Children’s Book Day: Meet Kid’s Authors and Illustrators in Beautiful Hudson Valley September 15!

By Amanda Gurall

Every September there is a unique family event in Tarrytown, NY called Children’s Book Day, where Hudson Valley authors and illustrators come out to Washington Irving’s beautiful Sunnyside estate to sign books, chat with the kids and do readings. I have attended several times and it is a really fun experience! Your kids can meet the very friendly authors of such books as Pinkalicious,  Biscuit, Bad Kitty, 39 Clues, Andrew Lost and dozens more – 60 in fact! Click here for the complete list. Authors and illustrators will read, do art demonstrations and discuss creating children’s literature throughout the day. They all personalize the signed books you purchase and many will do a small illustration to make the book even more special. (Read more after the jump).

I like to do some holiday shopping here as well – signed books make great gifts. Costumed characters like Biscuit, Franklin and Clifford roam the grounds and there will be a performance by the creators of the TV show “The Magic Garden” at 4:30.

This is a great chance to inspire a reluctant reader or excite a dedicated one, all set among the beautiful grounds of Sunnyside. There will be food provided for picnicking, you are also free to bring your own blanket and snacks. There isplenty of parking on site and with an easy shuttle bus service. The day runs from noon to 6pm and admission is $14 for adults; $12 for seniors; $8 for children 3-17; and free for children under 3 and HHV members. Tours of Irving’s house are included in the price of admission. Tickets can be purchased online:  www.hudsonvalley.org.

Washington Irving’s Sunnyside is on West Sunnyside Lane in Tarrytown, one mile south of the Tappan Zee Bridge, off Route 9. You might want to consider becoming members of Historic Hudson Valley, there will be lots of exciting events this year and you will save money while supporting historic preservation and education- stop by the membership information desk at the event or join online. See you there!