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Lore & Legends Fest 2027


  • John S. Knight Center 77 East Mill Street Akron, OH, 44308 United States (map)

Sarah Goehrke is an Attending Author at Lore & Legends Fest 2027!

LORE & LEGENDS FEST is a 3-day fantasy literary convention August 20–22, 2027. Expect epic panels, author signings, a fantasy ball, a sprawling bookish marketplace, cosplay showcases, workshops, and late-night mischief.

About

Lore & Legends Fest is a full-immersion, fantasy-first celebration built for readers, authors, and creators who want the magic of a book world… but in real life. Think: a convention experience with the heart of a bookish community gathering, layered with quests, lore, and “I can’t believe this is real” moments around every corner. ✨📚

The vibe

The entire weekend is designed like you’ve stepped into a living story. The atmosphere is whimsical, cinematic, and community-forward: cozy enough to feel like found family, big enough to feel like a true festival. Costumes are welcome, enthusiasm is mandatory (kidding… mostly), and everything is built to make people feel like they belong, whether they’re hardcore fantasy readers, romantasy devotees, casual book lovers, or first-time con-goers.

What’s happening all weekend

Author + reader programming

Expect a packed schedule of programming that balances entertainment, education, and pure fangirl/reader joy:

  • Panels & Q&As with authors across fantasy, romantasy, dark fantasy, indie favorites, and rising debuts

  • Workshops & premium sessions (craft, publishing, worldbuilding, branding, tropes, spice levels, you name it)

  • Live readings, “first chapter” showcases, trope talk, and behind-the-scenes sessions

  • Meet & greets, signings, and photo ops

The vendor hall

A sprawling marketplace that feels like a fantasy bazaar:

  • Indie authors + small presses with gorgeous books and exclusive editions

  • Bookish merch: art prints, pins, jewelry, candles/wax melts, apparel, special edition accessories, dice, trinkets, handmade goods

  • Artist alley energy with a “wander and discover” layout that encourages browsing (and accidental spending, as is tradition)

Community experiences

Not just “things to watch,” but things to do:

  • Interactive quests/scavenger hunts you can complete throughout the weekend for stamps, prizes, or bragging rights

  • Photo moments and themed backdrops that make your camera roll feel like a portal opened

  • Trinket trading / charm swaps / community tables depending on the day’s activities

  • Opportunities to connect through reader meetups, fandom circles, and “find your people” programming

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September 20

2026 North Coast Indie Author Book Expo