Ahoy, young readers! The 2025 Book Bash is making waves at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Saturday, April 5, delivering a high-seas adventure packed with pirate-themed reading fun. Hosted by New Worlds Reading, this free event invites VPK–5th graders and their families to embark on a literacy-filled journey from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Prepare for an afternoon bursting with story read-alouds, interactive activities, giveaways, and plenty of take-home books to build young buccaneers’ home libraries.
But that’s not all! The Book Bash promises more than just books—kids can revel in face painting, balloon art, and an exciting meet-and-greet with Clifford the Big Red Dog. This event is designed to make reading fun while ensuring children have access to resources that nurture their literacy development.
A Mission to Ignite Young Minds
Behind the magic of this celebration stands New Worlds Reading, a statewide program led by the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. This initiative provides free books and educational resources to over 71,000 students in Hillsborough County alone. With nearly one million Florida students in need of reading support, this program ensures each enrolled child receives nine free books per year—delivered in personalized packages filled with engaging reading activities.
To foster inclusive literacy, books are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille. This means every child, regardless of their background, can dive into a world of imagination and knowledge.
A Summer of Stories Awaits
With summer break fast approaching, it’s the perfect time for families to get involved! Children who enroll by June 9, 2025, will not only receive their nine free books for the school year but also three bonus books to keep their reading momentum strong throughout the summer.
Since its inception, New Worlds Reading has distributed over 8.8 million books to Florida children. “New Worlds Reading wants to do more than give books to students—we want to create experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning,” shared Robin Gregory, Interim Assistant Director at the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. The annual Book Bash is one of the most exciting ways to bring families together, helping kids discover the joy of reading while reinforcing the importance of literacy.
Your Invitation to a Reading Adventure
The Book Bash will take place at Raymond James Stadium, located at 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa. Families can enjoy free parking on-site, making it easy to join in the fun. Don’t miss this chance to set sail on a literary adventure, spark your child’s love of books, and create lasting memories!
For more details and to reserve your spot, visit the official New Worlds Reading website. Let’s turn the page to a future filled with endless imagination and reading excitement!
Imagine a world where your child’s love for books grows stronger with every turn of the page—set sail for adventure at Tampa’s pirate-themed Book Bash and make it happen!
Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.