delicious cuisine available for sale from local restaurateurs
  • Blooming Booth Photos at the blooming mural by Amanda Gallagher Orthodontics