The Charlottesville edition of the WVPT Kids’ Book Festival drew close to 5,000 people on Saturday September 26th, and a great time was had by all that attended. This year, the festival (in coordination with The University of Virginia) was held at UVA’s University Hall, marking the first time the event was ever held indoors.  The WVPT Kids’ Book Festival is a free family event designed to inspire kids to discover the joy of reading. All children ten and under received a free book that they were able to take home and enjoy with their family. The WVPT Kids’ Book Festival also featured exciting children’s games and activities, free snacks, and entertainment that appealed to all ages. PBS KIDS host “Miss Rosa” was the special guest for this year’s event and she entertained and spoke to kids about the importance of reading.  

Children were also greeted by numerous characters from their favorite PBS shows. Among them; Cubby, The WVPT Bear, Clifford, The Big Red Dog, and Sesame Street’s own Elmo. It was clear though, that the resounding message of the day was all about getting kids to read. “This is what it’s all about for us” said John Neumann, Director of Education Services at WVPT. “Seeing the looks of joy on the children’s faces as they pick out their free book, makes this event all worthwhile.”  The WVPT Kids’ Book Festival has won the award for “Best Community Outreach Event” for the past three years from The Virginia Association of Broadcasters.  This event is another reason why WVPT Is Your Source for PBS and More!