It’s so exciting!
The 25th Annual Saskatchewan Festival of Words is less than two weeks away taking place on July 15-18. For the past 25 years, this event held in Moose Jaw over the years continues to be one of the premiere events of the season with renowned authors from across the country sharing their stories. Although last year, the event went digital due to the pandemic, this year the Festival of Words has incorporated both online streaming and some in-person events. If you haven't had the chance to register for these events yet, you can still sign up for both the festival events and the workshops on the festival’s website: www.festivalofwords.com. For those who register, festival passes are available, offering access to all of the features on the festival website.
In an earlier release, organizer Amanda Farnel said that although there is no set cost to attend, a suggested full pass is approximately $50, much less than previous years. There may be exceptions for workshops which must be purchased separately. She said they do not want to prohibit individuals from attending if they are unable to have the funds, but are allowing them to pay whatever they can afford.
A website has been launched for those with a festival pass and access to three pre-recorded videos that many might find interesting.
The live events include a story time in Crescent Park (Tues, July 13 – 10:30 am); Sask Book Awards Reading Session (Fri, July 16 – 5:00 pm) and Local Artists Panel (Sunday, July 18 – 1:00 pm). You can still sign up for these on the website, where there is more information available.
The Moose Jaw Express has always been pleased to be involved as a supporter of this literary festival, as well as annually sponsoring the final morning Breakfast session that has always proven to be entertaining and delicious. Hopefully next year, events including meals will again be on the listing.
The Saskatchewan Festival of Words continues to be one of the best curated events of its kind and revered by authors all over the country. The author’s personal stories that are told, the readings, as well as rubbing shoulders with those of like-kind have kept the momentum going over the years.
Congratulations to Executive Director Sarah Simison, Operations Manager Amanda Farnel and the whole team of organizers who have continued tirelessly over the years to put on this annual first-rate event, this being its 25th Anniversary event. Every year seems to have its own charm with new authors, guests and fresh ideas.
On another happy note, congratulations to Sarah Simison and her husband Chad Humphreys for their son Huxton, after nine years on an adoption list, a match was made earlier this year. I’m sure Sarah’s reading list will personally now include a plethora of great reading options for children.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
