Sydney Writers’ Festival is launching its very first Family Day, and it’s set to bring stories, creativity and imagination to life at the State Library of New South Wales on Sunday 23 November 2025. This brand-new initiative is part of the Festival’s expanded year-round program, supported through a partnership with the State Library and funding from the NSW Government.
Designed especially for young readers and budding creators, Family Day offers a relaxed program filled with free sessions and affordable hands-on workshops. Kids can read, write, draw, sing, imagine and create, guided by some of Australia’s most beloved children’s authors, illustrators and storytellers.
Expect a fun, low-pressure atmosphere where families can explore books and creativity without worrying about library-level quiet. Whether you’re raising a future novelist, a doodler, a daydreamer or just a kid who loves a great story, it’s a wonderful reason to spend a Sunday in one of Sydney’s most beautiful cultural spaces.
When: Sunday 23 November 2025
Where: State Library of New South Wales
Who: Families, young readers, creative kids & book lovers
Cost: Mix of free events + low-cost workshops
FAMILY DAY EVENTS
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Storytime Spectacular – Sunday 23 November 2025, 10.15–11.15am. Free, registration required. Recommended for ages 4+.
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Writing Workshop with Deb Fitzpatrick – Sunday 23 November 2025, 11.00am–12.00pm. Child tickets $10. Recommended for ages 9+.
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Storytime with Nagi Maehashi, Adam Simpson & Dozer
Sunday 23 November 2025, 12.00–12.30pm. Free, registration required. Recommended for ages 3+. -
Graphic Novel Workshop with Andrew Cranna – Sunday 23 November 2025, 12.30–1.30pm. Child tickets $10. Recommended for ages 7+.
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Real Pigeons Bin Baddies – Sunday 23 November 2025, 1.30–2.15pm. Free, registration required. Recommended for ages 5+.
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Pop-Up Book Workshop with Freda Chiu – Sunday 23 November 2025, 2.15–3.15pm. Child tickets $10. Recommended for ages 7+.
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Seafaring with Amelia Mellor – Sunday 23 November 2025, 2.30–3.15pm. Free, registration required.
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The Totally Epic Kids Book Gameshow – Sunday 23 November 2025, 3.15–4.00pm. Free, registration required. Recommended for ages 6+.
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Craft Stations – Sunday 23 November 2025, 10.00am–4.00pm. Free, drop-in. Recommended for all ages.
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Russ the Story Bus – Sunday 23 November 2025, 10.00am–4.00pm. Free.
For full program details and updates, visit: www.swf.org.au
