Gatherings & Readings

Events

We believe literature lives off the page. Join us for readings, book fairs, workshops, and celebrations that bring writers and readers together.

Upcoming

3 Events
Aug 23Sunday
Youth

Back to School Bash at the Armory

Join FREEAIR Books at the Armory for a back-to-school celebration in Columbia, MO. The event runs from 9 AM to 5 PM with school supplies, books, activities, and community resources for families.

  • Free and open to the public.
  • School supplies and books available.
  • Family-friendly activities and resources.
9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThe Armory, Columbia, MO
Sep 12Saturday
Festival

Zipper Fest

A vibrant community festival in the Arcade District of Columbia, MO, from 1 PM to 7 PM. Celebrate local makers, artists, authors, and the spirit of downtown Columbia.

  • Local makers, artists, and authors.
  • Live in the heart of Columbia's Arcade District.
  • Family-friendly community festival.
1:00 PM – 7:00 PMArcade District, Columbia, MO
Oct 17Saturday
Community

Community Chess Fest

Community Chess Fest

COMO, IT'S YOUR MOVE. FREEAIR Books and Peace and Hope are bringing a family-focused community festival to Columbia. This isn't about who's the best chess player — it's a day of team speed chess, live art, free play, music, food trucks, local vendors, and passport challenges with prizes. Businesses, artists, and community leaders will form teams of 3–5 and compete for the Community Chess Cup Championship Belt while everyone else watches the action, enjoys free play, and soaks up the festival atmosphere.

  • Team speed chess competition
  • Live art & creative activities
  • Free play for all ages
  • Music, food trucks & local vendors
  • Passport challenges & prizes
  • Benefiting Dreams Preferred youth publishing and local artists
  • Every Move Matters. Make A Move.
11 AM–3 PMPeace and Hope Center for Youth, 203 N. Providence, Columbia, MOSign Up

Want to partner with us?

We love collaborating with schools, bookstores, galleries, and community spaces. If you have an idea for a reading, workshop, or event, let's talk.

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Past Events

Sep 2025

Read Between the Wines

A night of fine wines, delightful pairings, and good reads at Serendipity in Columbia — a fundraiser for K-12 authors.

Apr 2026

Earth Day Festival in Boone County

FREEAIR Books joined neighbors across Boone County to celebrate Earth Day with readings, eco-conscious authors, and community programming.

2023 & 2024

Chess Tournament for School Supplies

Two years of friendly competition raising money to stock classrooms with much-needed school supplies for local students.

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