Southern California is not so much a region known for showcasing the literary arts as it is the heart and soul of Hollywood. But in recent years, high-profile book festivals such as The LA Times Festival of Books, along with a number of other writer-specific celebrations have descended upon SoCal. Another, new event will take place in Pasadena, California on Saturday, May 11 from 10am-5pm. It is LitFest Pasadena 2.0 and will bring some of our area’s more diverse groundbreaking writers and performance artists to the stage. In addition, there is a writing contest open to local aspiring writers. Check it out here.

It is LitFest Pasadena and here is how the organizers describe the event:

LitFest Pasadena 2.0 will feature more than 75 authors, storytellers, performers, and exhibitors for a day that will explore an eclectic mix of subjects such as Southern California surf culture, local history, children’s and young adult literature, and more. Confirmed guests include:

JONATHAN GOLD, Pulitzer-Prize winning Los Angeles Times food critic, in conversation with the “626 Foodettes.”

REYNA GRANDE, American Book Award winner for “Across a Hundred Mountains,” speaking as a member of a panel exploring Latino literature.

KATE DURBIN, Los Angeles-based writer, performer, and founding editor of the online journal “Gaga Stigmata,” performing on and off stage.

HISTORY LIT, a project of the theater troupe Unbound Productions, performing a Harriet Beecher Stowe story.

ALAN BRENNERT, Emmy award-winning writer/producer of L.A. Law, speaking on a panel about his new novel.

BOB BAKER MARIONETTE THEATER, a treasured Los Angeles institution for more than 50 years, presenting a children’s performance.

More than 50 exhibitors will entice attendees with a variety of products, services, and activities. LitFest’s unbeatable price—free—and easy access (just steps from the Central Park Gold Line station) will make for a fantastic day for all!