Children's Book Picnic and Parade

Saturday, August 8, 12:30pm-4:00pm

Open to the public

This free, family-focused program will engage children and families in an interactive and inclusive literary experience. The event will begin with art workshops at the Sunnyside Branch of the Ottawa Public Library, followed by a festive book parade to Lansdowne Park and a main program at the Horticultural Building.

Programming will feature reading carpets where recipients of the 2026 IBBY Honour List including Canadian and international authors, illustrators and other special guests will share the joy of reading with children through storytelling and reading aloud.

Throughout the afternoon, children will use their “reading passport” to visit centres to participate in storytelling games and other creative activities.

For Congress Delegates Only

After the picnic and parade, Congress delegates will relive some of the festivities of the day with early evening Honour List presentation and celebrations at the Horticulture Building, followed by the Once Upon a Saturday Evening barbecue and costume party.