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 & Nashelle 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
Activation Stations:
3rd Annual Step Ahead Chess Tournament
12:30 PM
Creative Writing with Julian Randall
3:00 PM
Music Production
All Day
Art Exploration with alt_Chicago
All Day
Interactive Games with Lightly Salted Productions
All Day
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
Outdoors Schedule:
12 PM
Recess Field Day
3:15 PM
Jumping Juniors
2025 Sponsors
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WOW Lit Fest 2025 Gallery
What Attendees Had to Say About The Festival
