In 2023, the Children & Authors Literary Fanfare & Events (CALFE) launched its first in-person festival under the enchanting theme Wonder Books and Magical Reads. Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, this milestone event embraced a hybrid model—offering both in-person and online programming to ensure broad accessibility and engagement.

The in-person celebration at the historic Chelmsford Museum, with support from museum staff and its volunteers, attracted a diverse audience of families, educators, and literature enthusiasts. Simultaneously, our online platform garnered nearly a thousand page views, a testament to the growing interest in ethnically diverse children’s literature and CALFE’s dynamic approach to cultural storytelling.

By combining physical and digital formats, CALFE not only expanded its geographical reach but also reinforced its commitment to inclusive, high-quality literary experiences. This successful blend of formats allowed us to connect meaningfully with audiences across the UK and beyond, setting a strong precedent for future events.

Photo Credits: @FilmbySarah