Capital Rare Book Fair

The Capital Rare Book Fair returns to the University Club in Washington, D.C. for a weekend dedicated to bibliophiles, collectors, and curious browsers. Running from May 29 to May 31, the fair brings together two dozen booksellers from across the country offering thousands of rare books, maps, prints, and ephemera, with prices ranging from $10 to $100,000. The event is part of DC's first book collecting festival, featuring a series of panels and social activities that enhance the experience for all attendees. Special opening night tickets provide access to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the special collections at Hillwood and Georgetown.

When: Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31, 2026.
Venue: The University Club (the mansion on Sixteenth Street) in Downtown D.C.
Tickets: General admission is $20, students are $15, and children ages 16 and under enter free. Opening night tickets are $60 and include VIP access to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of special collections at Hillwood and Georgetown.
Exhibitors: Two dozen booksellers from around the country.
Items for sale: Thousands of rare books, antique manuscripts, historic documents, maps, prints, and ephemera priced from $10 to $100,000.
Activities: The fair is held in conjunction with DC's first book collecting festival, featuring panels, social activities, and an opening night with VIP tours.
Ages: Free for ages 16 and under; all ages are welcome.
Note: Additional club amenities and social events are offered to members but are separate from the fair itself.