The True Lit festival is devoted to the tremendous literary traditions Northwest Arkansas has fostered over the years. Literary roots run deep in Fayetteville, providing the fertile ground that continues to produce talented and acclaimed writers in the region. Our community loves great literature, so the festival has presented distinguished authors such as Jack Gantos, Jacqueline Woodson, Lois Lowry, Zadie Smith and Kwame Alexander.

Entering our 7th year, True Lit continues to showcase author events for all ages, with school visits reaching over 4,000 students from the 4th–12th grades, writing workshops designed to help new talent find publishers, as well as poetry readings and art classes to spark the creativity in everyone.

This year, we are delighted to present festival keynotes by Gene Luen Yang and Jarrett Krosoczka at free public events. With such a variety of perspectives, expressions, and stories, we hope you will join us!