Exciting: Los Angeles Libros Festival Celebrates Bilingual Literature with Star-Studded Lineup

The Los Angeles Libros Festival, set to take place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, is an eagerly awaited event that promises to be a vibrant celebration of bilingual literature. This festival, hosted by the Los Angeles Public Library, will be held at the Central Library located at 630 W. 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90071. Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the festival is free and open to the public, offering a plethora of activities, storytimes, performances, author programs, and workshops, all at no cost.

A Day of Bilingual Fun and Learning

The Los Angeles Libros Festival is a bilingual event, with most programs incorporating both English and Spanish. This inclusivity ensures that everyone can enjoy the festivities, regardless of their primary language. Some programs will be exclusively in English or Spanish, but they are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all attendees.

The festival will feature a wide array of activities, including storytimes, performances, and workshops led by award-winning authors and artists. Notable participants include Grammy-winning musician Lucky Diaz, Emmy-winning preschool brand Canticos creator Susie Jaramillo, and acclaimed authors such as Reyna Grande, Alex Sanchez, Torrey Maldonado, Mirelle Ortega, Henry Barajas, and Leo Espinosa.

Engaging Activities for All Ages

The festival is designed to be a family-friendly event, welcoming attendees of all ages. Children and adults alike can look forward to engaging in art workshops, storytelling sessions, and performances. The festival will also include special activities like a word game workshop, artist-led drawing sessions, and writing workshops conducted by renowned authors such as Yesika Salgado and Tía Chucha’s Centro Cultural Bookstore.

In addition to the in-person events on September 28, the festival will also feature a Virtual School Day on Friday, September 27, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. This virtual event, aimed at children in grades K-5, will be broadcast on the Los Angeles Public Library’s YouTube channel and will include Spanish-language storytelling and performances by artists like Canticuénticos and César “Jarochelo” Castro.

Supporting the Literary Community

The Los Angeles Libros Festival is presented by the Los Angeles Public Library in partnership with LA librería, a Southern California bookstore specializing in Spanish-language children’s and young adult books, and REFORMA, the national association that promotes library and information services to Latinos and Spanish speakers. This collaboration underscores the festival’s commitment to promoting bilingual literacy and cultural exchange.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a selection of bilingual books curated by LA librería, featuring culturally relevant titles from Latin America, Spain, and the United States. The festival will also include book signings by many of the participating authors, allowing fans to get their books personalized.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to attend the Los Angeles Libros Festival, we recommend taking advantage of the many dining options available in Downtown Los Angeles around the Central Library. While the festival itself will not provide food, the surrounding area offers a diverse array of culinary delights to explore.

For occasional travelers, consider making a day of it by visiting other nearby attractions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall or The Broad museum. These cultural landmarks are within walking distance of the Central Library and offer a deeper dive into the rich artistic landscape of Los Angeles.

For expert travelers, we suggest exploring the hidden gems of Downtown Los Angeles. Take a stroll through the historic Grand Central Market or visit the Last Bookstore, a haven for book lovers. These lesser-known spots provide a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and history.

In conclusion, the Los Angeles Libros Festival is more than just a celebration of bilingual literature; it is a testament to the city’s commitment to cultural inclusivity and lifelong learning. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, this festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Los Angeles’ literary and cultural heritage. We hope to see you there, enjoying the stories, performances, and workshops that make this event truly special.