From March 2 to March 8, 2025, communities across the United States will come together to celebrate Read Across America Week. Organized by the National Education Association (NEA), this week-long event is dedicated to fostering a love for books and promoting literacy. It’s not just about reading—it’s about discovering the transformative power of stories and connecting with diverse voices from around the world.
Whether it’s diving into a beloved childhood classic, exploring new perspectives, or celebrating the joy of storytelling, Read Across America Week 2025 offers something special for everyone.
What Is Read Across America Week?
Read Across America Week is a vibrant celebration of reading that has grown far beyond its original purpose. What began as a single-day event to honor Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2nd has blossomed into a week-long celebration dedicated to inspiring a love for reading. This week, typically held in early March, invites schools, libraries, and communities across the United States to join together and highlight the importance of books in shaping young minds and fostering creativity.
At its core, the goal of Read Across America Week is simple but powerful: to inspire lifelong readers. It aims to foster a culture where reading is not just an academic requirement, but a source of joy and personal growth. The week encourages children to explore books, spark their imaginations, and develop a deep appreciation for the worlds they can discover between the pages.
A Journey from Dr. Seuss to Diverse Literature
Originally, Read Across America Week was centered around Dr. Seuss, one of the most beloved children’s authors in American history. His whimsical stories, like The Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham, captivated generations of readers with their playful language and vivid illustrations. Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2nd, became the focal point of the celebration, and schools across the country would engage children in reading his works.
However, over the years, Read Across America Week has evolved. While Dr. Seuss’s contributions to children’s literature are still celebrated, the event has broadened to embrace a diverse range of books, authors, and themes. Today, the focus is no longer solely on one author but on the power of reading itself. This evolution reflects a commitment to inclusivity—ensuring that all children, regardless of background or identity, can find stories that reflect their lives, cultures, and experiences.
Now, Read Across America Week celebrates literature from authors of different ethnicities, backgrounds, and perspectives. The celebration encourages students to read stories that broaden their understanding of the world and expose them to diverse viewpoints. This shift in focus helps children develop empathy, respect, and an appreciation for the richness of global cultures.
The Power of Representation in Literature
In recent years, a major focus of Read Across America Week has been on representation. It’s crucial that children see themselves in the books they read—whether in the characters they encounter or in the themes explored. By highlighting books that feature characters from diverse cultural backgrounds, abilities, and family structures, Read Across America Week helps to ensure that no child feels left out of the conversation.
At the same time, Read Across America Week encourages children to step outside their own experiences and read stories that expose them to different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Books like Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems, or Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry offer windows into different worlds, helping children develop a more inclusive and empathetic worldview.
In this way, Read Across America Week fosters not just a love for reading, but also a deeper understanding of the diverse world around us. Through books, children gain the tools to connect with others, challenge stereotypes, and build bridges between cultures.
A Week-Long Celebration of Reading for All
What began as a day to honor one iconic author has now grown into a week that celebrates the joy and importance of reading in all its forms. From Dr. Seuss’s timeless tales to the voices of contemporary authors, Read Across America Week is an invitation to explore the vast, colorful world of literature. It’s a week that reminds us that reading is not just an educational tool but a doorway to imagination, empathy, and understanding.
As the event continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to fostering a culture where every child is encouraged to read, to dream, and to imagine the endless possibilities that books provide. Through Read Across America Week, we celebrate the transformative power of stories and the lifelong love of reading they inspire.
Themes for Read Across America Week 2025
Each day during Read Across America Week has its own unique theme, encouraging creativity, engagement, and fun. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store for 2025:
Read Across America Week 2025 is sure to be a week filled with excitement, creativity, and plenty of opportunities to engage with the world of books. Here’s a look at the daily themes to inspire students, educators, and families alike:
Monday, March 3: Crazy Hat Day
Kick off Read Across America Week with a fun, lighthearted spirit! Crazy Hat Day invites everyone to wear their wackiest, most whimsical hats, inspired by Dr. Seuss’s iconic The Cat in the Hat.
This day is all about having fun while diving into stories filled with quirky characters. Read aloud some of Dr. Seuss’s classic books or explore other stories that celebrate creativity and imagination. It’s a great way to start the week with laughter and learning.
