FREE Christmas StoryWalk for children 2026

A FUN FREE FAMILY EVENT

POP-UP CHRISTMAS STORY WALK®

CARLTON GARDENS | Sunday 13 December | Anytime between 10.00am and 3.30pm

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Perfect for children aged 2-8 years (who must be accompanied by an adult).

With a map in hand, follow the signs and discover a delightful, new Christmas story as you explore the beautiful Carlton Gardens.

Come and meet Jo Dabrowski who wrote The Thing About Christmas, which was short-listed for the CBCA's Children's Book of the Year Awards.

And there are lots of fun activities and little surprises for little people along the way!

What is a StoryWalk®?

A StoryWalk® brings together the pleasures of reading, walking and exploring the outdoors.

• Enjoy a children's picture book displayed on storyboards along a trail.

• Read the story together as you follow the path.

• Share a fun outdoor experience with family and friends.

Make a day of it!

Gather family and friends for a picnic in the park, visit the Melbourne Museum or enjoy the fabulous children's playground. And while you're there, why not join our free Christmas StoryWalk®?

Simply collect your map and guide sheet from our registration desk near the children's playground (enter the gardens via Rathdowne Street, just north of Melbourne Museum).

How long does it take? Allow approximately 45 minutes – although you can take as long as you like, especially if there's time for a play in the playground!

Planning to come along? We encourage you to register in advance so we have an idea of numbers. However, pre-registration is not essential - walk-ins are very welcome on the day!

The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, USA, in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in 2007. Since then, hundreds, if not thousands, of StoryWalks® have appeared around the world.

*With thanks to the City of Melbourne for its generous support, and to City of Melbourne Libraries, the Children's Book Council of Australia - Victoria Branch and Readings Children's Bookshop Carlton, for their support and assistance.

Sincere thanks to Jo Dabrowsky, Briony Stewart and Little Book Press for their creativity.