Wordfest and Calgary Public Library are thrilled to announce the 3rd Annual Reading in the Wild, Calgary’s only outdoor read-a-thon, taking place from 4 PM–7 PM on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, in the heart of the city at Central Memorial Park. 

This event is FREE. Please RSVP here so that we can send you updates. 

This all-ages community event invites everyone—from toddlers to seniors, and even well-behaved book-loving pups—to gather with fellow readers and enjoy the simple, shared joy of reading outside. Attendees can bring their own books or select something new from a specially curated collection provided by Calgary Public Library, which will also be on site to provide free library cards to whoever may not already have one. The 2025 event far surpassed expectations, doubling attendance and attracting hundreds of readers of all ages.

“Together with our founding partner, the Calgary Public Library, we are thrilled to offer Calgarians the opportunity to come together in a no-stress, radically inclusive experience that offers so much joy,“ says Wordfest CEO & Creative Ringleader, Shelley Youngblut. ”Last year, we watched the Reading in the Wild brand resonate globally—tapping into our longing for shared experiences that highlight community, open minds, and celebrate our connection to the OG social media app: books.” See all the buzz here. 

While readers are invited to bring blankets, chairs, picnics, and books to the party, organizers are providing a variety of activations and treats, including:

• Live music by Calgary-based string duo Solatido 
• Complimentary Village Ice Cream for the first 400 humans and a special dog-friendly “Pup Cup” for the first 25 furry friends
• Pop-up cafe from Barrow Coffee Roasters
• Zero-proof cocktails from WildFolk
• Special Reading in The Wild x Wordfest Swag
• Calgary Public Library Foundation pop-up store with book-themed merch

Be sure to tag @Wordfest with #ReadingInTheWild in your own photos and our social team will share far and wide.