Downtown Jacksonville came alive with stories, culture, and community connection as the JAX Urban Book Festival (JUBF26) returned for its 3rd Annual celebration last weekend at the historic James Weldon Park.
Held Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the free, family-friendly event welcomed readers, writers, and community members of all ages. This year’s festival drew more than 400 attendees and featured nearly 75 authors and vendors, showcasing both local and national voices across a broad range of genres. The festival serves as a hub for literacy, education, and community collaboration. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a lively and inclusive atmosphere featuring author chats, a DJ, door prizes, a Kid Zone, and a food truck, creating an engaging experience for families, book lovers, and aspiring writers alike. In addition to the main festival, JUBF26 hosted a series of pre-festival events, from workshops, a VIP happy hour and networking opportunities in a relaxed, celebratory setting gaining practical guidance and inspiration from industry professionals.
The JAX Urban Book Festival (JUBF) is an annual literary and cultural event founded by Dr. V Brooks Dunbar and DREAMWEEK INC. The festival celebrates authors, promotes literacy, and strengthens community through storytelling, education, and engagement—while remaining free and accessible to the public. For more information about the JAX Urban Book Festival, participating authors, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteering, visit www.jaxurbanbookfest.com or contact info@jaxurbanbookfest.com.