I don’t have a ticket. Can I just show up?
No, this event is sold out. You must have a ticket to enter the event. Call the bookstore at 703.548.4092 for wait list information.
Where do I pick up my tickets and book?
Pick up your tickets and books at the Durant Arts Center. If you have already picked up your book, your tickets will be waiting for you at the Durant Center.
Where is the Durant Arts Center?
The Durant Center is just a block away from Hooray for Books! at 1605 Cameron Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Click here for directions.
Where can I park?
There is limited parking at the Durant Center’s lot—you will likely need to park on the street or at a garage. The free neighborhood street parking is 2-3 hours and restrictions vary. Metered spots are 2-3 hours and restrictions end at 9 p.m. Our meters use Parkmobile and spots within a few blocks of the Center are three hour spots. Restrictions vary from block to block—be sure to read the sign on your block. There are several garages in the area, but some close early. Be sure to check the garage’s hours before parking. For more information, please go to visitalexandria.com.
What time should I arrive at the Durant Arts Center?
The box office opens at 5:30 p.m. and the auditorium opens at 6 p.m. Shannon’s presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.
I arrived early. What should I do?
Click here to view our list of things to do and where to eat. Hooray for Books! is also just a couple blocks away at 1555 King Street. We have books and gifts for all ages, plus we gift wrap for free! Remember, you will pick up your pre-ordered Shannon Messenger books and tickets at the Durant Center.
May I bring food and drinks with me?
No, please make sure you finish your snacks and beverages before entering the Durant Center.
Can I buy more Shannon Messenger books at the event?
Yes, we will have a pop-up shop at the Durant Center. We can take credit cards, cash, and checks.
Do I have an assigned seat?
No, seating is open and first come, first served.
Will Shannon sign my shirt, fan art or other memorabilia?
No, Shannon will sign only books.
Can I bring my Shannon Messenger books from home?
Shannon will sign all books purchased from Hooray for Books! She also will sign one book brought from home.
I have Group A but my friend has Group F. Can we both get our books signed together in Group A?
No, you are not allowed to move up in the line. However, you both can join Group F. We encourage you to remain with your assigned group.
What happens if I lose my signing line ticket?
Unfortunately, we will be unable to replace your ticket. You will have to wait until the end of the line.
How long will I have to wait in the signing line?
Good news—you will only wait in line when your group is called. There are approximately 10 people per group and it takes about 10 minutes for each group to finish. You were assigned a group letter when you purchased your tickets, based on when the order it was received. If you are in the latter part of the alphabet, your group will not be called for at least an hour. We will post on Twitter and Facebook when we call a new group.
I missed my Group. What do I do?
You will have to join the next group that is called.