Two students holding the YA By The Bay glasses sign at the balloon backdrop
For Students

Your Voice Matters. Your Story Matters.

Your backstage pass!

YA By The Bay is one packed day where you never quite know what’s going to happen next. Bestselling authors. Big personalities. Live challenges. Wild ideas. Rooms you’ll want to race your friends to before they fill up.

Pitch an idea. Take a challenge. Ask the question nobody else will. Meet famous authors and discover a future you didn’t know existed.

You won’t just hear stories here. You’ll get in the middle of them.

See What Happens at the Festival Meet the Authors

Student POV: Festival Spotlight

Made by students in Blake High School's TV and Film program. Watch them share their experiences at the festival.

Two students posing with the YA By The Bay sunglasses sign A student hugging the Pikachu mascot A group of students under the balloon arch Students writing on the festival's giant banner Students at a sponsor table picking up festival bags The Pikachu mascot in the hallway with a festival guest

Why Your Story Matters

Every person has a unique perspective shaped by their experiences, culture, and dreams. Your story, whether it's about overcoming challenges, celebrating your heritage, or imagining new worlds, has the power to inspire, educate, and connect with others.

At YA by the Bay, we believe that young voices are essential to shaping our literary landscape. When you share your story, you're not just writing words on a page, you're claiming your space in the world and showing others that their experiences matter too.

Your voice is valuable. Your perspective is needed. Your story deserves to be heard.

Educators Have Their Own Page

Is your teacher bringing the class? Not yet? Send them here.

Go to the educators page