SCVNews.com | Opinion/Commentary: Bill Miranda | Family Literacy Festival in Candyland!

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2011 - John Ford's 1924 "The Iron Horse," filmed in SCV, added to Library of Congress' National Film Registry [story]

Bill Miranda | Family Literacy Festival in Candyland!

Bill Miranda | Friday, Nov 29, 2024

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“Books are a uniquely portable magic, much like candy that brightens our day and feeds our imagination.” – Stephen King

When my kids were young, one of their favorite games was Candyland. The sweet-themed adventure race that sparks imagination in children – allowing them to feel the joy of scaling a gumdrop mountain, or visualize getting stuck in the molasses swamp, all with the goal of reaching the spectacular Candy Castle first.

Well, that sense of nostalgia is alive and well as your family can now step into a magical world filled with giant lollipops, life-size gingerbread houses and candy cane lanes leading to beloved storybook characters at the Old Town Newhall Library Branch. This is the magic of our 17th annual Family Literacy Festival, a celebration that transforms our Library into a wonderland of imagination, and this year, it couldn’t be sweeter.

The theme for this year’s festival is “Sugar & Spice Reading is Nice,” and it will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The festival is designed to be a hub of creativity, featuring a variety of crafts, live music, engaging storytimes and a sprinkle of magic throughout the day, encouraging all participants to embark on a delicious literary adventure.

Watch this sweet paradise come alive, as guests walk among the life-size candy décor to discover all the festival has to offer. Little ones will get to interact with beloved characters like Pete the Cat, Esteban the Green Crayon and Elephant and Piggie, bringing smiles to kids of all ages. And who’s ready for some live music? Enjoy a musical performance by Mirimba and then create your own rhythm by taking part in an energetic drum circle.

The crafting options will be just as sweet at the theme. Imaginative little participants can use their artistic skills to create dessert sun catchers, candy magnets, felt candy lollipops and candy necklaces. Make sure to visit the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market, adding to the festive atmosphere with fresh treats and local goods!

One of the returning highlights is the Library’s exciting Wonder Wheels section. Attendees will have the unique chance to climb into the cab of a fire engine, explore the interior of a LA County Sheriff’s truck and get an up-close look at a Burrtec trash truck! This interactive experience is sure to delight young car enthusiasts and big truck fans alike.

This annual festival is a celebration of our community’s dedication to literacy and learning. I invite everyone to save the date for Saturday, Dec. 7 and join us for Sugar & Spice enchantment at the Santa Clarita Public Library’s 17th annual Family Literacy Festival. This event not only unites our community but also highlights the vital role of reading and education.

Together, we can inspire a love for reading that empowers each of us to explore new ideas and unlock our potential, creating a brighter future for all. We can’t wait to see you all there! For more information, please visit SantaClaritaLibrary.com or call (661) 259-0750.

Mayor Pro Tem Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at bmiranda@santaclarita.gov.

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Kathryn Barger | 2025 Year in Review

Saturday, Dec 27, 2025

At this time last year, we had no idea what changes and challenges 2025 would have in store. What I did know, and what this year reaffirmed, is that whatever 2025 brought our way, we’d get through it together.

Kathryn Barger | Keeping Up With Kathryn

Friday, Dec 19, 2025

There's no better way to celebrate the season than with toys, treats, and rollercoasters. My annual Foster Youth Holiday Party is one of the most special traditions we do each year

Select Keeping Up with Kathryn Barger | Home For the Holidays

Wednesday, Dec 10, 2025

I'm overjoyed to share that as of this week, several Altadena residents have moved back into their newly-rebuilt homes in time for the holidays.

Brittany Barlrog | Wrapping up 2025 for JCI

Wednesday, Dec 3, 2025

As we wrap up this incredible year with JCI Santa Clarita, my heart is truly overflowing with gratitude. This chapter has shown up in such wonderful ways, and I’m so proud of everything we’ve created together.

Ken Striplin | Happy Birthday, Santa Clarita

Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025

It’s hard to believe that our city will turn 38-years-old as of Monday, Dec. 15.

Bill Miranda | Honored to Serve

Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025

As we wrap up another year, I find myself reflecting on how extraordinary and eventful 2025 has been for our city.

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