Battle of the Constellations: A Celestial Fête!

 ✦ Host Publications has been awarded The Constellation Award and we’re celebrating with Battle of the Constellations: A Celestial Fête! The evening will pin all of the zodiac signs against each other in an inspired match-campaign set against the dreamy backdrop of our favorite writers, artists, and musicians! Come dressed in your most ethereal look!

The evening will feature readings by Deb Olin Unferth and Taisia Kitaiskaia; music by Wake Up, Spaceboy; tarot readings by Stephanie Yue Duhem’s Ask a Moon; live-printing by Eva Frederick’s Strawberry Milkweed; & food and drinks by Grandpa’s Glizzys and Puro Coffee Co.! At 9pm, we will be crowning “the best zodiac sign” determined by which zodiac raises the most funds!

“During this time of increased violence against the most vulnerable members of our communities and against those who insist on bearing witness, the role of independent publishers that champion the voices of people of color is vital. Their lively functioning—imperiled by the dismantling of federal funding and institutional attacks on diversity—is crucial to the maintenance of our vibrant literary landscape and our democratic chorus. Host Publications, has demonstrated an abiding support of queer and BIPOC writers for decades and offers inspiring and concrete visions for how to meet our current moment.” - Poet and CLMP Board Member Deborah Paredez

Can’t attend the event, but want to donate and champion your zodiac? Head over to givebutter.com/Constellation to join the fun!

✦ Host Publications is an award-winning, queer- and women-led independent publisher located in Austin, Texas. Devoted to our mission to elevate historically marginalized writers, Host Publications publishes radical poetry and fiction by emerging LGBTQ+, BIPOC, intersectional feminist, and immigrant voices.

✦ Free & open to all lovers of literature.

Featured Performers:

Deb Olin Unferth is the author of six books, including the novels Barn 8 and Vacation, the story collection Wait Till You See Me Dance, and the memoir Revolution, finalist for the National Book Critics’ Circle Award. Her next novel, Earth 7, is forthcoming in June, 2026. Her work appears in Harper’s, the Paris Review, Granta, and the New York Times Magazine.  A recipient of a Guggenheim fellowship and a professor at the University of Texas in Austin, she teaches for the Michener Center for Writers and the New Writers’ Project.

Taisia Kitaiskaia has authored four books, most recently The Nightgown and Other Poems. Her work has appeared in McSweeney’s, American Short Fiction, and Best American Short Stories 2024, among other publications. A recipient of fellowships from Yaddo and MacDowell, she has taught at the Michener Center for Writers.

Wake Up Spaceboy is an indie-emo band based in Austin, Texas and features members Michael Williams, Diego Glascock, Charlie Campillo & Alex DeRoehn!

Live-Printing with Strawberry Milkweed

Eva Frederick runs Austin printmaking business Strawberry Milkweed, creating linocut designs of real and mythological creatures and printing them on clothing and paper. She's inspired by folk art, nature, surrealism and creatures of all kinds!

Tarot Readings with Ask a Moon

“Ask a Moon” refers to the advising practice of Austin-based poet and occultist, Stephanie Yue Duhem. It is the name of her advice column, hosted on the Moon and Mouth substack, as well as her tarot and dream analysis offerings. Her poetry collection, Cataclysm Moves Me I Regret to Say, is available at Alienated Majesty. 

Event Photography with Carrdi

Carrdi is an Austin-based photographer and videographer with a love for candid moments. She captures the in-between, unposed magic—blending a cinematic feel with a laid-back, fun approach to storytelling.

Food by Grandpa’s Glizzys

Recently named Best Hotdog in Town by the Austin Hotdog Safari, Grandpa’s Glizzys is a local hotdog popup that vends at markets and events around Austin. Known for unique topping combinations and just an all around great dog, Grandpa’s Glizzys has become an Austin staple in the past three years. They will be serving regular and vegetarian hotdogs at the Battle of the Constellations on May 15th.

Drinks by Puro Coffee Co.

Meet Liz & Missa, the owners and operators of Puro Coffee Co. They started their business earlier this year with the goal of building community, and a passion for sharing their Mexican and Puerto Rican roots through their recipes. They have hit the ground running this year by partnering with amazing brands all over the Austin area, and engaging in community events to grow their following.

***********************Notes ************************

✦ is an award-winning, women-led independent publisher located in Austin, Texas. Devoted to our mission to elevate historically marginalized writers, Host Publications publishes radical poetry and fiction by emerging LGBTQ+, BIPOC, intersectional feminist, and immigrant voices.

✦ a 501(c)(3) literary arts organization. We curate free programming for all, but if you're ever inspired to donate to support our mission, head over to our Givebutter <3

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