Literary Legends Take the Stand!
If you’ve ever wanted to sit where Atticus Finch held court, now’s your chance. From February 26 to 28, Monroeville transforms into a haven for readers, writers, and anyone who loves a good story. The Monroeville Literary Festival invites you into the Old Courthouse Museum courtroom, the very space that inspired To Kill a Mockingbird, for three days of readings, discussions, and signings that feel equal parts intimate and electric.
This isn’t a quiet book club tucked into a corner. The festival is packed with authors across genres, with Ace Atkins taking center stage as the 2026 Harper Lee Award honoree. From literary fiction to thrillers, memoirs, and Southern voices that demand to be heard, every session offers spirited conversation and a chance to connect directly with the minds behind the words.
Festival Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
- Author Events in the Historic Courtroom – Pull up a chair in the space made famous by Harper Lee. Most sessions are free with registration, giving everyone a front-row seat to readings and Q&A sessions.
- Paint the Town – While the courtroom hums with literary energy, downtown Monroeville hosts a plein air art celebration. Watch artists bring the streets to life on canvas, and maybe take home a piece of the weekend.
- Southern Meals and Mingling – Ticketed lunches and dinners offer a chance to unwind, swap favorite titles, and toast to good writing and great company.
Beyond the events, the festival is a perfect excuse to explore the Literary Capital of Alabama. Historic streets, local cafes, and small-town charm blend seamlessly with the weekend’s cultural energy. Fans of good writing will find themselves rubbing elbows with like-minded readers while soaking in the unmistakable Southern hospitality.
Whether you’re a longtime devotee of Harper Lee or just in search of a weekend that feeds your brain and your soul, the Monroeville Literary Festival delivers. Grab your tickets and get ready for three days, one historic courthouse, and a whole lot of stories waiting to be discovered.
Turn the page and find your next Alabama adventure with our guide at guidetoalabama.com/festivals!