EpicFest is an extraordinary, free literary festival that joyfully connects children, teens and families with books and the people who write them through activities that encourage a love of reading and learning. In its seventh year, EpicFest has become a wonderful family tradition. Nationally recognized children’s and young adult authors and illustrators will share their latest books, experiences and passion for libraries with kids of all ages.

 This year’s EpicFest features ten incredible authors who will be visiting Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools on Friday, November 8, 2024 and then promoting their newest books on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Eight children’s authors, including Grey Foley, Tracey West, JaNay Brown-Wood, Meera Sriram, Peter Raymundo, John Patrick Green, Kelly Starling Lyons, and Niña Mata will be at ImaginOn speaking about their experience as writers and signing books.

The EpicFest Family Festival will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at ImaginOn (300 E. Seventh Street).  The event will start at 10:00 a.m. and conclude at 3:00 p.m. It’s is a great time for young readers to engage with some of their favorite authors and hear about their writing inspiration, and for aspiring young writers to ask them questions about their writing process. Supplementary to a stellar author lineup on Saturday, there will be an abundance of hands-on activities for children of all ages. In addition to creative learning tables, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte will offer a special free performance of The True Story of the Three Little Pigs at noon. Other festive touches throughout the day include African Drum Circles presented by Drums4Life, book giveaways, roving costumed book characters, face painting and balloon twisting, and a visit from GameTruck Charlotte.

On Saturday, November 9, 2024,our EpicFest program just for teens will be at North County Regional Library from 12-2pm! Teens will have the opportunity to meet two award-winning YA authors, Jonny Garza Villa and Kim Johnson. Festivities include maker activities focused on book cover design and bookmark creation, along with writing stations! There will be a chance to contribute to an online publication as part of our Epic Teen Writing Showcase. Teens will have a truly epic experience through activities and giveaways!

For more information about this year’s featured guests, please click on the following link:  https://www.cmlibrary.org/epicfest