6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Reception
7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Presentation
The ticket prices on this page reflect the face value price + $2.75 online Etix fee. Tickets are $56.25 – $75 if booked directly through the Ticket Office in person or by phone at: 651-690-6700. Credit card transactions will also be charged a 3% processing fee. See Ticket Office information here.
Join us for the 35th Annual Midwest Book Awards Gala on June 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Frey Theater at St. Catherine University. This premier event honors excellence in independent publishing throughout the twelve-state Midwest region and will be emceed by Kansas City media personality Cherayla Haynes. The celebration begins with a reception featuring drinks and hors d’oeuvres, where guests can browse displays of this year’s finalist books while connecting with fellow publishing professionals, authors, and book enthusiasts in a vibrant atmosphere of literary appreciation. A special highlight of this milestone anniversary will include a heartfelt tribute to Midwest Independent Publishers Association (MiPA) founder Sybil Smith, honoring her pioneering vision and enduring legacy in establishing this cornerstone organization for regional independent publishing. The pinnacle of the evening will be the announcement of Gold winners across numerous categories, recognizing outstanding achievement in independent publishing. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the diverse voices and exceptional quality that define our region’s independent publishing community. For thirty-five years, these awards have spotlighted excellence in content, design, and production while fostering connections among publishing professionals throughout the Midwest. Business attire is suggested, and advance registration is required for this signature literary event that showcases the best of Midwest independent publishing. All are welcome!