Cover to Cover
Book Fair for Grownups
Cover to Cover
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Water Street
Cover to Cover returns to Water Street Tampa for its second year, continuing a celebration of words, wit, and literary indulgence.
Once again, this neighborhood favorite becomes a book lover's playground lined with compelling voices, unexpected finds, and stories that linger long after the last page.
From fiction to non-fiction and everything in between, Cover to Cover invites story lovers to wander, discover, and reconnect with the simple pleasure of a great book.
ADDRESS: 971 Water St Tampa, FL 33602 United States
FREE
The Next Chapter
Bring a book, take a book, or simply donate!
While you're indulging in your next great read, don't forget to spread the love. Give your pre-loved reads a new home and discover something new in return.
All leftover books at the end of the evening will be donated to Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. to support literacy and reading in our community.
Magic Between the Covers
Get your mind out of the gutter and onto the page. This is a grownup book fair like no other.
For one evening only, stories come to life and every turn of the page sparks something unexpected. Wander through pop-up bookstores, creative a bookish bazaar of creativity and craft, and a Blind Date with a Book experience that's sure to leave you wanting more.
Bookish Bazaar
Relive the nostalgia of a classic book fair filled with curated reads by local bookstores and cozy reading nooks.
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Reversed Library
A giant, community-style “give a book, take a book” exchange inspired by your favorite neighborhood little library.
Journaling Experience
Slow down and reflect with a cozy, guided space designed for thoughtful journaling.
Typewriter Experience
Step back in time and tap out your thoughts on a classic vintage typewriter.
Meet Local Authors
Discover and support talented local writers with a dedicated showcase of homegrown stories.
Bookish Crafts
Get creative with hands-on, book-inspired crafts.
Your Alter Ego at Alter Ego
Step into Reading Sessions at Alter Ego, and slip into a different side of yourself.
Where books meet ambiance, slow down, settle in, and lose yourself in a great read. Find a cozy corner or gather with friends as the evening unfolds, making this your downtown escape for stories, sounds, and a sneaky sip!
Located inside Alter Ego from 7:30 - 9:00 PM
A Real Page-Turner on Water Street
Cover to Cover brings stories off the page and into conversation, hosting a curated lineup of authors throughout the evening. From thoughtful discussions to intimate readings and personal signings, these moments offer rare access to the creative minds behind the books.
Author Talks
Join featured authors for thoughtful conversations about their work, creative process, and the ideas behind the stories. These talks offer context and perspective, transporting us into their worlds.
Author Readings
Authors will share selected passages from their work, offering insight through voice, pacing, and emphasis that will bring new dimension to their stories and novels.
Author Signings
Meet the authors up close and personal, have your book signed, and exchange a few words for an intimate interaction that turns a great read into a meaningful keepsake.
From Start To End
Timing and Duration
Cover to Cover takes place annually in Water Street Tampa from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Location
This event takes place on and around Water Street, including Raybon Plaza and Via Corazon.
Parking
There are numerous parking locations located in and around Water Street Tampa and the Channel District. Check out our map of parking locations here.
Dining
Make it an evening out and enjoy an array of restaurants and bars in Water Street Tampa and Sparkman Wharf. See all the options by clicking here.
