PHX Reporter

Paradise Valley Community College is set to host its 16th annual Festival of Tales. This event, running since 2009, has successfully attracted over 30,000 attendees and distributed 60,000 free books to families in Maricopa County.

Scheduled for April 26, the festival will feature storytelling, live entertainment, book giveaways, arts and crafts, and interactive activities. PVCC students from the Education program, Fine Arts department, and campus clubs will participate as volunteers to engage children in reading.

"Festival of Tales is more than an event—it’s a celebration of community," stated Dr. Jana Schwartz, PVCC president. "By bringing families together through the joy of reading, we empower the next generation with the tools for success."

The festival is presented in collaboration with Southwest Human Development, which supports early childhood education, and is sponsored by Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger.

"Partnering with SWHD allows us to make a real impact," said Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s Education Program. "It’s incredible to see a child’s face light up when they pick out a new book or connect with a storyteller. That’s the heart of this festival—making literacy accessible, exciting, and fun for all families."

The festival will include live performances, arts and crafts, book-themed games, food trucks, and vendor booths.

Volunteers are invited to participate. For more information or to sign up, contact Meggin Kirk at meggin.kirk@paradisevalley.edu or 602-787-6659.

Further details and the event schedule can be found on the Festival of Tales website.