Stars and Stories: Newark's Summer Kids Events Return

A Celebration of Literacy and Community in Newark

Newark is set to host its seventh annual “Reading Under the Stars” event, a beloved summer tradition that brings together families, children, and local authors for an evening filled with stories, books, and community spirit. The event will take place on Wednesday, August 6, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Ivy Hill Park, located at Mt. Vernon Place in the West Ward. This free public event aims to foster a love of reading and provide access to quality literature for all.

The initiative is co-hosted by several key city departments and organizations, including the Office of Comprehensive Community Education, the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery (OVPTR), and the Department of Recreation, Cultural Affairs, and Senior Services. These groups work together to ensure that the event not only entertains but also educates and empowers the community.

Mayor Ras J. Baraka emphasized the importance of reading in family life and childhood development. “This event is so popular every year because Newark parents instinctively know how reading and storytelling adds to the richness of their family life and to their children’s lifelong success,” he said. The mayor will personally read one of his favorite books during the evening, hoping to inspire young readers and bring families together for a memorable night.

A Night of Stories, Books, and Family Fun

The event features five acclaimed children’s book authors who will share their works with attendees. Aneesah Glanton Ross will read her book, Everyone’s Amazing and Special, while Regis and Kahran Bethencourt will present a special performance based on their book, Greatness. Mayor Baraka will read Together, United by Tami Charles, and after the readings, the authors will sign copies of their books for attendees.

In addition to the readings, there will be food, family activities, and a screening of the family movie Musafa: The Lion King. The event also includes opportunities for children to receive free books, thanks to partnerships with organizations such as Reading Is Fundamental, Source of Knowledge Bookstore, the Newark Public Library, and Scholastic, Inc.

The Newark Office of Sustainability will offer books and sustainability information, while the Newark Department of Health & Community Wellness will provide resources through its new Dental Mobile Unit, WIC services, and lead abatement information. Additional community partners, including the Newark Boys and Girls Club, UVSO, United Community Corporation, Reading Partners, and My Brother’s Keeper, will also contribute to the event.

Expanding Access to Literacy

The “Reading Under the Stars” event is part of the broader Newark Citywide Prenatal to Third Grade 10-Point Literacy Plan, launched in July 2023. This initiative aims to address child literacy from birth through third grade, with a focus on creating a strong foundation for lifelong learning. The plan includes actionable steps for schools, parents, and community organizations to support students and improve educational outcomes.

Dr. Sharnee Brown, Chief Education Officer for the Office of Comprehensive Community Education, highlighted the significance of the event. “Literacy is the foundation for literally anything and everything that one might do in this world,” she said. “Our ability to read well translates into our ability to think, write, speak, and communicate effectively.”

Tami Charles, a New York Times bestselling author, shared her personal connection to the event. “Growing up in Newark, books were my passport to possibility. Events like Reading Under the Stars remind us that a single story, shared aloud, can spark a lifetime of imagination, curiosity, and hope.”

Christian Zabriskie, Director of the Newark Public Library, expressed his appreciation for the event. “The Newark Public Library is a proud supporter of Reading Under the Stars. We appreciate and enjoy this event every year, it is such a joy to situate reading right in the heart of our community.”

A Community Effort

The Madan/Russo Organization, which owns and operates five McDonald’s locations in the Newark/North Jersey area, will serve 600 children’s happy meals at the event. This partnership underscores the collective effort to make the event accessible and enjoyable for all.

Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) will distribute free books to children, helping to build home libraries and encourage a love of reading. Through these efforts, the event continues to grow and thrive, offering a meaningful way for the community to come together and celebrate the power of literacy.