January is when the year feels fresh again—clean pages, new stories, and a calendar full of events to spark inspiration. For readers who love fiction, horror, sci-fi, and philosophy, 3 U.S. festivals stand out next January. Each offers its own atmosphere: creative, curious, and full of people who love stories as much as you do.
Below, avid reader Anthony Schiliro shares a quick look at where you might want to spend a winter weekend
Albuquerque Comic Con
If you enjoy storytelling that bends reality—sci-fi universes, horror tropes, or mythic heroes—Albuquerque Comic Con is a strong start to the year. Running January 16–18, the event fills the Albuquerque Convention Center with artists, writers, indie creators, cosplay, panel discussions, and rows of vendors.
This isn’t a traditional book fair, but for someone like Anthony Schiliro, who finds inspiration in cross-genre narratives and visual storytelling, it’s a fascinating look at how fiction comes alive beyond the page.
Learn more at the official site: albuquerquecomiccon.com.
Sunshine State Book Festival
On January 23–24, Gainesville hosts the Sunshine State Book Festival, bringing together authors across genres—from literary fiction to fantasy and everything in between. Held at Santa Fe College’s Fine Arts Hall, it’s an easy, approachable festival where you can meet writers, browse new releases, and attend readings without the bustle of a massive convention.
For readers drawn to varied voices and emerging talent, this festival offers an intimate way to discover new books.
Details are available at sunshinestatebookfestival.com.
F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival
Closing out the month is the F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival, happening January 30–31 in Daytona Beach. This event blends literature with film, featuring authors, publishers, and a special movie program the evening before the festival begins.
Its focus on storytelling across mediums aligns closely with how Anthony Schiliro approaches creativity—drawing from books, cinema, and philosophy to shape the way he sees the world.
Explore the schedule at freshbookfestivals.net.
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