New Mexico Children’s Book Fair

The New Mexico Children’s Book Fair takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Albuquerque Public Schools’ Berna Facio Professional Development Center. This free and public event encourages reading and literacy among children of all ages, offering a variety of engaging activities.

Attendees can enjoy read-aloud sessions by numerous New Mexico children’s book authors and author-illustrators. A notable highlight is the special appearance by former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo, who will read from her new children’s book, "Gathering the Light." Every child at the fair is offered a complimentary book by one of the presenting authors. Additionally, Libros for Kids, the event sponsor, along with its sister organization Read to Me!, provides opportunities for children to receive new or gently used books from a truck in the parking lot.

Beyond readings, the fair includes interactive elements such as drawing and writing opportunities, storytelling by Neema Pickett and Armando Ortega, and magic performances by John Polinko aimed at inspiring reading. Children can also participate in the "Read to the Dogs" program and meet native birds through the "Hawks Aloft" program. Bookworks will be on site selling children’s books by the featured authors. Children must be accompanied by an adult.