Portland Book Festival sells out for the first time in 11 years

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — The Portland Book Festival has achieved a significant milestone by selling out for the first time in its history.
Amanda Bullock, senior artistic director of Literary Arts, expressed excitement over the event’s success, noting the vibrant turnout and favorable weather.
The Portland Book Festival has achieved a significant milestone by selling out for the first time in its history.{ }The festival, held in the city’s park blocks and at the art museum, featured a diverse array of activities. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025/Felisha LeCher, KATU News
“We sold out for the first time ever, which is so exciting,” Bullock said. “It’s so great to see people showing up and being in community together.”
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The festival, held in the city’s park blocks and at the art museum, featured a diverse array of activities.
Attendees could enjoy authors in conversation across ten stages, with topics ranging from picture books to historical biographies.
The Portland Book Festival has achieved a significant milestone by selling out for the first time in its history.{ }The festival, held in the city’s park blocks and at the art museum, featured a diverse array of activities. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025/Felisha LeCher, KATU News
Bullock highlighted the unique pairing of authors’ readings with visual art in the museum galleries, allowing visitors to unexpectedly encounter poets.
The event also included a bustling book fair in the Mark Building, featuring over 80 vendors offering everything from books to book-themed earrings.
For the first time, the festival introduced real tattoos on the second floor, which has proven popular among attendees.
The Portland Book Festival has achieved a significant milestone by selling out for the first time in its history.{ }The festival, held in the city’s park blocks and at the art museum, featured a diverse array of activities. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025/Felisha LeCher, KATU News
Bullock attributed the festival’s sell-out status to a growing desire for community engagement. “Honestly, I think people want to be together,” she said. “They want to be around people who like the things they like.”
The festival’s success is a testament to the thriving literary community in Portland and the surrounding region.
The Portland Book Festival has achieved a significant milestone by selling out for the first time in its history.{ }The festival, held in the city’s park blocks and at the art museum, featured a diverse array of activities. Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025/Felisha LeCher, KATU News
With plans already underway for next year’s event, the Portland Book Festival continues to be a cornerstone for literary enthusiasts.




