Aspen Literary Festival Next Gen
A series of free programs for young readers and families
September 25-27, 2026
Adult chaperones can follow the Free General Admission registration pathway to register young readers.
About the Next Gen Program
Aspen Literary Festival is launching Next Gen, a series of free programs for young readers and families. Young people accompanied by an adult chaperone can meet bestselling authors, discover new books and take part in engaging literary conversations and creative activities. Presented in partnership with Pitkin County Library and schools throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, Next Gen brings a diverse range of enriching literary programs to local families, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to read, write and grow.
Featured authors of young people’s literature at the 2026 festival include: #1 New York Times bestselling Kelly Yang (the Font Desk series), twin authors Paul A. Reynolds (The Sydney and Simon series) and Peter H. Reynolds (The Dot), and Newbery Medal winner Matt de la Peña.
Partners and Sponsors
Thank you to our local partners, the Pitkin County Library and Roaring Fork Valley schools. Special thanks to Arny and Anne Porath for supporting the Next Gen program.
Author Talk & Reception with Jamil Jan Kochai
Tuesday, July 25
6-8 pm @ Pitkin County Library
free & open to all, registration requested
