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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!

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Image by Ismail Salad Osman Hajji dirir

November 14, 2026
11 am to 4 pm

Wendell Smith Elementary School
744 E. 103rd St., Chicago, IL  60628

Interactive literacy and art experiences

Vibrant storytelling led by beloved Black authors and illustrators

Story-inspired dance, live music, and drumming rooted in Indigenous and African traditions

Hands-on writing workshops and engaging installations

A diverse marketplace of book vendors and community organizations

ALL ARE WELCOME, BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY FOR:

Partner with Us!

This one-of-a-kind sponsorship opportunity will allow you to be a part of history! 

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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.

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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.

5 years of stories.
5 years of impact.
Help us celebrate by giving to the WOW Lit Fest today.

Your donation fuels literacy, uplifts voices, and creates unforgettable community experiences.

 

Give today and help us make the 5th WOW Lit Fest our biggest yet.

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Join us on mobile!

Download the “” app to easily stay updated on the go.

Scan QR code to join the app

Having Trouble Downloading the App?

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SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITES

5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival

​Below is the schedule of activities on the day of the

5th Annual Words of Wonder Literary Festival:

Catch all of the excitement, plan your day.

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Main Program Schedule

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Activity Areas

Use the area numbers to coordinate room assignments and participating partners.

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Unity Village

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Reading Chicago One Story at a Time

Chicago Public Library Reading Corner

 

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Around the Block

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The Hoop Lab

Project Swish Chicago: Open Runs and Basketball Drills


Location: Gymnasium (1st Floor)

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2026 Sponsors

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WOW Lit Fest 2025 Gallery

Media Features

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Connect with us on Instagram!

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What Attendees Had to Say About The Festival

This event is definitely a space to learn about the value of books and reading, various community resources and make great connections!!!

- Attendee

I was happy to attend the WOW Literary Festival because I know I just witnessed something special! I'm already looking forward to next year and I know it will grow exponentially because people will want to go and experience this for themselves, their families, and their organizations!

- Jessica Smith

The W.O.W. Literary Festival and its venue was steeped in Black excellence along with meaningful exchanges between literary organizations from across our city. Our Southside communities need these kind of events as staples in our community. Keep it up and see you next year!

- Jami Rhue

I absolutely loved everything about the event and so happy to be a part of it. I was amazed at the amount of resources, performers and services that were provided. I also love that this was on the south side with highlights from Black Excellence in every spectrum. Thank you for having us and would love to work together again in the future.

- Bria Jackson

This Literary Festival made books come alive for children. The excitement was palpable. Children and families had a lovely time meeting authors and other reading enthusiasts.

- Attendee

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