Bring the kids for Bernie's Book Bank Storybook Festival

The Storybook Festival is a new, family-friendly event embracing the fun and magic of children's storybooks.

Children will enjoy a performance by nationally known story-performer Chris Fascione, a costume parade, greetings from book characters and distanced activity areas.

The outdoor festival is scheduled for Saturday, May 22, at Bernie's Book Bank in Lake Bluff.

All proceeds from the event benefit 501(c) 3 nonprofit Bernie's Book Bank. Their mission is to increase book ownership among underserved children throughout Chicagoland by distributing free, quality books.

The event adheres to all COVID-19 safety requirements and is divided into two identical sessions. The first is from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and the second is from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Attendees over the age of 2 are required to wear masks.

"Children and families are a vital part of our volunteer base at Bernie's Book Bank. Unfortunately, during the ongoing pandemic we have not been able to host volunteer sessions," said Darrin Utynek, CEO at Bernie's Book Bank.

"The outdoor Storybook Festival is an excellent opportunity for these families in our community to support our mission in a safe and enjoyable way."

In addition to the scheduled performances and activity areas, children can listen to the adventure of Zippy the Zebra during storytime, presented by Therese Van Ryne, author of "Zippy's Special Gift."

Storybook Festival is sponsored by a variety of corporations who support Bernie's Book Bank and their fight to end the literacy crisis. Sponsors include CDW, William Blair, Zebra Technologies, ITW and Rosborough Partners.

Tickets for Storybook Festival are on sale now for $10 each; free for kids ages 2 and younger. All children will receive a gift bag.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.berniesbookbank.org.