Sag Harbor, NY — The Black Authors Festival is making its highly anticipated return to the Hamptons this summer, and it’s giving what it always gives—culture, conversation, and community. On Saturday, August 2, 2025, the third annual event takes over the Breakwater Yacht Club in Sag Harbor with the powerful theme: “The Power of Literacy.”
This year’s festival centers Black authorship as a form of liberation, bringing together changemakers and cultural icons who understand that storytelling is a tool for truth—and transformation.
Among the honorees: Sunny Hostin, Don Lemon, Marc H. Morial, Alton Fitzgerald White, Harriette Cole, Dr. Cheryl Wills, Pamela McBride, and Attika J. Torrence, along with Youth Author Honoree Amaryllis Greene, a fresh voice in the literary space.
The day will be co-hosted by Shannon LaNier, Emmy-winning anchor and Tyler Perry’s Duplicity actor, and Arrianee LeBeau, a multi-Emmy Award-winning journalist who brings her storytelling brilliance to the stage.
But this isn’t just a Black book fair—it’s a full-on movement. Expect live author signings, thought-provoking panels, Black indie film screenings, and a live fundraiser benefiting A Father’s Love, a nonprofit doing the real work in community upliftment.
Some of the most talked-about sessions include:
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Black Women in America Panel, sponsored by Kacy’s Boudoir and moderated by Newsday’s Rochell Sleets
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Black Men and Literacy Panel, sponsored by Ralph McDaniels’ Video Music Box Collection, moderated by Maurice Williams of A Father’s Love
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A Self-Publishing Bootcamp
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A Book Ban Awareness Forum
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And a bold Civic Proclamation Ceremony—officially declaring August as Black Authors Festival Month in the Hamptons
With local leaders like Legislator Jason Richberg, Assembly Members Michaelle Solages and Tommy John Schiavoni, and East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez already tapped in, the impact is undeniable.
“This festival honors the legacy of Black authors while championing the voices we need right now,” says Phil Andrews, president of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce.
“This is about protecting our stories, our truth, and our freedom to speak,” adds Darlene Williams, president of the Black Authors Festival.
The energy will be high, the crowd will be beautiful, and the mission? Bigger than books. It’s about reclaiming narratives, promoting literacy equity, and making sure our stories continue to be told—loudly and without apology.
Want In?
Tickets are live now, but don’t wait—last year sold out. You can also apply to vend, become a sponsor, or join as a Festival Ambassador.
Visit BlackAuthorsFestival.com for details.
