Los Angeles Times Festival of Books | April 20-21, 2024

About the Festival

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, hosted by the University of Southern California, is one of the world’s most significant literary gatherings. This celebrated event presents various authors representing diverse genres, from established literary figures to emerging talents each year. Whether you’re drawn to fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or children’s literature, the festival promises to captivate every literary palate.

Set against the scenic backdrop of USC’s campus, the festival offers many family-friendly activities and entertainment options. Attendees can engage in panels and discussions, facilitating enriching exchanges among fellow book enthusiasts, authors, scholars, and thought leaders. From storytelling sessions to book signings and interactive exhibits, a wealth of experiences awaits visitors of all ages.

Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC

Visit the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books event website for the latest updates.

Download the L.A. Times Festival of Books app on Apple or Android.

Volunteer for the Festival of Books.

L.A. Times Festival of Books News

Trojans to look for at this weekend’s Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC

Wallis Annenberg Hall and USC Stage to feature faculty and students during two-day event on University Park Campus.

Children writing what they are reading on a yellow wall.

Directions, Parking and Transit Information

The USC campus is located about 2 miles southwest from Downtown and 1 mile from the intersection of the Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) and the Harbor Freeway (I-110). The most convenient freeway exit is from I-110 onto Exposition Boulevard. At the end of the exit you will see the campus on the right-hand side one block down the street. Another convenient access is to exit from Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) on Vermont south to Jefferson Boulevard.

Event Parking

Parking in various USC-area parking lots is available for $20. Here are the areas to park in for the event:

  • Downey Way Parking Structure
  • Flower Street Parking Structure
  • Figueroa Street Parking Structure
  • USC Shrine Structure

Transit Information

From Union Station:
Take the Metro B or D Line to 7th Street/Metro Center Station, then transfer to the Metro E Line heading towards Santa Monica and exit Expo Park/USC Station.

From Santa Monica, West L.A., Culver City, Downtown L.A.:
Take the Metro E Line to Expo Park/USC Station.

From Hollywood, Universal City, Mid-City:
Take the Metro B Line to 7th Street/Metro Center Station, then transfer to the Metro E Line heading towards Santa Monica and exit Expo Park/USC Station.

From Mid-City/Wilshire Corridor area:
Take the Metro D Line to 7th Street/Metro Center Station, then transfer to the Metro E Line heading towards Santa Monica and exit Expo Park/USC Station.

From East L.A.:
Take the Metro E Line and exit at the Expo Park/USC Station.

From Pasadena:
Take the Metro A Line to Pico Station. Transfer to the Metro E Line heading towards Santa Monica and exit at the Expo Park/USC Station.

From Long Beach:
Take the Metro A Line to Pico Station, then transfer to the Metro E Line heading towards Santa Monica and exit Expo/Park USC Station.

Downtown L.A. DASH “F” Line
Downtown residents are encouraged to take advantage of the DASH “F” line to reach the USC campus. The DASH “F” line will operate on both days of the Festival of Books, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.  DASH shuttles will pick up every 20 minutes at all “F” line stops. Fare is 50 cents. For a list of DASH “F” line stops, visit www.ladottransit.com/dash and select “Downtown F.”


Navigating the Festival and Dining Options

Festival of Books Guide Map

Are you looking for your favorite author, exhibitor, or food truck? Here’s the Guide Map to help you explore the event’s different performances and vendors.

There will also be several free water fill stations across campus; you can bring your own water bottle. Please note that not all indoor locations allow water to be brought in.

Dining Options