Canadian Independent Bookstore Day 2026

Book lovers across Canada are gearing up to partake in Canadian Independent Bookstore Day (CIBD), taking place on April 25, to show their support for local independent bookstores and we’re here to spread the word and let you know all the ways in which Canadians can celebrate!

The most effective (and fun) way to kick off this celebration is to buy books! Whether you want to do this online, in person, or by phone, buying books is the best way to show your support for indie bookstores! Not to mention, this year again, buying books at a Canadian Independent Booksellers Association store on April 26 would also be the first step to participate in the Contest for Book Lovers. This enters you into a drawing where you can be one of four winners of $200 or win the grand prize of $1,000. Each book purchased is worth one entry, and books by Canadian contributors are worth double! Learn more about the details of the contest here.

If you’re not sure which bookstore to start with, find indie bookstores near you or, for those of you in Vancouver, take part in the Vancouver Book Crawl, one of the many cities participating in the Global Book Crawl, which will take place for the from April 20 to 26.

While you’re visiting these bookstores, be sure to check out bookstore activities that local shops across Canada are planning! This includes customer giveaways, discounts, exclusive products, author events, and more. To find out what these stores have planned, visit their websites and social channels.

The last way you can help is by helping to spread the word! Follow the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association on Facebook and Instagram and share their info about the campaign throughout the month of April.

For more information on Canadian Independent Bookstore Day, visit the CIBD website or read the interview with talented Canadian artist and illustrator Sid Sharp. To learn more about indie bookstores, visit indiebookstores.ca. To read more about independent bookstores, visit our compilation of blogs.

Until then, mark your calendars, pick out your tote bag, and be ready to head out!