2026 Literary Festival
October 2-3, 2026
The highly anticipated Lit Fest 2026 promises to be more than an event—it’s a movement. With the theme “Cultivating Books, Brands, and Brilliant Ideas All in One Chapter,” this Chicago-based festival shines a spotlight on the power of storytelling while bridging the worlds of publishing, business, and innovation.
Chicago Marriott Midway
Address:
6520 South Cicero Ave.
Chicago, Illinois, 60638
Dates:
October 2-3, 2026
Phone:
708.594.5500
GET YOUR HOTEL RESERVATIONS COMING SOON!
What to Expect & Get Involved
Meet the Minds Behind the Magic
Shake hands with visionaries.
Hear their stories. Feel their passion. Leave inspired to write your own.
Marketplace of Creativity
A treasure hunt for the bold and curious.
Books, art, fashion, culture — crafted by the dreamers in our community.
Stories That Move You
Where words leap off the page and into your heart.
Poets, storytellers, and performers delivering moments you’ll remember.
Unlock Your Creative Power
Workshops and panels built to ignite your potential.
Learn the tools, secrets, and insider wisdom of the industry.
Future Authors in the Making
A world where young imaginations run free.
Hands-on activities and storytelling adventures for every little reader.
A Cultural Movement
Lit Fest is bigger than an event — it’s community rising.
Connect. Collaborate. Create lasting impact together.
MEET THE TRIFECTA
Shenitha Finesse Anniece is an author, publisher, and literary entrepreneur from Chicago’s Robert Taylor housing projects, driven by resilience, faith, and a commitment to creating her own opportunities. She is the Founder and CEO of S.H.E. Publishing LLC, launched in honor of her family and grandmother, Janice Anderson. Under her leadership, the company has earned an A+ BBB rating, published over 60 authors, expanded into multiple imprints, and reached global distribution.
With more than 25 years of leadership in the Federal Judiciary, Shenitha blends operational expertise with impactful storytelling, championing author development, branding, and sustainable publishing—while inspiring others to build their own tables and lead with purpose.
Shenitha Finesse
Dr. Calenthia Miller is a highly accomplished individual who has dedicated her career to healthcare administration, education, and mentoring. As the CEO of A’Lure Publishing, LLC, Activating Excellence Consulting, LLC, and Canvas of Thoughts, LLC, Dr. Miller has been instrumental in promoting excellence in healthcare and inspiring others to reach their full potential. Her greatest achievement is her children Lorenzo and Kahari and her granddaughter Armoni.
Dr. Calenthia Miller
Elogeia Hadley is an entrepreneur, author, and advocate from Chicago. As the founder of En’spired Publishing, she is dedicated to uplifting voices within the Black and autism communities. Her books— including WHO ARE WE?, WHO IS SHE?, and Amazing Is My Superpower—celebrate African American history and share her family’s autism journey.
Elogeia Hadley
