Step Into a World of Wonder at the
5th Annual Words of
Wonder Literary Festival!
Join us on the South Side of Chicago for a one-of-a-kind celebration where imagination runs wild and stories come to life!
The Words of Wonder Literary Festival is more than just a festival—it’s a joyful explosion of books, creativity, and culture for readers and writers of all ages. Whether you're a budding bookworm or a seasoned storyteller, there's something here for everyone!
Immerse yourself in:
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Interactive literacy and art experiences
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Vibrant storytelling led by beloved Black authors and illustrators
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Story-inspired dance, live music, and drumming rooted in Indigenous and African traditions
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Hands-on writing workshops and engaging installations
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A diverse marketplace of book vendors and community organizations
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Tasty snacks, healthy food, fun giveaways, and so much more!
Bring the whole family and get ready to read, write, dance, and dream!
Partner with Us!
This one-of-a-kind sponsorship opportunity will allow you to be a part of history!
The 5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival is more than an event, it’s a movement to celebrate and amplify the voices of young readers, writers, and storytellers on the South Side of Chicago. Each year, we bring together hundreds of families for a day filled with animated storytelling, live music, art, workshops, and community connection.
By becoming a sponsor, you’re investing in literacy, creativity, and community. Your support helps us provide free and enriching experiences, bring in diverse authors and artists, and create a space where stories come to life.
Schedule of Activities
Below is the schedule of activities on the day of the 5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival:
Indoor Schedule:
11:00 AM
Welcome
11:30 AM
Dance Performance: BF Creative Works
12:15 PM
Storytelling Performance: In the Spirit
1:15 PM
"Authors of Change: Mentoring the Next Generation" Panel
Moderator: Zion Ali
Panelists: Vondale Singleton, Dr. Darryca Brim Mims, Dominicca Washington, Kenneth Speller & Nachelle Pugh
2:00 PM
South Shore Drill Team
2:45 PM
Jesse White Tumblers
3:15 PM
"Chicago's Living Legacy: Preserving Our Stories" Panel
Moderator: Evan F. Moore
Panelists: Arionne Nettles, Ernest Crim III & Shermann "Dilla" Thomas
4:00 PM
Dear Chicago: Legacy of Love Honors
4:30 PM
"Love Letter From Chicago's Sons: The Finale" Concert
Outdoors Schedule:
12 PM
Recess Field Day
3:15 PM
Jumping Juniors
Unity Village Workshops:
Facilitator: Chicago Children's Theater
Session 1: 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Session 2: 1:45 pm – 2:15 pm
Session 3: 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Chicago Public Library's Reading Corner
In addition to sharing resources and giving away free books, throughout the day they will have guest readers read to the families at the festival.
Read Aloud Schedule:
12:00 pm
Chicago Public Library Staff
1:00 pm
Chris Brown, Chicago Public Library Commissioner
2:00 pm
CCBCALA (The Chicago Chapter of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association)
3:00 pm
Chicago Public Library Staff
2025 Sponsors
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WOW Lit Fest 2025 Gallery
What Attendees Had to Say About The Festival
