We’re so excited that Read Across America Day is just around the corner. If you love books, then it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate the magic of storytelling! And no, you don't have to be or have a kid to celebrate!

Whether you’re revisiting childhood favorites or discovering new literary gems, this day is all about unlocking new worlds through reading. And the best part? You don’t need a classroom to join in the fun—just a love for books and a little creativity. 

It’s time to celebrate, so gather your bookish crew, brew a cup of something cozy, and get ready to celebrate reading in the most delightful ways! 📚✨

1. Throw a Literary-Themed Book Club Night

A book club is always a good idea, but a themed book club night? Now that’s next-level fun! Gather your book-loving friends and make Read Across America Day a night to remember with great stories, delicious food, and even an author cameo (virtually, of course—unless you have some serious connections!).

How to make it epic:

• Pick Inclusive Stories: Since this year’s theme is Unlocking Worlds Through Literacy, choose books that broaden perspectives. American Wings (about Chicago’s Black Aviators) or The Crossover by Kwame Alexander (sports + poetry = a winning combo) are great choices. Consider adding books by diverse authors that open doors to new cultures and experiences.

• Snacks & Vibes: Match your menu to the book. Reading The Alchemist? Serve Moroccan mint tea. Getting together to discuss Rececca Carvalho's Salt and Sugar? We’re thinking Pão de Queijo and Brigadieros. Up the atmosphere with candles, themed décor, and soft background music.

• Author Chats: Want to impress your guests? Reach out to an author for a virtual Q&A. If that’s a stretch, there are many pre-recorded author interviews available online. Alternately, tune into NEA’s virtual read-alouds for inspiration. Another great option is to watch an interview with the author on YouTube or listen to a podcast featuring their insights.

2. Plan a “Bookish Adventure” Scavenger Hunt

Books and adventure? Yes, please! A scavenger hunt adds a touch of excitement to your literary celebration. Perfect for those who love puzzles and stories. Whether you’re exploring a bookstore, a library, or even your own neighborhood, you’ll get to combine the thrill of discovery with the joy of literature.

How to play:

• Bookstore or Library Hunt: Challenge yourself and friends to find books based on fun prompts like “A book with a blue cover,” “A book with a female protagonist,” or “A banned book.” Bonus: See if your local bookstore will partner with you to offer small prizes for those who complete the challenge.

• StoryWalk® Magic: Organize a self-guided tour featuring bookish landmarks, literary murals, or historical sites tied to famous authors. For an extra twist, pair each stop with a short reading related to the location’s theme.

• Neighborhood Literary Quest: Turn your city or town into a literary playground by hiding book-themed clues in key locations. Participants can solve riddles to discover the next stop, leading them to a hidden literary gem!

3. Host a Cozy Reading Marathon

Remember those blissful childhood days of reading uninterrupted for hours? It’s time to bring that back—this time with extra blankets and a fully stocked snack station. If you’re looking for reading marathon tips, this one’s for you!

How to cozy up:

• Themed Read-a-Thon: Pick a theme—mystery, romance, or nostalgic Dr. Seuss favorites. Set the mood with fabulous music, warm lighting, and comfy seating. Create a reading nook with pillows and throws to enhance the cozy factor.

• Give Back: Want to make your reading time extra meaningful? Pledge a donation to literacy organizations like We Need Diverse Books for every hour you spend reading. Encourage friends to join in and make it a friendly competition.

• Bonus: Invite a few friends for a silent reading party. You all read together, but in comfortable silence—trust me, it’s oddly satisfying! Set up a reading check-in where everyone shares their thoughts on the book at the end of the session.

• Virtual Read-a-Thon: Can’t meet in person? No worries! Host a digital version where participants check in via video call or social media posts, sharing their reading progress and favorite passages along the way.

4. Start a Community Book Swap or Donation Drive

Do you have books collecting dust? Give them a second life by swapping or donating them. Nothing spreads bookish joy quite like sharing a good read with someone who needs it. Books are one of the few gifts that can keep on giving. They inspire, educate, and in some cases even transform our lives!

How to spread the love:

• Adult Book Swap: Host a “bring one, take one” event at a cozy café or park. Make it fun by assigning genres—maybe this month is all about memoirs or historical fiction. Add a “blind date with a book” twist by wrapping books and writing a short teaser on the cover.

• Donate Books: Partner with local shelters, libraries, or school PTAs to get books into the hands of those who need them. It’s a small act with a big impact, and it embodies the inclusivity of Read Across America.

• Mini Library Project: If you have space in your neighborhood, set up a little free library where people can take a book and leave a book. Decorate it with a literary theme and share the idea on social media to inspire others to do the same.

5. Try Creative Book-Inspired Hobbies

Books don’t just live on pages—they inspire creativity in so many ways! Use Read Across America Day as a chance to step outside your comfort zone and turn your favorite books into hands-on projects.

Whether it’s crafting, cooking, or storytelling, channeling that inspiration into a creative project is a wonderful way to honor the stories that move us. This Read Across America Day, let your imagination run wild with book-inspired hobbies that bring literature to life in unexpected ways.

Get crafty:

• Bookish Art: Paint scenes inspired by your favorite reads, create a book journal from an old novel, or even try crafting your own Truffula Trees (Seuss would be proud!). If you love digital art, design book-inspired prints and share them online.

• Tell Your Story: Ever wanted to share your own narrative? Attend a local storytelling night or record a personal story to share with friends or a community group—NEA’s storytelling events are great inspiration. If you prefer writing, start a blog or short story series based on your favorite genres.

• DIY Literary Decor: Repurpose old books into décor—fold pages into intricate shapes, frame meaningful quotes, or make book-themed candles. It’s a Pinterest dream come true. If you enjoy home projects, try creating a reading nook inspired by your favorite fictional setting.

• Culinary Literary Adventures: Love food? Try recreating dishes from beloved books! Make beautiful cupcakes like those in Fake It Till You Bake It by Jamie Wesley, or try something new like potato samosas to eat with Under the Tamarind Tree by Nigar Alam.

Final Tip:

Whatever way you choose to celebrate, don’t forget to share your reading adventures with #ReadAcrossAmerica on social media. Tag your favorite bookstore or library—they’ll love seeing how you’re keeping the love of reading alive! And of course, treat yourself to a well-earned glass of wine (or an extra-large coffee) while you dive into your next great read.

Looking for more adult reading tips? Check out guides from NEA or WeAreTeachers. Read Across America Day isn’t just another day on the calendar—it’s one of the best bookish holidays of the year, so make the most of it! 🚀

Why not spoil yourself or a loved one with one of our exciting book subscription boxes! It’s the most exciting book box around. Imagine whimsical packaging, a newly released novel, and surprise gifts that bring the story to life the Once Upon a Book Club way!