October BookFest expands lineup, celebrates Central Washington authors

WENATCHEE — Central Washington’s literary scene will take center stage at this year’s October BookFest, set for Saturday, Oct. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the LocalTel Event Center inside Pybus Public Market.

Hosted by Write On The River in partnership with A Book For All Seasons, the festival will showcase 30 local and regional authors spanning genres from children’s and young adult to memoir, poetry, romance, thriller, science fiction, and more. Organizers say the event not only celebrates books, but the community of writers and readers who create and support them.

Last year’s BookFest drew 23 authors and more than 600 attendees, a turnout organizers are hoping to top in 2025. The expanded lineup this year is designed to shine a brighter spotlight on Central Washington voices while connecting the Wenatchee Valley to statewide talent.

For retired U.S. Navy public affairs officer and steampunk writer Chad Dulac, the event is both a debut and a welcome. “As a first time author, it’s a huge opportunity,” he said. “Being welcomed into the local writing community gives me a sense of professional belonging.”

Fellow author Dawn Klinge echoed that sense of connection. “It’s really meaningful and surprisingly rewarding,” she said. “Last year, a couple of my high school teachers stopped by my table. They played a big role in shaping me as a writer, and being able to thank them in person was incredibly special.”

Klinge, who will share her Historic Hotels Collection — women’s fiction, set against the backdrop of some of America’s most famous lodgings — at this year’s festival, said the range of genres is part of what makes BookFest unique. “Even when our genres are different, we share a deep love for storytelling,” she said. “There’s a real sense of community, and I enjoy learning from and supporting my fellow writers.”

Throughout the day, visitors can meet authors, browse books, and discover new titles across a wide spectrum of storytelling. The atmosphere, organizers say, is meant to be welcoming to both avid readers and those who may simply want to sample the diversity of voices at work in the region.

Write On The River, which has long nurtured writers through workshops and community events, sees BookFest as a capstone gathering — one that puts the focus squarely on authors and the connections they build with readers.

Admission is free, and festival details are available through Write On The River.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media