Delhi's Annual Book and Bake Sale 2024 Details

If you're a book lover in Delhi, chances are you've heard of the Annual Book and Bake Sale at CR Park—a one-day treasure trove for readers and bargain hunters alike. If it’s news to you, no worries; now you’re in the know!

This unique event is the passion project of Swati Daftuar, Shashank Bhargava, and Smit Zaveri, who spend the year gathering donated books to sell at unbeatable prices. From classics to the latest releases, you can find everything starting as low as INR 100, with children’s books from just INR 50. The excitement is real—people start lining up early, and the crowd only grows as the day goes on. Last year, I arrived just a bit late, queuing for over an hour to get in while watching people emerge with bags full of (at least) five to ten books each. It’s a game of patience, but it’s worth it for those hidden gems!

If you’re hoping for great recommendations, look for the 'recommended' shelf curated by the organizers. It usually empties within hours. The space is easy to navigate, too; it's super simple and divided into sections according to different genres. The only drawback I felt last year was that the space was small and limited, but that's about to change. Yes, the Annual Book and Bake Sale will have a much bigger space this year but will be held at Chittaranjan Bhavan in CR Park only.

While you’re waiting or after you’ve stocked up, there’s another treat in store. Near the entrance, a selection of homemade baked goods—cookies, muffins, cakes—awaits, all lovingly crafted by local home bakers. These snacks are delicious and make the perfect addition to your book haul.

Their books and bakes donation drive is still running. So if you have something to share, reach out to them via an Instagram DM or email and get involved in this fantastic community effort.

Each year, the proceeds benefit a different charity, adding a feel-good factor to every purchase. In 2022, funds went to support Nalanda Academy, while last year they provided relief to those affected by the unrest in Manipur as well as support for the SPCA.

TLDR for The Annual Book and Bake Sale:

The Annual Book and Bake Sale is on 8 December 2024 in Delhi, with a wider area in the same location to reduce lines and wait time. You can donate books or baked goods by writing to bookandbakesale@gmail.com; the donation drive is open until 1 November 2024.