Illustration of Santa in a red suit sitting in an armchair as a small child shows him a paper list beside a lit fireplace (Get Lit: Santa's Book Fair 2026)
Christmas Parties

Get Lit: Santa's Book Fair 2026

Local independent Chicago bookstores gather at the American Writers Museum for a holiday-themed book fair for adults. Attendees can browse titles, take photos and listen to holiday stories with Santa, and purchase beer, wine, or the featured Red Nose winter cocktail. Admission includes entry to the museum and two complimentary beverage tickets, with proceeds supporting youth education programs.

Wed, Dec 9, 2026 21+

Plan Your Visit

Neighborhood

The Loop

Food & Drink

Beer, wine, and the Red Nose winter cocktail are available; admission includes two complimentary beverage tickets, and extra drink tickets can be purchased.

Location

American Writers Museum · 180 N. Michigan Avenue, 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60601 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ (1/5)

Best For

Adult book lovers

Vibe

Festive and literary

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Buy tickets ahead if you want to avoid relying on the limited number available at the door.
  • Bring a valid ID, since guests must show one at entry.
  • Teachers and school librarians can use the education newsletter code to access a limited number of discounted tickets.
  • Bring the member access code emailed to you if you plan to use member tickets.
  • Budget for additional drink tickets if you want beverages beyond the two included with admission.

Special Events & Promotions

  • A limited number of discounted tickets are available for teachers and school librarians.
  • AWM members can use an emailed access code to reveal the member ticket price.
  • Additional drink tickets are available for purchase.
  • Santa will be there for photos and holiday stories.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend?

Guests must be 21 or older and show a valid ID at the door.

What does admission include?

Admission includes entry to the American Writers Museum and drink tickets for two complimentary beverages.

What can I do at the book fair?

Browse books from local independent Chicago bookstores, take photos with Santa, and listen to holiday stories.

Can I buy drinks beyond the included beverages?

Additional drink tickets are available for purchase; beer, wine, and the featured Red Nose cocktail are offered.

Are tickets available at the door, and are there discounts?

A limited number of tickets are available at the door. Teachers and school librarians can access a limited number of discounted tickets through the code in the AWM education newsletter; members can use their emailed access code for member tickets.

Browse Christmas in Chicago

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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