A new chapter is about to begin as the inaugural Sarnia BookFest launches this weekend.
Event Organizer Jessica Genovy said she has toyed with the idea of hosting a book-themed festival for years.
"It was always just a matter of figuring out the best way to bring it together," Genovy told Sarnia News Today. "After many years of thought, I figured it would be a good idea to make it a charity event, and I approached Bluewater Health Foundation."
There's no admission fee but a donation station will be set up at the front of DeGroot's Nurseries, where swag will be available.
The event on Saturday, September 19, will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A "blind date with a book" table (where a person doesn't know what book they're getting) will be set up where 100 per cent of proceeds will go to the hospital foundation.
"We also have some fun, free activities. We have a scavenger hunt for kids with prizes, we have a play area that's set up that was kindly donated by The Toy Corner, and it's going to have trains and playmats," she said. "We have a puzzle table; we're going to have a DIY make your own bookmark creation station where kids can create a bookmark to take home with them. We're also going to be doing face painting, and a bunch of other activities."
Over 25 vendors will be at the event, including The Book Keeper, authors, and artists. Genovy said vendors will be selling bookish merchandise such as book sleeves, bookmarks, and candles.
There will also be a story time for toddlers at 11 a.m.
A full list of vendors and schedule of the event can be found on Sarnia BookFest's website.
-With files from Stephanie Chaves
