The Charleston Library Society’s inaugural “UP, UP & READ!” Children’s Literary Festival takes flight August 5-7, 2025, at 164 King Street, Charleston, SC. This free, three-day celebration champions early childhood literacy and inclusivity through a packed schedule of storytimes, music, crafts, and engaging activities designed for families and young readers.
Festival Highlights & Schedule
- Tuesday, August 5: Storytimes with Katie Wray Schon (Painting Wonder), Price Sigal (Mary Goop and the Magic Words), and Clay Rice (At The Stroke of Goodnight). Plus, Clay Rice offers silhouette portraits (sign-ups required) from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Wednesday, August 6: Story sessions include Bucleigh Kernodle, Jonathan Miller, and a music class with Sabrina Moorman. The day closes with a dual reading by Rymer Strauss and Addie Clark, moderated by Roger Jones.
- Thursday, August 7: Authors Michael Moore and Sally Smith lead morning and afternoon storytimes, with a special guest TBA at 3:30 p.m. The festival wraps up with live music by Sabrina Moorman.
Throughout the festival, visitors can browse a curated book fair by Buxton Books, participate in crafts and activities with Kids Garden, enjoy refreshing lemonade and King of Pops popsicles, and experience an interactive art installation by Nancy Perry.
Plan Your Visit
The festival runs daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendance is free, making it an accessible family outing promoting literacy and community spirit. Due to occasional thunderstorms forecasted most days—especially in the mornings—attendees are encouraged to watch local updates and plan for some indoor activities.
Explore the full schedule and event details at charlestonlibrarysociety.org and get ready for a joyous, vibrant celebration of reading, imagination, and diversity in Charleston.
Source: 'Up, Up & Read' Children's Literary Festival will be three days of activities aimed a young readers