I always love to talk about this wonderful event because it’s never too early to start cultivating a life-long passion for learning in our children. The annual Family Literacy Festival hosted by the Santa Clarita Public Library in partnership with the Friends of Santa Clarita Public Library, provides a fun and free occasion for the families of Santa Clarita to make discoveries and learn together. Taking place on Saturday, November 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the festival will be held at the Old Town Newhall Library at 24500 Main Street in Newhall.
Back again for the 10th year, students, teachers, artists, and education enthusiasts have teamed up to design interactive booths and stations that provide opportunities to learn and make memories with the whole family. Central to each activity is this year’s theme, “Explore Your World.” Each station will focus on science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM).
Several performances and activities will be taking place on the outdoor stage just outside the Old Town Newhall Library. Kicking off the festival at 10:30 a.m. will be a special welcome and story reading by Mayor Bob Kellar. At 10:50 a.m., another story will be read by Councilmember TimBen Boydston, followed by a performance from Canyon Theatre Guild. Annie Banannie the Balloon Storyteller will be taking the stage at noon and at 1 p.m., performances will conclude with a cultural dance from Santa Clarita Ballet Folklórico.
With exploration being the theme of the event, indoor and outdoor stations will offer lots of neat activities to inspire innovative thinking and family fun. Come participate in the coding lab, robot obstacle course and giant chess. Also enjoy stomp rockets, stitching crafts, a marble run and much more! Local authors will be there to read their books written for children.
Food trucks will be available for those who get hungry or thirsty after a fun-filled day of exploration.
Having experienced the Family Literacy Festival first-hand, I know how enjoyable this event can be, but I do believe this year’s theme will offer something special. Exploring our world is about taking a comprehensive glance at biology, the arts and culture and the mechanisms that make everything tick. Where else can you enjoy a day of free fun and learning like this?
Go on an adventure with your children and “Explore Your World” at the Family Literacy Festival. For a complete schedule of activities, visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com or call 661-259-0750. I will see you there!!
Marsha McLean is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at: [email protected].