Spun off the industry only BookExpo America, BookCon tried to create a ComicCon-like atmosphere around book publishing. The combination public and industry convention ran from 2014 to 2019. With COVID restrictions canceled the 2020 BookCon, organizer ReedPop announced the event was “retired.”

Now ReedPop plans to bring BookCon back in April 2026. According to articles in Publishers Weekly last year, the rise of BookTok and new wave of young readers led to renewed interest in a BookCon. The event is scheduled for April 18 and 19, 2026, at the Javits Center in New York City. As of January 2026, the event’s website is declaring tickets are sold out.

Applications for “Indie Alley” at BookCon 2026 are closed. ReedPop will beginning accepting applications for the 2027 event in summer 2026. ReedPop also suggests checking out the Writers Block at New York Comicon in October 2026. Applications will open in March.

To find out more about the return of BookCon, check the website: https://www.bookcon.com/