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Children’s Book Festival

The Children’s Book Festival aims to get children excited about reading and the arts with a FREE fun-filled weekend packed with acclaimed children’s authors and illustrators, along with a variety of activities and entertainment designed to inspire and delight children and families of all ages and backgrounds.

Celebrating its 16th year, the Children’s Book Festival offers children in PreK through 6th grade and their families a FREE, interactive literary adventure designed to spark a love of reading. The festival takes place the weekend of March 29 and 30, 2025, at the Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center, 411 Third Avenue, Johnstown. This engaging event encourages parents to share the joy of books with their little ones while providing families access to affordable new and used books to grow their own home libraries. Plus, every child who attends will receive a free book to take home and enjoy.

authors/illustrators/STORYTELLERS

  • Jarret J. Krosczka– JJK, as he’s been known since childhood, is the New York Times bestselling author/illustrator behind more than 40 books including his wildly popular Lunch Lady graphic novels, select volumes of Star Wars Jedi Academy series, and Hey, Kiddo – a National Book Award Finalist.
  • Karma Wilson – A New York Times bestselling children’s author, Karma is known for inspiring young readers with her picture books and sharing the basics of writing and rhyme. Some of her popular books include Bear Snores On, Hello Calico, and A Dog Named Doug.
  • John Patrick Green– John is the New York Times bestselling author of the smash hit book series the The full-color, laugh-out-loud graphic novels follow Mango and Brash, a super spy alligator duo that fight the forces of evil.
  • Pat Lewis – A Pittsburgh-based cartoonist and illustrator, Pat works alongside John as the genius behind the illustrations of the InvestiGATORS: Agents of S.U.I.T. book series, among other children’s, young adult, and adult novels. His artwork can also be seen in numerous issues of Highlights for Children. Pat’s live caricatures and unity illustrations are sure to be a festival favorite!

In addition to our headlining authors/illustrators, the New York City-based WonderSpark Puppets will take center stage, dedicated to spreading joy, igniting imaginations, and sharing laughter through their exceptional puppet performances. With a global reach, the company has toured internationally, bringing their captivating productions and puppetry workshops to festivals across the U.S. and Asia.

Bookmark contest

The 16th Annual Children’s Book Festival of Johnstown Bookmark Contest is sparking imaginations and bringing stories to life!

Students may enter as part of a classroom at school, or enter individually. The contest is open to all students in preschool through 6th grade and are judged in the following divisions:

  • Division #1: Grades Pre-K & K
  • Division #2: Grades 1 & 2
  • Division #3: Grades 3 & 4
  • Division #4: Grades 5 & 6

Bookmark designs should represent your favorite book!

Download the rules and entry form here: 2025 Bookmark Contest Rules and Entry Form.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Coming soon!

Sponsors

The Learning Lamp is seeking sponsors for 2025. Community support is critical to making this event accessible to children and families of all incomes. The festival also wouldn’t be possible without the help of volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact kmorrell@thelearninglamp.org or call 814-262-0732 x233.

Thank you to all of our 2025 sponsors!