Fall is just around the corner, and all eyes turn to school activities, as well as trick-or-treating, apple picking, leaf-peeping and the like. There’s a host of awesome autumnal options, but have you considered a local book festival? Children and families are most welcome at these events that honor all things literary — books, authors, illustrators, publishers, libraries, bookstores and, of course, readers.

Every book festival is different, but often there are exhibitors, book signings, performers, panel discussions and a wide range of hands-on activities. There may also be contests, costumed characters, food trucks and photo opportunities. Book festivals are always fun, usually free and all in one place. Check the event websites for more specifics and get ready to celebrate reading at these and other events.

Latin American Book Fair 

When: Saturday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 300 S. Broad St., in the Commonwealth Plaza, Philadelphia, PA

Online:  latinbookfair.com

Started as a grassroots effort, the Latin American Book Fair (LABF) has blossomed over time. Now in its eighth year, the festival is a significant cultural event and unique space for Latin American literature of all kinds. Ana Omana, co-founder of the LABF, proudly states that “visitors will have the opportunity to meet authors, discover books in Spanish and English and participate in conversations and presentations throughout the day.” Everyone at LABF is especially enthusiastic about the dedicated programming for children and families, including storytelling, live music and family-oriented arts.

Mercer County Library System Second Annual Book Festival

 When: Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: The Lawrence Headquarters Branch of the Mercer County Library

Online: mcl.org/events/book-festival/

Just a year old, this Festival is already known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. According to Sharon Galbraith Ryer, Branch Manager at the Mercer County Library System, all participating children’s authors have the opportunity to display and read aloud from their books. Perhaps best of all, they can talk directly with their fans. Ryer also spotlighted the Festival’s family-friendly craft programs and musical performances. This event is a new and exciting celebration of (often local) creativity and a wonderful way for the library to engage with the community.

 Collingswood Book Festival

 When: Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ

Online: collingswoodbookfestival.com

Spanning more than six blocks and more than 130 exhibitors, Collingswood hosts a book festival with something for everyone. Sharon Hackett, chairperson of this all-volunteer event, highlighted the 20+ children’s and young adult authors in the Big Tent, ready to interact with their readers. This is in addition to Loompa Land, the children’s activity area. Hackett describes another venue at the festival that’s always “loud, wild and out of control.” It’s the Poetry Tent, definitely worth a visit. With partners like Inkwood Books, a terrific independent bookstore in Haddonfield, and the Collingswood Public Library, this event is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood party.

YOung People’s Book Festival of Greater Philadelphia (YO! Book Fest)

 When: Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Doors open at 9:30 a.m.)

Where: Black Rock Middle School in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Free, but please register online.

Online: yobookfest.com

YO! Book Fest is not just for young people; it’s run and advised by them. This new (second annual) but quickly growing literary event was born of a partnership between Children’s Book World, a beloved indie bookstore in Haverford, Pennsylvania, and Black Rock Middle School. Heather Hebert, festival co-chair, describes the event as “very interactive: There’s a draw-off for illustrators and a trivia contest with authors.” Families can expect more than 55 authors, each accompanied by a student ambassador. Last year, one young participant was overheard saying, “This is the best time I’ve ever had at school. And on a Saturday!”

Write your next chapter

Fall book festivals are fabulous, but there’s no need to stop there. Try a bookstore crawl (a trip to visit many local bookshops in one day or over a weekend), a school book fair, a silent book group (or one with plenty of discussion), an author talk, a poetry reading or even a literary or writing conference and enjoy reading-related outings all year long.

Sharon Hollander is a licensed psychologist and provides psychotherapy and bereavement counseling in New Jersey. She has written and presented on children’s literature. Michelle Hollander co-founded Career Carnival for Kids LLC (careercarnivalforkids.com) to spark career curiosity among elementary and middle school students.