Books By the Bay 2026 – Author Reader Applications

Books By the Bay invites authors to apply for a 15-minute reading slot at our March 28, 2026 festival in its NEW location overlooking Bayou Texar and Pensacola Bay. Hosted by the non-profit Emerald Coast Writers, this vibrant event celebrates literature with thousands of readers, authors, and industry professionals.

Selected authors will:

Read: Present an excerpt from their latest book.
Engage: Enjoy a complimentary one-hour book signing and sales session.
Gain Exposure: Be featured in festival marketing and social media.

Readings will be 15 minutes in length and held within the beautiful theater at the Bayview Senior Citizens Center; a sound system will be provided.

We welcome authors from all genres including Fiction, Non-Fiction, Memoir, and more.

Deadline: December 15, 2026
Apply below

Selected authors will be notified by January 15, 2026.

(Readers perform gratis with no expectation of compensation beyond what is outlined above)

Join us in inspiring readers and celebrating the joy of books!

BBB Reader Application

Author/Reader Legal Name

Pen name (put "none" if not applicable)

Multi-line address

Country/Region

Address

City

Zip / Postal code

Phone

Social Media 1

Number of followers

Social Media 2

Number of followers

Social Media 3

Number followers

Website

Author Bio

Title of Book

Publisher (we welcome self-published)

Publication Year

Book Genre

Description of Book

Book Awards/Sales Stats/Other Accolades

Have you read at a similar event previously?

Yes

If yes, when and where?

What about your reading will appeal to our festival goers?

Are you able to sell your own books or does your publisher require a retailer?

I will sell my own books.

I am required to go through a bookstore.

How did you hear about Books By The Bay?

Please upload a current headshot and book cover photos.

BBB Reader Application

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