WanderLust's Bookstore Romance Day Event

WanderLust Mobile Bookstore, Madison's first and only romance-only bookstore operating out of a converted school bus, will celebrate National Bookstore Romance Day with a free community block party on Saturday, August 15th from 3 to 7 p.m. The event will take place across two East Main Street venues (Giant Jones Brewing and Old Sugar Distillery) with the WanderLust bus parked outside on Brearly Street.

The afternoon will feature six Wisconsin romance authors signing books, eleven Wisconsin makers and vendors, and craft beverages from both Giant Jones and Old Sugar Distillery. The Deliciouser, the Madison restaurant and spice maker located in the same building, will offer themed spiced popcorn inspired by the romance genre's iconic "spice levels." Admission is free and open to the public.

Following the block party, Giant Jones will host an evening of Drag Bingo beginning at 7:30 p.m., featuring performances by drag queen hosts Auntie Pasto and Char Cuterie. Bingo cards will be available for 3 for $10, or 6 for $15, and winners will receive prizes such as free Libro.fm audiobook credits, Giant Jones gift cards, and more. The WanderLust bus will remain open for browsing and purchases throughout the evening.

WanderLust opened its bus doors in February 2026, boasting a curated selection of romance novels and a filling up a calendar of community events. Bookstore Romance Day — celebrated nationally on the third Saturday of August — honors the romance genre, the bestselling category in American fiction.

"Romance is the most-read genre in the country and often one of the least valued but we're hoping to change that," said Allison Couture, co-founder of WanderLust. "When we opened in February, the response from Madison told us this community was ready for a bookstore that takes romance seriously. Bookstore Romance Day is our chance to throw the celebration this genre deserves, and to do it alongside the local authors, makers, and small businesses that make Madison what it is."

Participating authors include Averie August, Harper Black, Susanna Daniel, Liz Lincoln, Lacie M. Lou, and Louise Mayberry. Vendors include Analu Pure Botanicals, Armchair Ceramics, Bewitched Between Bindings, Cedarfish Boat Company, Chase My Creations, Crafted LLC, Daisy Chain Art, Design With Purpose, Hinoki Florals and Gifts, Monarch Threads, and Ro's Garland.

The event is free to attend. There is a per card fee for participation in Drag Bingo. Giant Jones Brewing and Old Sugar Distillery are located at 931 E. Main Street, Madison. More information is available at wanderlustmobilebooks.com and on Instagram at @WanderLustMobileBooks.