New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University Announces 2025 Schedule

The fourth annual New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University has unveiled its full 2025 schedule, showcasing an unparalleled lineup of over 150 renowned authors, thought leaders and creatives. With more than 90 engaging panels, book signings, a culinary symposium, Family Day activities and a closing musical celebration, the free festival runs from March 27-29 on Tulane University’s uptown campus. All events are free and open to the public, with seating available on a first-come basis. Registration is encouraged but not required.

This year’s festival features a powerhouse lineup of bestselling authors, journalists and thought leaders, including W. Kamau Bell, Connie Chung, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Doris Kearns Goodwin, John Grisham, Walter Isaacson, Don Lemon, Sharon McMahon, Casey McQuiston, Gen. David H. Petraeus, Nate Silver, Bryan Stevenson, Tara Westover, Bob Woodward and more. Recently added to the lineup: David Axelrod and Karl Rove.

The complete festival schedule of sessions is available here. 

“We strive to create a festival that offers something for everyone, from thought-provoking literary discussions to interactive experiences for families.”

- Festival Co-Chair Cheryl Landrieu

As a celebration of literature, culture and ideas, the New Orleans Book Festival immerses attendees in thought-provoking discussions, live music and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. Each day will feature captivating conversations with leading voices shaping today’s most important narratives.

“This festival is more than a literary gathering—it’s an immersive experience that blends the best of storytelling, culture and intellectual exploration,” said Festival Co-Chair and Leonard Lauder Professor of American History and Values Walter Isaacson. “Our goal is to spark curiosity and inspire conversations that continue well beyond the festival.”

Thursday’s opening session, presented in collaboration with The Atlantic, will feature Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg alongside Pulitzer Prize-winner Anne Applebaum, McKay Coppins, Elaina Plott Calabro and Adam Serwer. The evening concludes with a must-see conversation with Just Mercy author and Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson.

New for 2025, book enthusiasts Cleo Wade and Nicole Richie will bring a unique, interactive pop-up experience dubbed the Burgundy Room, which will offer attendees an intimate and immersive space within the Hyatt Regency Festival Tent. This cozy retreat will feature exclusive coffee chats with authors, as well as other creative engagements designed to foster connection and conversation beyond the festival’s mainstage programming. This exciting new addition will offer a fresh, dynamic way for attendees to interact with literature, creativity and community.

Family Day at the Fest will take place on Saturday, March 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering an exciting lineup of children’s and family programming. This year’s Family Day will welcome 22 local and national authors and interactive storytelling experiences. Scholastic will be offering every child the opportunity to select up to three books of their choosing, free of charge, thanks to a generous donation from the children’s book company. Local independent bookstore Garden District Book Shop will host book sales at Family Day, with signing opportunities for young readers.

The festival closes on a high note Saturday afternoon with a lively performance by Louisiana Music Hall of Fame inductee and New Orleans rhythm & blues legend Deacon John. The celebration, held in the Hyatt Regency Festival Tent from 4:45-6 p.m., will also feature free crawfish, in partnership with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board. 

“We strive to create a festival that offers something for everyone, from thought-provoking literary discussions to interactive experiences for families,” said Festival Co-Chair Cheryl Landrieu. “This year’s lineup promises to inspire, entertain and deepen our collective love for storytelling.”

Author book signings will follow panel discussions, with books available for purchase in the Hyatt Regency Festival Tent, where Baldwin & Co. and Octavia Books will once again partner as the festival’s official booksellers. The full schedule of book signings will be posted in the weeks ahead of the festival. 

Also new this year, the festival is launching a digital guide in collaboration with Bloomberg Connects. The free arts and culture app will help attendees navigate the festival’s lineup—with real-time updates, session details and Family Day activities. The guide will enhance the festival experience for attendees. 

The 2025 festival poster, designed by acclaimed local artist Simon, will be available for purchase at the festival and online.

For more information on the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University, please visit ​bookfest.tulane.edu or follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.