AUSTIN, Texas — March is National Reading Month, and we’re celebrating with a special We Are Austin episode dedicated to all things books — and beyond. From must-read recommendations to engaging conversations with local voices, we’re diving into the stories that inspire, educate, and bring our community together!
March is National Reading Month, and we’re celebrating with a special We Are Austin episode dedicated to all things books — and beyond. From must-read recommendations to engaging conversations with local voices, we’re diving into the stories that inspire, educate, and bring our community together!
Sierra Waggoner and Trevor Scott welcomed event co-organizers Michelle Zhang and Jackie Rangel to share how the Austn Texas Book Trail continues to grow and connect the Austin literary community.
Sierra Waggoner and Trevor Scott welcomed event co-organizers Michelle Zhang and Jackie Rangel to share how the Book Trail continues to grow and connect the Austin literary community.
“So the Austin, Texas Book Trail is a self-guided, independent bookstore crawl that happens every year. This year is our third year, and it’s next weekend, April 4th and fifth. So we’ve got over 30 bookstores participating and we’re excited to do it,” Zhang said.
Day One Kickoff —{ }Austin Texas Book Trail{ }
Often compared to a bar crawl for bookworms, the event invites participants to visit multiple local bookstores, discover new reads, and engage with fellow readers. The event has seen significant growth this year. “So this year we have 36, which is incredible to have in this area in and around Austin. Last year we had 29. So for seven more stores to be on the trail is incredible!” Rangel said.
Day One Kickoff —{ }Austin Texas Book Trail
The weekend kicks off with a lively start for attendees. “We start with a kickoff on Saturday morning we’ll be handing out trail maps,” Zhang said. “At the kickoff, we’ll also have some free coffee and tacos, book donations, a DJ it’s just a fun way to kick off the weekend.” Participants can use the map to visit each bookstore and collect stamps along the way.
Day One Kickoff —{ }Austin Texas Book Trail.
Along the trail, each stop offers its own unique experience. “Different stores will offer whether it’s a discount stickers or an entry into a unique raffle,” Rangel said. “It’s kind of like a discovery surprise where you stop along the trail.”
Day Two Afterparty — Austin Texas Book Trail{ }
The event wraps up with a community-focused afterparty. “That’s going to be at Strangelove Coffee and Wine on Sunday afternoon we’ll have a food pop-up, book stacks, sketches with a local artist it’s just a fun way to wind down,” Zhang said. She also highlighted this year’s creative elements, including the events poster designed by local artist Victoria Cardenas
{ }the events poster designed by local artist Victoria Cardenas
and raffle prizes featuring work from other Austin artists.
The event wraps up with a community-focused afterparty. “That’s going to be at Strangelove Coffee and Wine on Sunday afternoon… we’ll have a food pop-up, book stacks, sketches with a local artist… it’s just a fun way to wind down,” Zhang said. She also highlighted this year’s creative elements, including the events poster designed by local artist Victoria Cardenas and raffle prizes featuring work from other Austin artists.
Day Two Afterparty — Austin Texas Book Trail{ }
Organizers say the event is not only about books, but also about supporting local businesses and artists throughout the city.
For a full schedule, participating locations, and more information on how to join, details are available online for the Austin Texas Book Trail!
For a full schedule, participating locations, and more information on how to join, details are available online for the Austin Texas Book Trail.