Book lovers, storytellers and literary adventurers are getting ready to embark on a weekend of words, wonder and whimsey in Winnsboro for the 7th Annual Festival of Books on May 2 and 3. Hosted by Winnsboro Center for the Arts (WCA), this free event allows guests to meet and chat with authors from all over Texas and enjoy a variety of literary activities for all ages. The event takes place in the Bowery Pedestrian Park in downtown Winnsboro where guests enjoy meandering through the charming shops and eateries that provide the backdrop for the book festival.
Event emcee Michael Guinn, an East Texas native, is a gifted speaker, two-time National Poetry Slam finalist, a five-time Austin Poetry Slam winner, six-time Fort Worth Poetry Slam winner, winner at the Toronto Poetry Slam and the author of two published collections of poetry. He is also a mental health advocate, working to build safe and supportive platforms for artists and audiences everywhere.
This year’s focus is on how writing and sharing one’s story benefits mental health. Activities from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday include a Meet & Greet with the festival’s celebrated Texas authors; engaging conversations on the art of storytelling and its role in emotional well being; and a performance by East Texas poet, author, and actor Michael Guinn and Friends. Guinn is a two-time National Poetry Slam finalist, five-time Austin Poetry Slam winner, six-time Fort Worth Poetry Slam winner, author of two published poetry collections and mental health advocate.
Saturday activities are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guinn returns to emcee the festival which will include recitations by the Fort Worth Poetry Societyand author book readings. A marketplace gives visitors an opportunity buy signed by Texas authors. Storybook Fun for Kids is for all ages with interactive art and literacy activities, a puppet show that brings stories to life, and hugs and high-fives from Rainbow Fish, the beloved children’s book character who teaches the joy of sharing.
At 11 a.m. on the main stage, Percussion Things brings a high-energy performance combining interactive story-telling, family-friendly comedy and dynamic percussion instruments from around the world, made all the more fun by audience participation.
Percussion Things will bring an energy-packed performance combining interactive storytelling, family-friendly comedy and dynamic percussion instruments from around the world, made all the more fun by audience participation.
From 1 to 2 p.m., there’s an open mic session where guests can sign up on site for a time slot to tell stories or read poetry.
Winnsboro Center for the Arts plays a key role in bringing cultural programming, exhibitions and entertainment to Winnsboro and East Texas. WCA is supported in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts. Winnsboro’s Cultural Arts District is recognized by the Texas Commission on the Arts for its vibrant arts scene. Winnsboro is also recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as part of the Texas Main Street Program for its successful downtown revitalization.
For more information about the Festival of Books event, visit the website. To get overnight lodging, find a list of shops and eateries, and more things to do in Winnsboro, visit www.WinnsboroOnlineGuide.com.
For younger guests, the Winnsboro Festival of Books offers interactive activities that bring stories to life.
