The Orange County Children’s Book Festival will return to Orange Coast College on Sunday, September 20, 2026, welcoming families from across Southern California for a day celebrating children’s literature, creativity, and community engagement.
This year’s festival features an exciting lineup of guests, including Rachel Ignotofsky, a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator best known for her acclaimed book "Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World." Ignotofsky will give a special presentation inside the OCC Planetarium Dome at 11 a.m.
Attendees can also look forward to meeting Melissa Villaseñor, the multi-talented author, comedian, and artist behind "Cat and Lola: School Picture Day." Jesus Trejo, a comedian, writer, and author of "Mamá's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas" and "Papá's Magical Water-Jug Clock," will also join the festivities. Popular digital creator KidTime StoryTime, known for the beloved YouTube channel, will connect with fans and share favorite stories live at the event.
The festival, free and open to the public, invites families to enjoy a day packed with engaging activities, live readings, and opportunities to meet beloved authors and illustrators. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
As one of the largest children's literary events in the region, the festival will span the entire Orange Coast College campus, boasting more than 100 authors, illustrators, exhibitors, bookstores, and literacy organizations. Activities and attractions will stretch from the Main Quad to the Planetarium, ensuring something for every young reader and their family.
Since its founding in 2004, the Orange County Children's Book Festival has been a cherished tradition, inspiring a love of reading in young people while uniting families, educators, authors, and community partners for a day dedicated to children's books and literacy.
Presented by Orange Coast College and the Orange Coast College Foundation, this free community festival promises books, stories, entertainment, and hands-on activities for all ages, making it a can’t-miss event for the community.
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
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 & parking: Free
For event details, the latest author announcements, and exhibitor information, visit the Orange County Children’s Book Festival website. View photos from the 2024 OC Children’s Book Festival.