What to Expect

Who Doesn’t Love a Giant Book Fair?

 

That’s what The Bookshelf is — a fantastic way for readers of all ages to connect with local Canadian authors of all genres and age ranges.

Traditionally, every year at The Bookshelf we showcase 50+ authors, writing organizations, small publishers, and reading-related artisans.

For FREE!

You don’t have pay to get in and there’s always a ton of free stuff to look forward to:

Author Readings – Hang out in our MarketPlace Lounge (the stage area of the Market), have a snack, eat your lunch, and listen to authors of all genres read excerpts from their books

Bookshelf Bucks – Get a $5 gift card to spend at any participating book vendor in the fair

Kids Zone – Bring your children and make a free craft or play Plinko for prizes

Scavenger Hunt – All ages are encouraged to fill their Book Genre Card with stickers, signatures, and stamps and then enter (for free!) to win an amazing prize

Spot Prizes – Every 20 min someone will be randomly chosen to win a free book

Meet Famous Characters – We always invite a few well-known cosplayers and actors to dress up and hang out with us for free selfie-photo-ops (In previous years we’ve had Elsa of York Region, Chase from PAW Patrol, Marky Monday, & even Wonder Woman!)

We even have a dollar fundraiser for items donated by our sponsors. All money raised goes into supporting the next Bookshelf event.

Come Meet Your Next Favourite Author

NOTE: During the time of COVID-19 The Bookshelf will be following the mandates of the Ontario Health Advisor, York Region Public Health, and the Town of Newmarket regarding these types of in-person events, when they can happen, how many attendees are permitted at one time, prerequisites for personal protective equipment, and more. Vendors and attendees must individually take full responsibility to assess any risks to their health, considering all factors and information available. At one week prior to the Show, we will verify continuation or cancellation.

At this time, we will be moving the event outdoors to the Riverwalk Commons just north of Water Street with a reduced number of booths and no extras except for the dollar draw. Once larger gatherings are permitted indoors again, the Bookshelf will look to return to its former size and model. Thank you for understanding.