The Merced's Annual Litfest brings together writers and lovers of writing for a day of literary events held throughout different locations in the heart of Merced. Our goal is to connect and build community among writers and lovers of writing throughout California's Central Valley while simultaneously celebrating our blossoming Downtown Area. The event is organized by Writing Studies Associate Teaching Professor, Samantha Tetangco Ocena, and retired Merritt Writing Program lecturer, Brigitte Bowers. Both Sam and Brigitte are long-time residents of the Merced area.
This event was inspired by the Fresno LitHop, created by California Poet Laureate Lee Herrick. We are grateful for our Fresno counterparts for creating and organizing such an inspiring event.
Where and When is LitFest held?
The Merced LitFest is held in Downtown Merced. Locations will vary each year.
This year's LitFest carries the theme of Hope & Hard Times and will take place in the last weekend of September. Check back for our full schedule, which will be posted in late July or early August. Until then, you can view last year's schedule here.
Do I need a ticket?
Events are free & open to all. Seating occurs on a first-come, first-served basis. No tickets or advanced purchases are required to attend Merced's LitFest, though we do encourage attendees and participants to support local downtown businesses, whose owners have generously donated their spaces for this event. They are good people, and we are grateful to them for their time and support.
How long does a LitFest Event last?
LitFest readings begin on the hour and last for roughly 45 minutes, which should leave you with ample time to move from one venue to another. Events usually have between 3-4 readers, and each reader shares their work for about 10 minutes each.
The entire LitFest will begin on Friday, September 26 with a Keynote reading with award-winning author, Lori Ostlund. Then, on Saturday, September 27th, the remaining LitFest events will take place. Check back here later for our full schedule.
How far do I need to walk between venues?
While space between each venue varies, in 2024, the two farthest locations (Second Time Around Books to Sensory Lab Coffee Shop) were located 0.3 miles inbetween, which was roughly an 8-minute walk.
Can I be a reader at your upcoming LitFest?
Absolutely. If you'd like to be a reader, you can submit an individual or group proposal by June 1, 2025. Full proposal guidelines are available here.
Please limit yourself to two reading proposals per reader in order to avoid time conflicts and/or double-booked readings.
How many people attend LitFest?
In our inaugural year, we hosted 50 different creative writers as across 14 unique literary events, all held in 4 different Downtown Merced locations. Over 100 visitors were in attendance.
