The 4th Annual Grayslake AuthorFest returns on Saturday, July 18, transforming the area in and around the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum into a gathering place for readers, writers, and book lovers of every genre.
This FREE, family-friendly event brings together more than 50 authors, bookish vendors, and activities for all ages.
The first 250 attendees will receive a complimentary swag bag courtesy of About Time Bookstore, making an early arrival well worth it.
Grayslake AuthorFest is organized through a partnership between the Grayslake Area Public Library, Grayslake Arts Alliance, Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum, Grayslake Village Center, Voices of Lake County, and This Old Book, creating the largest community celebration of its kind in Lake County.
Visitors can enjoy a full day of free programming and interactive experiences, including:
Author Panels sponsored by The Beer Bazaar Bottle Shop & Taproom, featuring engaging discussions with published authors and industry leaders inside the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum.
A Youth Creative Writing Contest hosted by This Old Book, along with a Youth Writing Workshop designed to inspire young storytellers.
Creative art stations presented by the Grayslake Arts Alliance, including Artist Trading Card creation and USA 250-themed crafts celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
A USA 250-themed Erasure Poetry Activity hosted by Voices of Lake County, where participants can transform existing text into original works of art and poetry.
Hands-on bookmark-making opportunities, including custom wooden bookmarks with Rabbit Hole Creations and leather bookmarks with Grayslake Arts Alliance member Sam the Jam.
A literary-themed Open Mic hosted by Andy’s Records from 2:00–4:00 PM, with attendees encouraged to support the community through donations of shelf-stable dry goods.
Live caricature drawings available from 12:00–2:00 PM, giving visitors a personalized keepsake from the event.
Typewriter Poetry from 2:00–4:00 PM, where poets will create custom poems on demand using vintage typewriters.
An interactive Author Scavenger Hunt Bingo, encouraging guests to explore the festival and meet participating authors.
A digital photo station in the Grayslake Heritage Center lobby, providing the perfect opportunity to capture and share memories from the day.
Meet your next favorite read, discover your inner author, and connect with the literary community
When the final pages have been turned and the festivities conclude, the celebration continues with the official AuthorFest After Party at The Beer Bazaar Bottle Shop & Taproom, where attendees, authors, and organizers can gather to relax, connect, and reflect on a day dedicated to storytelling, creativity, and community.
