Browse books, discover classic book fair treasures, play retro games, and relive the magic. Join us for a 21+ Friday-night celebration, or bring the whole family on Saturday.
All funds go toward purchasing high-quality books for children who participate in the Library’s Summer Reading Club.
Two ways to experience the Flashback Book Fair
Adult Night (21+)
Friday May 1st – Doors open at 6:30pm
A nostalgic night of books, drinks, retro games, and music with DJ Big Perm.
Family Day
Saturday May 2nd – 11am – 1pm
A kid-friendly book fair with books, face painting, and family fun. No tickets needed.
Friday Night Festivities (21+ Only)
Friday, May 1st 2026
Main Library – Downtown South Bend
Friday night is the grown-up version of the book fair you remember. Grab a drink, flip through stacks of books, buy a Ferrari or Lisa Frank poster, and enjoy a night of music, games, and nostalgia.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance, which we highly recommend to speed up your check-in process.
What to Expect
- DJ Big Perm Spinning from 7-9 pm
- Retro Games & Classic Video Games
- Throwback book fair books and gift items for sale
- Books for Grown Ups available for purchase from Brain Lair Books
Admission
- $5 advance tickets
- $10 at the door
- NEW – VIP – $50
- Early Entry beginning at 5:30pm
- Includes 2 Signature Drinks or 1 drink and 1 “lunch tray”
Saturday Morning Family Fun (May 2nd, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Who’s Invited: All Ages
- Where: Main Library – Community Learning Center
- Activities: Throwback games, free face painting, book browsing, and purchasing.
- Tickets are not required for the Family event on Saturday morning.
- Why It’s Special: Whether you’re reliving your childhood favorites or discovering new titles, there’s something for everyone.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsor
The cover charge, and a portion of book/gift item/food/drink sales, all proceeds from library merch, and all outright donations go to the St. Joe County Public Library Foundation. The mission of the St. Joe County Public Library Foundation is to build an engaged community of patrons, advocates, donors, and supporters dedicated to helping the library empower people and enrich lives, now and in the future.
