Orange County Children's Book Festival Returns to Costa Mesa on Sept. 20

Featured Guests

Rachel Ignotofsky – New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World
Melissa Villaseñor – Author, comedian, and artist of Cat and Lola: School Picture Day
Jesus Trejo – Comedian, writer, and author of Mamá's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas and Papá's Magical Water-Jug Clock
KidTime StoryTime – Popular digital creator and host of the YouTube channel KidTime StoryTime

Southern California families are invited to the 2026 Orange County Children's Book Festival on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa.

One of the largest children's literary events in the region, the festival features more than 100 children's authors, illustrators, exhibitors, bookstores, and literacy organizations across the Orange Coast College campus, from the Main Quad to the Planetarium.

A beloved Orange County tradition since 2004, the Orange County Children's Book Festival inspires a lifelong love of reading by bringing together young readers, families, educators, authors, and community partners for a day celebrating children's books and literacy.

Presented by Orange Coast College and the Orange Coast College Foundation, this free community event offers a full day of books, stories, entertainment, and hands-on activities for all ages.

Festival Highlights

Meet your favorite and discover new authors and illustrators through book signings, read-alouds, and on-stage interviews.
Discover new books for every stage of young readers.
Meet special guests and crowd favorite characters.
Enjoy live entertainment, performances, and interactive exhibitor booths.
Ride the train, play on inflatable attractions, and participate in family-friendly activities.
Visit local food trucks with food available for purchase.
Explore the Orange Coast College Planetarium, including a special presentation by Rachel Ignotofsky. (For more information on Speaker, please visit www.prhspeakers.com)

For event details, the latest author announcements, and exhibitor information, visit kidsbookfestival.com or follow @occhildrensbookfest on Instagram.
For festival questions contact admin@kidsbookfestival.com
For marketing and media questions contact socialmedia@kidsbookfestival.com

Sponsors: Northern Trust, Friends of the Library, Simple Green, and Pepsi.

WHAT: 2026 Orange County Children's Book Festival

WHEN: Sunday, September 20, 2026, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

WHERE: Orange Coast College, 2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Admission and parking are free.

Contact the host of 22nd Annual Orange County Children's Book Festival