Historic Blakeley State Park’s annual Alabama Author’s Day returns March 16, celebrating the work of writers who explore the state’s history, culture and natural heritage.

Held in partnership with Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, the event highlights Gulf Coast authors and scholars who delve into regional archaeology, the Civil War, Creek Indian history and Alabama’s diverse ecosystems.

The free event, sponsored by the Alabama Humanities Alliance, features a lineup of accomplished authors, including archaeologists Gregory Waselkov and Philip Carr, University of South Alabama history professor Henry McKiven, Auburn professor emeritus Kathryn Braund, University of West Alabama scholar Christopher Haveman and naturalist Scot Duncan. Authors will discuss their recent works on Mobile Bay historic sites, the Creek War, the Civil War and the biodiversity of Southern rivers.

Lectures and book signings begin at noon in Delta Hall at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, 30945 Five Rivers Blvd. Attendees can also explore the Apalachee Exhibit Hall, which will be open throughout the day with taxidermy displays, live animals and local artwork. Pat Sledge Catering will provide food from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

As part of the festivities, the park’s Delta Explorer cruise boat will offer excursions into the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. A 90-minute “Civil War on the Eastern Shore” cruise departs at 10 a.m., followed by three one-hour afternoon tours highlighting the Delta’s history and natural beauty.

For a full schedule or to purchase cruise tickets, visit www.blakeleypark.com/events.