Tuesday, March 4: Diverse Stories Day
On Diverse Stories Day, the goal is to broaden horizons and celebrate stories from various cultures and backgrounds. Books that showcase different perspectives—such as The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson or Hair Love by Matthew A.
Cherry—will encourage conversations about inclusion, empathy, and the beauty of diversity. Introduce children to narratives that promote understanding and make the world feel a little smaller. It’s an important opportunity to highlight voices and experiences from around the globe.
Wednesday, March 5: Animal Adventures Day
Who doesn’t love a good animal tale? Animal Adventures Day is dedicated to exploring the wild and wonderful world of animals in literature.
Whether it’s the beloved If I Ran the Zoo by Dr. Seuss or the heartwarming Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, books about animals spark creativity and imagination.
Encourage students to take part in animal-themed crafts, games, and even a nature walk where they can spot animals in their own surroundings. It’s a day to get wild with reading!
Thursday, March 6: Throwback Thursday
On Throwback Thursday, celebrate timeless classics that have been passed down through generations. Books like Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson and Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown have stood the test of time and continue to captivate young minds.
Invite students to talk about their family’s favorite childhood stories, share memories of reading with loved ones, and perhaps discover a new classic to treasure.
It’s a day to celebrate the enduring power of books and the joy of nostalgia.
Friday, March 7: Favorite Book Friday
End the week with the best of the best! On Favorite Book Friday, students and teachers are encouraged to share their all-time favorite books, whether it’s a beloved picture book, a thrilling chapter book, or even a non-fiction read.
Host a reading marathon, where everyone reads for a set period, or organize a mini book fair, where students can exchange their favorite stories.
This day is all about celebrating the books that have made an impact and continue to spark a love of reading.
Saturday & Sunday: Community Reading Days
Wrap up Read Across America Week with two days dedicated to building community through books. Host community-driven activities such as book swaps, library visits, or family read-aloud sessions.
These days are about fostering a love of reading beyond the classroom, encouraging families to read together, and sharing the joy of stories with others.
Whether it’s a neighborhood book club or a local event at the library, Community Reading Days offer a wonderful way to strengthen bonds and share the magic of books.
By celebrating each of these themes, Read Across America Week 2025 will be a memorable experience for all ages, promoting a lifelong love of reading and inspiring new adventures through stories.
Creative Ways to Celebrate Read Across America Week
Making Read Across America Week memorable doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little creativity and planning, you can inspire a love for reading that will last a lifetime.
Here are some impactful ways to make this week of literacy unforgettable for children, families, and communities.
1. Create Magical Reading Spaces
Turn ordinary spaces into literary wonderlands that transport readers into their favorite stories. Decorate classrooms, libraries, or community centers with themes inspired by beloved books. Imagine a corner adorned with red and white stripes for a Dr. Seuss-themed reading area, complete with plush cushions and oversized hats. Or set up a Harry Potter-themed nook with floating candles, house banners, and books of spells. For younger readers, craft a jungle setting straight out of Where the Wild Things Are with vines, animal cutouts, and a “wild rumpus” storytime. These spaces can ignite imaginations and set the stage for memorable reading adventures.
2. Book-Themed Spirit Week
Nothing gets kids excited like a themed dress-up week! Combine the joy of books with a spirit week that encourages creativity and fun. Here’s a suggested lineup:
- Monday: Wear a shirt featuring a favorite book character.
- Tuesday: Dress up as a beloved book character (think Cat in the Hat, Harry Potter, or Matilda).
- Wednesday: Cozy up with Pajama Day, the perfect excuse for a relaxing storytime.
- Thursday: Wear a shirt with an inspiring quote from a book.
- Friday: Dress like a famous author—think Dr. Seuss’s signature bow tie or Shakespearean attire.
This activity not only makes the week more engaging but also connects students to their favorite stories in a fun and personal way.
3. Bring in Guest Readers
Invite special guests to read aloud to students. These could be local authors, community leaders, or even parents. The presence of a guest reader can make storytime feel extra special and memorable. For a modern twist, arrange virtual read-aloud sessions with authors or storytellers from across the country. Imagine a live reading from an author whose book the students just finished—it’s an experience that can inspire young readers to dream big.
