ReadFest 2009

Finley Stadium

Saturday, April 25, 2009

10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Annual event features hourly read-alouds

ReadFest is the signature event for Read 20, a public-private partnership promoting literacy skills for early childhood. The goal of Read 20 is to create a community of readers, in support of Hamilton County’s community literacy goals.

ReadFest, a collaboration of multiple programs, agencies and schools, features read-alouds and related activities for children. Every hour, a dynamic guest-reader takes the giant stage to share a special selection of stories. The read-alouds are hosted by Read 20’s Stewart Payne, recognizable to many Hamilton County students from his appearances with the Read 20 Readmobile.

Chattanooga-area agencies, organizations and groups are needed to participate as early childhood readers hosting related activities. Contact Shula Yelliott at the Read 20 office (ShulaY@HamiltonTN.gov or 209-6190) with your idea for creating a read-aloud environment for children that encourages a love of reading and inspires the imagination.

Read 20 also needs high school and college students well-versed in acting out “roving nursery rhymes.” Up-and-coming actors can help maintain our history and heritage through the characterization of nursery rhymes; their performances have proven to be one of the most popular features of ReadFest. Children enjoy engaging with costumed students portraying favorites like “Jack and Jill,” the “Three Little Kittens,” the “Three Blind Mice,” “Old Mother Hubbard,” and “Mary, Mary Quite Contrary.”

Schools are encouraged to showcase the talent of their students at ReadFest. Read 20 will provide the stage and sound; students can provide the performance.
Be part of the community of readers!