DAHLONEGA, Ga. — Readers, writers, educators and book lovers from across the region will gather in Dahlonega this fall as the University of North Georgia hosts the third annual North Georgia Regional Book Fair.
The free event will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the UNG Convocation Center, located at 180 Alumni Drive in Dahlonega.
Hosted by UNG in partnership with the Dahlonega Literary Festival, the event will feature more than 70 regional authors representing a wide range of genres, along with panel discussions, presentations, student vendors, door prizes and family-friendly activities.
“More than a celebration of books, the event reflects a growing commitment to literacy, storytelling and lifelong learning across north Georgia,” said Dr. Laura Getty, a UNG professor of English and organizer of the fair. “Through author conversations, student engagement opportunities and family-friendly programming, the fair connects people through the ideas and stories that shape communities.”
The book fair is part of the university’s broader emphasis on literacy, which officials say helps strengthen critical thinking, communication, empathy and civic engagement.
Featured authors this year include Lynn Cullen, author of the 2026 historical novel When We Were Brilliant; fantasy author Jenn Lyons, whose latest release is Green & Deadly Things; and Judith L. Pearson, whose award-winning 2025 book Radical Sisters chronicles the efforts of three women who helped transform breast cancer awareness and advocacy.
The event will also include special programming tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Author Jason Wetzel will discuss his book Charleston Loyalists: Treason and Survival in the American Revolution during a presentation titled “You’re Only a Traitor if You Lose.”
Families will find plenty of activities throughout the day, including two children’s reading hours. One session will feature Ellie the service dog, while another will include cadets participating in the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
Author Heather Thompson, who has participated in the fair for the past two years, said the event provides valuable exposure for independent writers.
“The North Georgia Regional Book Fair is a must-attend for me as a local indie author because so many self-published writers go unseen day-to-day,” Thompson said. “This event allows independent authors to shine and elevates those of us doing it on our own.”
Visitors will also have an opportunity to view a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of only three in the world. The 224-foot display is an exact reproduction of the famed French tapestry depicting the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Organizers say the event offers something for readers, writers, history enthusiasts and anyone curious to explore the world of books and storytelling.
Visit Dahlonega Literary Festival online for more information.
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