One of Australia’s biggest literary festivals for young readers is throwing open its doors to the whole community, and you’re invited. Once Upon a Festival is celebrating its sixth year with a free Community Evening at Immanuel College on Thursday 29 October.
From 5pm to 8pm, the Senior School Lawn will transform into a festival playground packed with books, live music, entertainment and activities designed for the whole family. It’s a chance to connect with authors, discover new reads and soak up the creativity that makes this festival such a highlight on Adelaide’s calendar.
The main festival runs across 29 and 30 October, welcoming thousands of young people to workshops, talks and special events with some of Australia’s leading authors and illustrators. The Community Evening extends that experience beyond the school gates, giving families a taste of the literary magic.
Who you’ll meet
Media personality and Premier’s Reading Challenge Ambassador Rebecca Morse will host the evening. You’ll have the chance to meet festival presenters, browse the festival bookshop and get books signed by your favourite authors.
The 2026 line-up is packed with literary talent, including Matt Stanton, R.A. Spratt, Jack Heath, Nat Amoore, Felice Arena, Katrina Nannestad, Will Kostakis, Lili Wilkinson, Sean Williams, Margot McGovern and Carla Salmon.
What’s on for kids
A highlight of the evening is Book ‘N’ Boogie with bestselling children’s author Nat Amoore. This interactive experience combines storytelling, music and movement, encouraging kids to dance, laugh and celebrate books in a whole new way.
Families can also enjoy a special performance from Sunny Luwe, a proud Wayilwan woman and acclaimed singer-songwriter who shares uplifting stories and music inspired by culture, connection and optimism.
And if your kids have ever wanted to see an author covered in slime, this is their moment. Sliming for Charity returns, with lucky ticket holders getting the chance to slime R.A. Spratt, Will Kostakis and Matt Stanton, plus Immanuel College Principal John Thompson and Immanuel Primary School Principal Stephen Jude. Funds raised will support global literacy charity Room to Read.
More to explore
Throughout the evening, you’ll find live student performances, roving entertainers, spray tattoos, food trucks and the popular Great Book Swap supporting the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
Whether you’re raising an avid reader, an aspiring writer or just looking for a fun family night out, this is a lovely way to celebrate imagination and community.
The Community Evening is free to attend, with bookings recommended. Find out more at ouaf.immanuel.sa.edu.au.
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