April brought International Children’s Book Day this weekend – April 2, to be exact. That’s Hans Christian Anderson’s birthday, and since 1967, reading enthusiasts have honored beloved children’s stories – like his “The Little Mermaid” and “Thumbelina” — across the world on this date.

But celebrations of good children’s literature actually occur throughout the year in various places around the country. These events typically include book vendors, storytelling, arts-and-crafts, food and entertainment; typically admission is free or for a nominal fee.

Consider popping in on these festivals with your children if your travels take you to these U.S. destinations this year:

April 6-8: Hattiesburg, Mississippi — Fay B. Kaigler Children’s Book Festival at Southern Miss campus

September 10: Princeton, NJ – Princeton Children’s Book Festival

October 2: Orange County, California  – Orange County Children’s Book Festival

November: Storrs, CT – Connecticut Children’s Book Fair on the University of Connecticut campus

November: Las Vegas, Nevada – Vegas Valley Children’s Book Festival

November 5: Rochester, New York – Rochester Children’s Book Festival

November 19: Savannah, Georgia — Savannah Children’s Book Festival

Homewood Suites has long been a supporter of spreading good children’s literature to as many kids as possible. The hotel brand has partnered with Books for Kids in Memphis, Tennessee and Washington, D.C. to create and furnish kid’s libraries in existing children’s centers, such as local Boys & Girls Clubs, Head Start facilities and child-care centers.  If you’re in the area, make sure to stop by! In addition, two forthcoming libraries that Homewood Suites supported are set to open this year.

The mission of Books for Kids is to promote literacy among all children with a special emphasis on low-income and at-risk preschool-aged children – a worthy cause, indeed!