Free and open to the public, the Indie Lit Fair celebrates the vitality and diversity of independent literary publishing, showcasing new and established poetry presses, fiction and creative nonfiction publishers, and innovative literary magazines. Stop by to browse, buy, and bask in the breadth of the literary arts being published today. This year, the Indie Lit Fair will take place at Washington Square South (between Thompson St. & Sullivan St.)
Vital Voices Reading, 12:30–1:30pm, Festival Stage, Washington Square South
Vital Voices from Indie Lit Publishers, hosted by The Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP), presents readings from a diverse array of independently published authors. This year, Vital Voices will be presented on our Outdoor Festival Stage at Washington Square South. The event will feature fiction writers, poets, and translators.
The PEN World Voices Festival is PEN America’s annual celebration of international literature and free expression. Taking place April 29–May 2, 2026, in New York and Los Angeles, the festival will convene more than 140 writers from over 40 countries for a wide-ranging program of conversations, panels, readings and outdoor activations. Founded in 2004 to counter rising isolationism and foster cross-cultural dialogue, the festival continues to highlight literature’s vital role in fostering understanding, championing free speech, and connecting communities worldwide. Learn more at pen.org/festival.
The Indie Lit Fair is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.
