Excellence in independent publishing will be celebrated Saturday at the 35th annual Midwest Book Awards gala at Frey Theater, St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave., St. Paul. The awards, presented by Midwest Independent Publishers Association, recognize creativity in content and execution, overall book quality and the book’s unique contribution to its subject area.

Winners from MIPA’s 12-state Midwest region will be honored in 32 categories during a program hosted by Kansas City media personality Cherayla Haynes that will include a tribute to MIPA founder Sybil Smith, who died in 2024. A 6 p.m. reception will allow guests to network and peruse displays of this year’s finalist books, followed by 7 p.m. announcements of the Gold winners. Tickets are $56.25 to $75. Advance registration is required. Go to mipa.org.

— Mary Ann Grossmann