The 2025 Book Bash is setting sail at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Saturday, April 5, inviting VPK–5th graders and their families to a fun-filled, pirate-themed reading celebration. This free event, hosted by New Worlds Reading, will run from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and promises an afternoon packed with story read-alouds, interactive reading activities, giveaways, and take-home books to build home libraries.
Adding to the excitement, kids can enjoy face painting, balloon art, and even a special visit from Clifford the Big Red Dog. The event aims to make reading fun while ensuring children have access to books that support their literacy development.
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New Worlds Reading, a statewide program administered by the UF Lastinger Center for Learning, provides free books and resources to more than 71,000 eligible students in Hillsborough County. Designed to support nearly one million Florida students who are not yet reading at grade level, the program offers each enrolled child nine free books per school year. Each book delivery comes in a personalized package with reading activities that families can use together to strengthen literacy skills. Books are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and braille.
A big book bash for kids in Tampa ahead of summer break
With summer break around the corner, now is the perfect time for families to get involved. Kids who apply by June 9, 2025, will receive their nine free books for this school year, plus three bonus books to keep their reading momentum going throughout the summer.
Since its launch, New Worlds Reading has distributed more than 8.8 million books to Florida children. “New Worlds Reading wants to do more than give books to students—we want to create experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning,” said Robin Gregory, Interim Assistant Director of New Worlds Reading at the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. “Our annual Book Bash is always an exciting event, bringing families together to explore the joy of reading and emphasize the importance of literacy.”
The Book Bash will be held at Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy in Tampa. Free parking will be available on-site. Don’t miss this chance to spark your child’s love of reading while enjoying a fun-filled afternoon. More information is available here. You can reserve your spot in advance online.
