Jacksonville, January 22, 2026
The JAX Urban Book Festival is set to celebrate literature and culture on January 24, bringing together authors, readers, and aspiring writers in Jacksonville. Hosted by Dr. V Brooks Dunbar and DREAMWEEK INC., this free and community-driven event promises author showcases, networking opportunities, masterclasses, and children’s activities, creating a vibrant platform for local talent and civic engagement.
Jacksonville, Florida
JAX Urban Book Festival Ignites Community Spirit in Jacksonville
The JAX Urban Book Festival is set to take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at James Weldon Johnson Park, located at 135 W Monroe Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. This annual event celebrates literature and culture, bringing together authors, readers, and aspiring writers from across the country. Admission is free and open to the public.
Local organizers, including acclaimed author Dr. V Brooks Dunbar and the nonprofit DREAMWEEK INC., have shown resilience in curating this community-driven event, highlighting the power of partnership in fostering civic engagement. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, they have successfully crafted a platform that not only showcases literary talent but also strengthens community bonds. Events like this reaffirm the potential of Jacksonville’s neighborhoods to collaborate for collective growth.
Event Highlights
- Author Showcase: Engage with authors from various genres and enjoy book signings throughout the day.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow book enthusiasts, authors, and industry professionals.
- Sponsored Exhibitors: Discover resources from book industry professionals and local community organizations.
- Aspiring Author Masterclasses: Gain insights from experts with in-person sessions designed for aspiring authors.
- Children’s Activities: Bring the family for fun activities, including a free book giveaway for every child in attendance.
Additional Events
In addition to the main festival on Saturday, the weekend includes:
- Friday, January 23, 2026:
- Aspiring Author Workshops: Held at Highlands Regional Library, Jacksonville, FL.
- Author VIP Happy Hour: An exclusive networking event at Breezy’s Jazz House, Jacksonville, FL.
About the Festival
Founded by Dr. V Brooks Dunbar and DREAMWEEK INC., the JAX Urban Book Festival showcases Jacksonville as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, business, and social progress. Proceeds from the festival support scholarships and professional development opportunities for creative talent in the community.
Weather Forecast
For attendees planning to visit James Weldon Johnson Park, the weather forecast for Saturday, January 24, 2026, is as follows:
- Temperature: High of 18.3°C (64.9°F), Low of 5.6°C (42.1°F)
- Conditions: Partly cloudy with a slight chance of rain
It’s advisable to dress in layers and carry an umbrella to ensure comfort throughout the day.
Getting There
James Weldon Johnson Park is centrally located in downtown Jacksonville, making it accessible by car, public transportation, or on foot. Parking is available in nearby lots and garages. For those using public transit, several bus routes serve the area, and the park is within walking distance from various downtown attractions and accommodations.
Stay Connected
For the latest updates and detailed information about the festival schedule, participating authors, and additional events, visit the official JAX Urban Book Festival website. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a day of literature, culture, and community engagement at the JAX Urban Book Festival.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the JAX Urban Book Festival?
The festival is scheduled for Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Where is the festival held?
The festival takes place at James Weldon Johnson Park, located at 135 W Monroe Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202.
Is there an admission fee?
Admission to the Author Showcase is free and open to the public.
What activities are available for children?
The festival offers children’s activities, including a free book giveaway for every child in attendance.
How can I register for the event?
Advance registration is required for the festival. You can register and find more information on the official JAX Urban Book Festival website.
Key Features of the JAX Urban Book Festival
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Author Showcase | Meet and engage with authors from various genres, and enjoy book signings throughout the day. |
| Networking Opportunities | Connect with fellow book enthusiasts, authors, and industry professionals. |
| Sponsored Exhibitors | Discover resources from book industry professionals and local community organizations. |
| Aspiring Author Masterclasses | Gain insights from experts with in-person sessions designed for aspiring authors. |
| Children’s Activities | Bring the family for fun activities, including a free book giveaway for every child in attendance. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
