2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at USC: Crowd

Visitors heard from luminaries such as Susan Lucci, Larry David and Cassandra Peterson (Elvira) as well as literary luminaries including USC professors. (USC Photo/Brian van der Brug)

University

Thousands visit University Park Campus for annual L.A. Times Festival of Books

About 150,000 people came to what has become the largest literary and cultural festival in the nation. See our favorite photos from a fun-filled weekend.

April 20, 2026 By USC News staff

The USC University Park Campus was jumping over the weekend as more than 150,000 people attended the 31st annual Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. The event featured panels, on-stage conversations and signings involving an array of literary stars, USC academics and authors, and a plethora of celebrities with newly released books.

Take a look at some of our favorite photos from the weekend.