Event Overview

Join us for an enchanting evening celebrating the power of storytelling and family literacy! This special event brings together families from across Chicago for an interactive night of reading, activities, and community building. Professional storytellers, local authors, and education specialists will guide families through engaging literacy activities designed for all ages.

Event Information

  • Date: Saturday, February 15, 2026
  • Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM CST
  • Location: Root’ED Community Center
    1234 Education Boulevard
    Chicago, IL 60601
  • Capacity: 150 participants (families)
  • Cost: FREE (Registration required)
  • Parking: Free parking available on-site
  • Food: Complimentary dinner provided for all families

Program Schedule

5:00 – 5:30 PM Registration & Welcome Dinner
5:30 – 6:15 PM Featured Storyteller: Marcus Johnson presents “Tales from Around the World”
6:15 – 7:00 PM Breakout Sessions by Age Group:

  • Ages 3-6: Picture Book Creation Station
  • Ages 7-10: Comic Book Workshop
  • Ages 11+: Young Authors Circle
  • Parents: “Supporting Reading at Home” Workshop
7:00 – 7:30 PM Family Reading Circles & Book Exchange
7:30 – 8:00 PM Book Giveaway & Closing Celebration

What to Expect

  • ✨ Professional storytelling performances
  • 📚 Free books for every child (3 books per child)
  • 🎨 Hands-on literacy activities and crafts
  • 🍕 Free dinner for all attendees
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Age-appropriate activities for the whole family
  • 📖 Take-home literacy resources and activity guides
  • 🎁 Raffle prizes, including tablet computers and bookstore gift cards

Special Features

Author Meet & Greet: Local children’s author Sarah Martinez will be signing copies of her latest book, “Dreams Take Flight.”

Reading Nook Photo Booth: Professional photographer on-site for family literacy portraits

Community Library Card Sign-up: Chicago Public Library representatives will be on-site to register families for library cards

Health & Safety

  • Hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the venue
  • The facility is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities
  • Quiet sensory space available for children who need breaks
  • Nursing room available for parents with infants

Registration Information

Space is limited! Please register your family by February 10, 2025.

To Register:

  • Online: www.wearerootededu.com/events/family-literacy-night
  • Phone: (872) 237-2094
  • Email: wearerootededu@gmail.com

Contact for Questions

Maria Rodriguez, Family Programs Coordinator
Email: maria@wearerootededu.com
Phone: (872) 237-2094


  • Date : September 30, 2025
  • Time : 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm (America/Chicago)
  • Venue : Root'ED Community Center 1234 Education Boulevard Chicago, IL 60601

Organizers