Chattanooga, TN, July 30, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga is set to host the ‘Reading in the Park’ event featuring NYT bestselling author LaDarrion Williams. This free community celebration will include live music, storytelling, book giveaways, and a keynote talk by Williams at Coolidge Park. Families are encouraged to engage in various literacy-promoting activities while enjoying the community atmosphere. The historic carousel will also be available for free rides.
Chattanooga to Host ‘Reading in the Park’ Event Featuring NYT Bestselling Author LaDarrion Williams on July 31
Chattanooga, TN – On Thursday, July 31, RISE Chattanooga, in partnership with local organizations including the Chattanooga Public Library, ArtsBuild, and the City of Chattanooga, will host the Reading in the Park event from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Coolidge Park, specifically in the Walker Pavilion. This free celebration of books and culture aims to engage families and book enthusiasts of all ages.
Activities during the event will include live music, cultural storytelling, and free book giveaways, alongside literacy-promoting engagements designed to foster a love of reading within the community. Additionally, the historic Coolidge Park carousel will be available for children and families to ride at no cost throughout the event.
A key highlight of the day will be a keynote talk by acclaimed New York Times bestselling author LaDarrion Williams, known for his book Blood at the Root. Williams is scheduled to speak at 4:00 PM, followed by a meet-and-greet session where attendees can interact with him directly.
Shane Morrow, Executive Director of RISE Chattanooga, emphasized the importance of Williams’ story as a motivating example of creativity and determination, aiming to inspire the next generation of storytellers. The Reading in the Park initiative aligns with RISE Chattanooga’s Reading in Color program, which promotes access to diverse literature and celebrates Black and Brown voices in storytelling.
The first 50 attendees to register and arrive at the event will receive a complimentary book. Furthermore, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a moderated Q&A session with Williams, discussing his journey as a writer as well as various literary influences that shaped his work.
This engaging event is designed to encourage families to read together while participating in interactive literary activities. All community members are invited to join in this rich cultural experience.
For further information about the event and to register, attendees are encouraged to visit the registration link provided by the organizers.
Key Features of the Reading in the Park Event
- Date: Thursday, July 31
- Time: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
- Location: Coolidge Park, Walker Pavilion
- Keynote Speaker: LaDarrion Williams
- Activities: Live music, storytelling, book giveaways
- Free carousel rides: Available for children and families
- Complimentary books: For the first 50 registrants
- Q&A session: With LaDarrion Williams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Reading in the Park event about?
Reading in the Park is a celebration of books, culture, and community aimed at families and book lovers of all ages. It features various activities including a keynote talk, live music, and free book giveaways.
When and where will the event take place?
The event will occur on Thursday, July 31, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Coolidge Park in the Walker Pavilion.
Is there a cost to attend the Reading in the Park event?
No, the event is free to attend. Families and book lovers of all ages are welcome to participate in all activities.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Reading in the Park Brings Community
- Nooga Today: Chattanooga Becomes North America’s First National Park City
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Becomes First National Park City in North America
- Times Free Press: Weekend Parking Pass Launches for Downtown
- Chattanooga Pulse: Chattanooga Becomes the First National Park City in North America
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga events
- Google News: Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga reading events
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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