The aim is to platform this year’s National Year of Reading Theme: ‘Go all in’ and create literacy rich events that encourage people to connect further with their passions through the medium of storytelling, reading and creating. The timeline and theme also align with ‘Share A Story Month.’

The Wow Parade for 3–5-year-olds – a collaborative story parade featuring all the things you love.

Children are invited to bring a favourite item with them to the event – e.g. a favourite toy (teddy, dinosaur, train, book?) or snack, or something related to their favourite time of day (Wellies for splashing in the rain, goggles for swimming etc).

The rest of the activity is centred either on their objects or ideas – children create bold placards inspired by their objects and are guided to create a simple story together using them. A conga line of the children with their placards is formed and a ‘Wow chant’ for them to say while walking as a parade formation in the gardens will emerge.

Children will also be able to access books linked to their favourite things and be able to take a book home to continue their journey.

Alongside the bell tent activities, there will be a gazebo for helping to steward families to the events and having books on show for reading and some to take home.