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Discover all the best kids and family events at Sydney Writers' Festival 2026. From author meet-and-greets to hands-on writing workshops, here's everything parents need to plan an unforgettable literary adventure.

Sydney Writers' Festival is back for 2026, and this year's program is packed with events that'll have your kids falling in love with stories, books, and creativity. Whether you've got a toddler who loves storytime or a tween devouring chapter books, there's something magical waiting for your family.

Running from 17-24 May 2026 across multiple Sydney venues including Carriageworks, the State Library of NSW, and community libraries in Parramatta and Wentworth Point, this year's festival offers an incredible mix of free and ticketed events designed specifically for young readers and their families.

We've done the hard work of sorting through the program to bring you this complete guide - organised by age group so you can quickly find the perfect events for your kids.

Quick Facts for Parents

Dates: 17-24 May 2026

Main Venue: Carriageworks, Eveleigh

Other Venues: State Library of NSW, Parramatta Town Hall, City of Parramatta Library, Wentworth Point Community Centre

Family Day: Sunday 24 May at Carriageworks (most free events)

Ticket Prices: Many events are FREE; workshops typically $10

Booking: Book early for popular authors like Dav Pilkey

Events for Little Ones (Ages 0-5)

Got little ones who are just starting their reading journey? These storytime sessions and dance parties are perfect for preschoolers and their grown-ups.

Storytime Sessions

Storytime with Victor and Sandra Steffensen (Ages 4+) - A free storytelling session at Carriageworks that's perfect for introducing young children to First Nations stories and culture.

Storytime with Gabriel Evans - Join author and illustrator Gabriel Evans for a free storytelling session at the Sydney Writers' Festival Family Day.

Animals on Country Storytime - A beautiful storytelling session that connects children to nature, animals, and First Nations culture at the City of Parramatta Library.

Movement and Music

Kids' Dance Party - Get ready to boogie! Jacinta Daniher and Taylor Hampton lead this free dance party celebrating movement and culture.

Dance Party at the Library - A lively dance party at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library, combining fun movement with storytelling.

Events for Primary School Kids (Ages 6-12)

This is where Sydney Writers Festival really shines for families. From creative writing workshops to interactive author sessions, primary school kids have an incredible range of events to choose from.

Writing Workshops ($10 each)

These hands-on workshops are fantastic for kids who love creating their own stories. Limited spots, so book early!

Children's Writing Workshop with Kate Foster (Ages 6-12) - An interactive writing workshop led by author Kate Foster at the State Library of NSW.

Children's Writing Workshop with Clayton Zane Comber and Conor McCammon (Ages 6-12) - Two authors team up to guide kids through the creative writing process.

Children's Writing Workshop with Kristin Darell - Kristin Darell leads this creative writing journey at the State Library of NSW.

Interactive Author Events

Power Up with Dav Pilkey - This is the big one! If your kids love Dog Man or Captain Underpants, this interactive reading event with creator Dav Pilkey is unmissable.

Enter the Ella-verse - Meet the creators behind the beloved Ella-verse series at this special family event.

Choose Your Chaos! (Ages 6+) - An interactive storytime where YOUR children choose how the story unfolds!

Weird and Wonderful Animals - Illustrator Sami Bayly reveals the strangest creatures in nature at Carriageworks.

False Versus Facts - Dan Marshall helps kids discover the truth behind common myths.

The Story Thingy (Ages 5+) - An interactive storytelling session with Sue Whiting.

Art and Illustration

The Epic Illustrator Battle - Watch top illustrators compete live to be crowned champion!

Mick's Cartoon Portrait Countdown - Author and illustrator Mick Elliott draws cartoon portraits live.

Where's Wally? Activity Station - A free treasure hunt and creative colouring wall at Carriageworks.

Story Factory: Plant-a-Poem - Create a unique poem and plant native seeds at this lovely free event.

General Family Activities

Free Kids Activities - A whole day of creativity and storytelling with free drop-in activities at Carriageworks on Family Day (24 May).

Events for Tweens and Teens (Ages 9+)

Got older kids? Sydney Writers Festival hasn't forgotten them. These events are perfect for readers who've graduated from picture books.

For Tweens (Ages 9-12)

Riveting Reads for Tweens (Ages 9+) - Dive into thrilling stories with top authors at Carriageworks.

There's a Prawn in Parliament House (Ages 8+) - Annabel Crabb presents a funny and informative guide to Australia's democracy.

For Teens

On the Verge - YA authors Gary Lonesborough, Allayne L. Webster, and Scott Woodard explore coming-of-age themes.

Bankstown Poetry Slam ($10) - Experience Australia's largest ongoing poetry slam at Parramatta Town Hall.

How to Grow a Poem Workshop ($10) - An invaluable workshop for aspiring spoken-word poets.

Free vs Paid Events

Free Events (No Booking Required)

Most Family Day events on Sunday 24 May are free: all storytime sessions, Kids' Dance Party, Where's Wally? Activity Station, Free Kids Activities drop-in, The Epic Illustrator Battle, Mick's Cartoon Portrait Countdown, Story Factory: Plant-a-Poem, Weird and Wonderful Animals, Choose Your Chaos!, False Versus Facts, and The Story Thingy.

Ticketed Events ($10)

Workshops require booking: Children's Writing Workshops (Kate Foster, Kristin Darell, Clayton Zane Comber & Conor McCammon), Bankstown Poetry Slam, and How to Grow a Poem Workshop.

Events with Variable Pricing

Check the official SWF website for ticket prices: Power Up with Dav Pilkey (likely to sell out fast!), Enter the Ella-verse, Riveting Reads for Tweens, and On the Verge.

Planning Tips for Parents

When to Go

Saturday 17 May has writing workshops at the State Library - quieter and more intimate. Saturday 23 May features events at Parramatta and western Sydney locations. Sunday 24 May is Family Day at Carriageworks - the main event with most free activities.

What to Bring

A book for authors to sign (check if signings are available), snacks and water bottles, a small backpack for any books you buy, and cash and card for the book stalls.

Getting There

Carriageworks is near Redfern Station with street parking nearby. State Library is near St James and Martin Place stations. Parramatta Town Hall is at Parramatta Station with paid parking available.

Pram and Accessibility

Carriageworks and most venues are fully accessible. Prams are welcome at Family Day events, though some indoor sessions may be easier without them.

Complete 2026 Sydney Writers Festival Kids Program

Here's every kids and family event at a glance:

Make the Most of Sydney Writers Festival 2026

Sydney Writers Festival is one of the best free (and low-cost) family outings in May. With so many events designed specifically for kids, it's a brilliant way to spark a love of reading and creativity.

Our top tip? Pick 2-3 events that match your kids' interests, arrive early for popular sessions, and leave time to browse the book stalls. You might just discover your family's new favourite author.

Looking for more Sydney kids activities? Browse our full collection of Sydney family activities or explore what's happening across all of Australia.

This guide covers the Sydney Writers Festival 2026 kids and family program. For the complete festival lineup including adult events, visit the official Sydney Writers Festival website.

A Parents Guide to Sydney Writers' Festival 2026: 20+ Kid-Friendly Events You Need to Know