Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) is excited to announce the 15th year of its bi-annual Festival of Tales – a free, fun-filled community literacy event designed to engage families through storytelling and cultural activities. Partnering once again with Southwest Human Development, Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development, children and their families are invited to a full day of immersive storytelling, live entertainment, and cultural activities. Our sponsor for the event this year is Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger, which is committed to helping clients achieve their goals while staying actively involved in the local community.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7th, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in and around the Kranitz Student Center (KSC) at PVCC’s Union Hills campus, 18401 N 32nd Street, Phoenix, AZ. Parking is free.
“We believe in the transformative powers of literacy and storytelling to connect, inspire, and educate our surrounding communities,” said President Dr. Jana Schwartz, PVCC. “The Festival of Tales embodies our commitment to fostering a love for learning, cultural understanding, and creative expression in families and children.”
Why It Matters
Festival of Tales is an impactful event that strengthens the community by promoting literacy and cultural understanding. Since its inception in 2009, Festival of Tales has brought reading to life for more than 30,000 people from Maricopa County and has gifted over 60,000 books to children and their families. By giving away thousands of books and providing enriching activities, PVCC is investing in the future of its community, creating lifelong learners and readers.
Students from PVCC’s Education program and Fine Arts department, along with various social clubs, volunteer at the event by hosting interactive activities, becoming storytellers, and helping children discover the power of literacy in a fun, engaging way. The event has become a community favorite, recognized with two prestigious awards from the Maricopa County Community College District—the Diversity Advisory Council Award and the Paul M. Pair Innovation of the Year Award in 2019.
What to Expect at Festival of Tales:
- Interactive Storytelling Sessions
- Book Walk Games
- Arts & Crafts Tables
- Live Music
- Theater and Dance performances
- Food Trucks
- Free Books for Participating Children
- Demonstrations, Vendors, and More!
“Festival of Tales is one of my favorite events here at PVCC,” said Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s growing Education Program. “Not only does it help develop awareness and understanding for other cultures through storytelling, it often ignites a passion for learning.”
Community members near and far are invited to join in this signature event and celebrate literacy, culture, and community! Volunteers are also welcome to participate in making this a memorable event for everyone. For more information, contact meggin.kirk@paradisevalley.edu or call 602-787-6659. Check out a preview of past events here: Festival of Tales Video.