Studies show that children who are strong readers and have music in their lives score higher on tests. They do better academically and socially.  So, why not let them discover the magic of literacy and the arts instead!?

Santa Clarita’s 5th Literacy & Arts Festival will be held Saturday, December 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Newhall Park in Santa Clarita.  The day will include a multitude of stories, theatrical productions, songs, music and crafts that will bring the wonders of reading and the visual and performing arts to life.  The free family festival is presented by the SCV Education Foundation and the City of Santa Clarita.

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A community supported endeavor, the festival brings together numerous authors, artists and educators for one colorful, inviting, surprise-filled afternoon.  Teachers and students from the community’s elementary school districts, Hart High School District and College of the Canyons will be participating with a unique literacy or art activity.

Activities and performances are designed to demonstrate how literacy and the arts connect to children’s lives.  Some of this year’s attractions include stage entertainment offering stories brought to life; theater, dance, and music including a production of Charlie & Jack & the Chocolate Beanstalk; and a host of interactive activities including life sized Linker-Logs, a giant ice sculpture, and a Pop Up Town.  Authors, educators, and community leaders will read aloud inside story telling wonderlands showcasing books and hands-on craft activities will include story puppets, theatrical masks, and clay sculptures.  There will also be a books swap for kids from pre-school through 6^th grade.

Favorites from last year’s festival will be returning such as “Read a Painting”, a visual arts interpretative activity that asks the simple question “What do you see?” and gets kids (and parents, too) to begin looking at photos and paintings in a deeper way.  The answers reflect how personal thoughts and impressions come into play in an individual’s interpretations.  Other returning favorites are a gigantic jigsaw mosaic from the City of Santa Clarita and “What’s News?” – a journalism focused activity giving youngsters a press pass to write and report news of the Festival,

As a prelude to the festival, The Education Foundation and the City are sponsoring separate Art and Writing Contests in local schools.  Students are invited to illustrate or pen their visions of Santa Clarita’s future.  Winners in each of four grade divisions will be introduced at the festival and have their submissions featured in the event program.

For more information on Santa Clarita’s Literacy & Arts Festival or the SCV Education Foundation, please visit www.scveducationfoundation.org or contact info@scveducationfoundation.org or 661-414-4465.  You can also find information on facebook – Santa Clarita’s Literacy & Arts Festival.