25th Mainz Book Fair

Since its founding in 1999, the Mainz Book Fair has been a fixture on the Rhenish-Hessian literary calendar. Unlike the large commercial book fairs in Frankfurt and Leipzig, it positions itself as a showcase for the independent publishing scene: small literary publishers, academic programs, art book publishers, regionally rooted houses, independent editions — publishers that often get lost in regular bookstores and find a direct encounter with readers here.

The venue is the Academy of Sciences and Literature Mainz, Geschwister-Scholl-Straße 2, one of Germany's most renowned humanities institutions. The publisher stands are spread across the foyer, halls, and library rooms of the Academy. Around 50 publishers present their programs over the two fair days, complemented by readings, workshops, book presentations, and a children's program in the reading garden.

The 25th anniversary edition in 2026 will be celebrated with an expanded program. An opening gala evening on Friday with readings by selected authors who have shaped the fair's history, a special focus on 25 years of independent publishing, an exhibition on Mainz's book history, an expanded children's program, and special events featuring Mainz printing art — a welcome connection to the city's Gutenberg tradition — are expected.

The accompanying series 'Büchermesse unterwegs' (Book Fair on the Go) has been running since spring, featuring readings, book presentations, and workshops at various locations in Mainz — from bookstores and libraries to cafés and unusual venues. This multi-month lead-up phase extends the fair's impact far beyond the weekend and has become a hallmark.

Admission to the main fair is free; readings and special events may have a small participation fee.