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Smiths Falls is turning the page on a new cultural tradition this fall with the launch of its first-ever Smiths Falls Literary Festival.
The two-day event runs September 19 and 20, bringing authors, readers, families and aspiring young writers together at venues throughout downtown.
The festival centers on storytelling, with author panels exploring everything from fiction, romance and mystery to young adult writing, fantasy and eco-literacy.
More than a dozen Ontario authors are scheduled to take part, including Lavanya Lakshmi, Heidi Reimer, Anuja Varghese, Ruby Barrett, Katie Tallo and Kate Heartfield. Environmentalist and author Diana Beresford-Kroeger is also among the featured guests.
There will have a chance for local youth to join the literary conversation through a writing contest organized with local public schools and the Smiths Falls Public Library. Selected entries will be published in a book.
The weekend will also feature a special performance by Outerbridge Magic, with proceeds supporting the Rideau Eco-Literacy Center and environmental education for local youth.
The festival is being organized with several local community and business partners. Tickets are now available, with organizers encouraging people to book early because space is limited.
