Books at the Mansion: Book Fair + Mini Reading Retreat

Spend the day surrounded by books at Kirks Mansion with an all-ages book fair followed by a cozy adults-only reading retreat. BOOKS AT THE MANSION Books, quiet corners, snacks, and several uninterrupted hours to read without anyone asking what is for dinner. We have planned an entire day around all the things readers actually want. Presented by Kirks Mansion in partnership with Cozy Girls Collective, Books at the Mansion brings together two book-filled experiences: an all-ages Autumn Book Fair during the morning and an adults-only Mini Reading Retreat that afternoon. Guests may attend the Book Fair, the Mini Reading Retreat, or both. AUTUMN BOOK FAIR 10:00 AM–2:00 PM All ages Admission: $5 per person Browse books from local authors and booksellers while enjoying a fall morning on the grounds of Kirks Mansion. Authors, booksellers, and shopping vendors will be set up throughout the event. Additional activities and author-signing opportunities may be announced as the event approaches. Food trucks will also be available, with food and vendor purchases available separately. Proceeds from Book Fair admission will be used to purchase books to be donated to local organizations. BOOK FAIR ADMISSION INCLUDES • Admission to the Autumn Book Fair • Access to participating authors, booksellers, and vendors • Access to any scheduled Book Fair activities • A fall morning on the grounds of Kirks Mansion Books, merchandise, and food-truck purchases are not included with admission. MINI READING RETREAT 3:00–7:00 PM Adults ages 18 and older Admission: $70 per person After the Book Fair ends, settle in for an adults-only afternoon created for people who would genuinely enjoy being left alone with a book - but would also like snacks nearby. The Mini Reading Retreat will include dedicated reading time, a creative activity, snacks, drinks, and comfortable spaces to read and relax at Kirks Mansion. Bring the book you are currently reading, choose something new during the Book Fair that morning, or arrive with an entirely unreasonable stack because you have no idea what mood you will be in. We understand. MINI READING RETREAT ADMISSION INCLUDES • Admission to the Autumn Book Fair • Admission to the adults-only Mini Reading Retreat • Dedicated reading time • A guided creative activity and materials • Snacks and drinks • Access to designated reading spaces at Kirks Mansion The Mini Reading Retreat is exclusively for guests ages 18 and older. EVENT DETAILS Saturday, September 26, 2026 Kirks Mansion Bluffton, South Carolina Autumn Book Fair: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM Mini Reading Retreat: 3:00–7:00 PM Advance registration is required for both experiences. Mini Reading Retreat space is limited to preserve the quiet, comfortable atmosphere of the afternoon. Come for the Book Fair, stay for the Retreat, or choose the part of the day that best suits your particular level of bookish commitment. Photography and Video Photography and video recording may take place during this event. By attending, guests acknowledge that they may appear in photographs or recordings used by Kirks Mansion and the May River Collection for promotional, marketing, social media, archival, and other business purposes. Historic Property and Outdoor Grounds Kirks Mansion is a historic property, and many events take place outdoors throughout the Mansion grounds. Guests may encounter uneven terrain, grass, gravel, brick pathways, steps, tree roots, and areas with limited lighting. Please use care while moving throughout the property and choose footwear appropriate for the setting and weather conditions. Accessibility varies throughout the historic property. Guests who have mobility concerns or require accommodations are encouraged to contact us before purchasing tickets so we can discuss the event layout and available access options.