A Bookish Bash: Little Shop of Stories Children’s Book Festival Returns to Decatur

Get ready, book lovers! The Little Shop of Stories Children’s Book Festival is making its grand return to Decatur Square from May 2-4, 2025—and this year, it’s bringing even more magic, mischief, and memorable stories.

If you’re a fan of children’s books, middle-grade adventures, graphic novels, or young adult fiction, this festival is your dream come true. And for the first time, it’s joining forces with the Decatur Arts Festival, creating the ultimate weekend for bookworms and art lovers alike.

A Festival Where Books Meet Art

Diane Capriola, co-owner of Little Shop of Stories, couldn’t be more excited about the festival’s new home alongside the Decatur Arts Festival.

“We believe that children’s books are works of art, so what better way to celebrate them than by sharing space with an arts festival?” she said.

Expect to see beloved authors, rising literary stars, graphic novelists, and illustrators bringing their stories to life. But this festival isn’t just about listening to authors talk—it’s about jumping into the stories.

What’s Happening at the Festival?

📚 Friday Keynote (May 2, evening TBD) – A special event to kick things off! Details to come, but trust us, you won’t want to miss it.

🎭 Saturday & Sunday Parades – Because what’s a festival without a little flair? Expect costumes, characters, and plenty of page-turning excitement.

🏫 Author Visits to Local Schools – Bringing the magic of storytelling straight to students.

📖 Meet the Creators – From bestselling YA authors to award-winning illustrators, this lineup will have something for every reader.

A Little Shop with a Big Impact

Since opening in 2005, Little Shop of Stories has become a nationally recognized bookstore known for its cozy charm, engaging events, and deep community roots. The shop has played a huge role in shaping Decatur’s literary scene, helping grow children’s and YA programming for the Decatur Book Festival.

With this year’s festival taking place outdoors on Decatur Square, it’s set to bring even more bookish fun to the heart of the city.

Plan Your Visit

📅 Festival Dates & Hours:

• Friday, May 2 – Evening keynote (exact time TBD)
• Saturday, May 3 – 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday, May 4 – 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

🎟️ Admission: Main stage events are free! Some specific activities may require a small fee.