In May 2004, as part of the Williams Lake Rotarians legacy project, the idea of Family Fest was born. Its goal was to provide families with a low cost/no cost literacy related event in the last days of winter.
In addition to supplying the free books, Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy (CCPL) has co-ordinated the event for the last seven years.
Family Fest has grown into a much loved, free, annual community event that is enjoyed by hundreds of visitors each year.
It helps raise awareness about the importance of literacy and early childhood development and is made possible by the long term support and sponsorship from Success by 6, Children First, School District 27 and the Early Childhood Development Network.
Family Fest encourages literacy as a family activity.
It helps parents understand their role through demonstrations and play based learning.
The event is also aimed at helping parents recognize and become actively involved in early literacy related events in their child’s development.
Every child receives at least one new book to take home and each family receives a reusable Family Fest bag containing literacy related information and activities, so the fun can continue at home.
From puppet shows to remote control cars, face painting or reading a story with Sir Read A Lot (CCPL’s Moose Mascot), there is something for children of all ages to enjoy.
For the last nine years Family Fest has been the most fun thing to do in February, but with the First Annual Williams Lake Winter Carnival coming along, there could be some competition for the top spot. So to make it easier for families to enjoy both events, this year Family Fest is moving to the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Complex.
Family Fest is on Sunday, Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
More information on all our programs is available on our website www.caribooliteracy.com or join us on our Facebook page.
If you would like to volunteer, become a sponsor or take part in future events, please contact kirsten@caribooliteracy.com
Kirsten Stark is a Family Fest Coordinator with Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy.