The Third Reading Festival: Sint Maarten Edition is officially underway, with activities taking place this week leading up to the two day festival onSeptember 25 and 26, 2026.
Stichting Biblionef Netherlands, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport, the Library of Sint Maarten, Help Our Children Foundation, and the University of St. Martin (USM), is once again bringing together students, educators, authors, families and community partners to celebrate the joy of reading and learning.
Now in its third year, the Reading Festival continues to grow, with this year’s program introducing new and interactive experiences alongside popular activities such as storytelling, author visits, creative workshops, educational games and book giveaways. Students will also have opportunities to explore technology and creativity through AI focused activities, while a Steel Pan Workshop facilitated by Dow’s Musical Foundation will bring music into the learning experience. Festival goers can also look forward to a special VR surprise designed to enhance the reading experience.
The event is made possible through the support of the Dutch Foundation for Literature and local sponsorship through Help Our Children Foundation.
Friday, September 25: School Program
The official festival program begins on Friday with activities geared toward Form 1 and Form 2 students at participating secondary schools and USM.
Students will take part in author visits, reading activities, workshops and educational games. Form 1 students will attend activities at USM, while Form 2 students will participate at their respective schools. Transportation will be provided for Form 1 students.
Saturday, September 26: Family Festival Day
On Saturday, the Reading Festival opens its doors to the entire community from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the University of St. Martin.
Primary school children, high school students, parents and teachers are invited to come out and experience a day that shows just how much fun learning can be.
The day will feature author readings, storytelling, interactive workshops, AI activities, educational games, the Steel Pan Workshop, the special VR surprise and much more.
Parents are asked to accompany children up to 12 years of age.
More Than 2,500 Books, Educational Materials and Prizes
More than 2,500 new books, educational materials and language games will be distributed to schools and children across Sint Maarten.
Participants will also have opportunities throughout the festival to win exciting prizeswhile taking part in the activities.
Following the festival, books and materials used during the event will be available through the Library of Sint Maarten, helping to extend the impact of the Reading Festival beyond the two day event.
The Reading Festival team encourages families, teachers and students to come out on Saturday and be part of the third edition.
Admission is free.
More Information
Email: info@biblionef.org
Website: ReadingFestivals.com
Facebook & Instagram: @readingfestivals
