How to do the Bologna Children’s Book Fair!

The Bologna Children’s Book Fair has been going on for over 60 years- I believe this is the 61st year!

It’s my first time at the fair, and I am so excited. Illustrations are my hobby and I planned this trip around my passion for illustration, story telling and eating fantastic food!

I’m a fan of planning trip around hobbies and special interests and this is my first trip with a purpose for the year.

Check out my article: Make your next trip awesome: Travel with a purpose!

What to do before you go to the Bologna children’s book fair 

• Download the Bologna Children’s Book Fair App. It works best once installed on your phone..
• Download the schedule and venue map to avoid scrambling.
• Get the ROGER app for public transportation  info and tickets. Get the Marconi Express ticket  from the airport to Bologna Central Station on this App.
• Brace yourself for long entry lines. Ticket or not, the entrance can be chaotic.

Check out the Illustrator’s Survival Corner on the App

The Survival Corner has information about workshops, chats and interesting things that are going on in the fair. 

What to do about your portfolio

• Portfolio reviews? Book an appointment at least a month in advance. Slots go fast!
• Should you bring a portfolio? Maybe. A small portfolio book or iPad is fine, but don’t expect long, in-depth reviews. People are busy! Instead, collect names, take notes, and follow up afterward.
• Be open to serendipitous connections—whether at an exhibit, a chat, or over an espresso.

• Get Organized

  The fair can be overwhelming, so prep ahead:

  • Check the daily schedule on the app.
  • List your must-see exhibits and artists you want to learn from.
  • Find masterclasses and talks that interest you.
  • Research publishers and their focus.
  • Look for art events around Bologna. Bookstores, cafés, and galleries may have related exhibitions.

Who should go to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair?

• Illustrators.
• Art students interested in illustration.
• Hobbyists.
• Set your intentions!

Why are you going to the fair?

• Are you going for educational purposes?
• Are you going for networking?
• Are you going for inspiration?
• Do you want to learn about the publishing aspect of children’s books?

Stay focused!

Why should illustrators, illustration students, and illustration hobbyists go to the book fair in Bologna?

Going to a fair like this is like taking an illustration, publishing, and portfolio creation course! You will have the opportunity to see artwork from all over the world.

Publishers will be showing their books, and it’s a chance for you to learn about their interests and determine your ideal fit.

You will have an opportunity to learn about licensing, multimedia, copyright, merchandise, products, and entertainment.

Inspiration for Illustrators

• Meet fellow illustrators.
• Meet people who work in the illustration and publishing world.
• Learn how children’s book publishers find new storytellers.

What else is going on at the fair?

The fair features exhibition salons celebrating talented illustrators, honor and award illustrators.

• Pippi Longstocking turns 80! Created by Astrid Lindgren, Pippi has been inspiring kids since 1945.
• Katsumi Komagata, the late Japanese illustrator and bookmaker, is being honored.
• Guest illustrators will be speaking—don’t miss these cultural chats!

Networking

Fairs are prime networking grounds for publishers and artists. Connections made here can be valuable for the future.

Personal Survival Tips for the Bologna Children’s book fair

• Bring coins & cash—you may need a locker.
• Pack tissues—bathroom supplies run out fast.
• Wear comfy shoes! You’ll be walking a lot.
• Dress light. A down jacket is easier to carry than a heavy wool coat.
• Avoid wide pants. You don’t want them touching the bathroom floor.
• Use a light bag. A crossbody is better than a backpack.
• Skip collecting too many cards and flyers. Your bag will get heavy fast. Take photos instead.
• Carry a small notebook for quick sketches or notes.
• Bring a portable phone charger.
• Take breaks. Sit, breathe, hydrate.
• Pack snacks if you’re on a budget.

Bologna’s Children’s Book Fair is an experience.

Plan well, stay open to chance meetings, and most of all—enjoy!

Updated April 2025