AugsBuch — Augsburg Book Fair

AugsBuch — A Young Book Fair on a Growth Trajectory

AugsBuch was launched in 2024 as an independent book fair by and for the South Bavarian literary scene. The premiere event already exceeded expectations, leading to the 2025 edition moving to the Messe Augsburg — with almost 1,000 visitors and 110 exhibitors across 35+ readings, it was impressive proof of the demand for a regionally anchored book fair south of the Frankfurt–Leipzig line. The venue for 2026: again the Messe Augsburg with its modern halls and excellent transport links via B17, Tram 3 (12 minutes from Königsplatz Augsburg), and Bus 41.

Program Structure for the 2026 Edition

The second main edition in 2026 will take place on Saturday, November 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Over 100 authors, publishers, and service providers have registered. The program includes more than 40 author readings, running concurrently in three dedicated rooms, complemented by panel discussions in the Panorama Hall. After the readings, autograph sessions will be held, allowing readers to meet their favorite authors in person. Additionally, there will be a film program with subsequent Q&A sessions, a scavenger hunt across the fair, cosplay walks, and experimental formats like book pitches and speed dating for authors and readers.

Children's Book Festival in Spring

Since 2025, AugsBuch has established its own spring format: the Children's Book Festival, which will take place in 2026 on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event focuses on children's book authors, publishers, age-appropriate readings, and workshops. A dedicated, self-contained festival format that complements the main fair in November and makes Augsburg a year-round hub for book culture.

Focus on the Independent Scene

The thematic profile of AugsBuch differs from the major corporate fairs in Frankfurt and Leipzig: The focus is on independent publishers, self-publishers, regional authors, and genre literature that is often difficult to find in traditional bookstores — fantasy, romance, crime, speculative fiction. The family-friendly atmosphere, the short distances between publishers and readers, and the dedicated volunteer event team have made AugsBuch a hidden gem for readers looking to browse beyond the bestseller lists. Augsburg, a university city and a traditional publishing location (including Wißner-Verlag, Augsburg Verlag), provides the perfect setting.