4. Launch a Reading Challenge
Turn reading into an exciting challenge! Set individual or group goals, such as reading a certain number of books or logging a specific amount of reading time. Track progress on a giant wall chart or digital leaderboard. Reward participants with fun prizes like bookmarks, certificates, or book-themed swag. You could even have a “principal’s promise” challenge, where the principal agrees to do something wacky—like dress as a favorite book character—if the students meet their goal.
5. Host a Story Walk
Bring stories to life with a story walk! Display pages from a book along a trail, school hallway, or park path. Families can stroll together, reading page by page as they move through the story. It’s a fantastic way to combine physical activity with literacy. For a whimsical touch, decorate the route to match the story’s theme. For example, if using The Very Hungry Caterpillar, include giant fruit cutouts along the way.
6. Donate Books
Encourage students and their families to donate gently used books to schools, libraries, or local shelters. Not only does this spread the joy of reading to those in need, but it also teaches children the value of sharing and giving back to their community. Consider setting up a “book swap” table where kids can exchange books they’ve outgrown for something new to them.
7. Focus on Multicultural Books
Representation matters. Make Read Across America Week a celebration of diverse voices by featuring books from underrepresented authors and cultures. Choose stories that highlight different traditions, perspectives, and experiences. Titles like Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña or Wonder by R.J. Palacio can help broaden children’s horizons and build empathy. Pair these readings with discussions or crafts that explore the themes in the books.
8. End with a Family Literacy Night
Bring the community together with a cozy family literacy night. Create a welcoming environment with bean bags, fairy lights, and plenty of books. Activities could include:
- Reading bingo with small prizes.
- A parent-child storytime corner where families can read together.
- A book fair or swap station to encourage everyone to take home a new favorite.
Add snacks like popcorn, hot cocoa, or cookies to make the night even more inviting. These events not only promote literacy but also strengthen the bond between families and their shared love of stories.
So, Read Across America Week is an opportunity to go beyond simply reading—it’s about making stories come alive and showing children the magic that books hold. Whether it’s through whimsical decorations, spirited dress-up days, or the warmth of a family reading night, these activities help instill a love for books that will last a lifetime.
Remember, the goal is to make reading fun, accessible, and inclusive for everyone. By celebrating diverse voices and fostering creativity, we can help children see themselves—and others—in the pages they turn.
Fun Activities for Read Across America Week
Read Across America Week is a time to celebrate the joy of reading and inspire a love for books in students of all ages.
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or community leader, here are some engaging activities to make the week special:
1. Themed Dress-Up Days
- Cat in the Hat Day: Have students come to school dressed as their favorite book character. It’s a fun way to get creative and talk about beloved stories.
- Green Eggs and Ham Day: Everyone wears green, or you could even serve green eggs (or just green snacks!) to bring the famous Dr. Seuss book to life.
- Wacky Wednesday: Embrace the chaos with mismatched clothes or silly outfits, just like in Wacky Wednesday.
2. Reading Challenges
- Book Bingo: Create a bingo card filled with different reading challenges, like “Read a book with animals” or “Read for 10 minutes with a friend.” It’s a great way to get kids excited about reading all week long.
- Guest Readers: Invite local celebrities, parents, or community members to read to the class. It’s a fun way for students to hear new voices and stories.
3. Literacy Workshops
- Storytelling Sessions: Let kids take the stage and tell their own stories. You can have a “story hour” where they share their creations with the class.
- Writing Workshops: Get the kids writing! Help them craft their own stories or poems, and have a “publishing” session where they can read their work aloud to the class.
4. Book Donation Drives
- Organize a book drive where students can donate gently used books to schools or libraries. It’s a great way to give back while encouraging the spread of reading in the community.
5. Reading Aloud Events
- Read-Aloud Parties: Gather the kids in a cozy corner, read them a fun book (with lots of enthusiasm!), and maybe even bring in a few props to make it interactive. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the joy of reading.
- Classroom Read-Alouds: Take time each day to read aloud to your class, picking books that are fun, funny, or even a little thought-provoking.
6. Library Tours
- A trip to the local library is always exciting! Students can explore the stacks, get their own library cards, and discover a whole new world of books to borrow.
7. Creative Crafts
- Bookmark Making: Let kids design their own bookmarks to keep their place in their favorite books. It’s a craft they can take home and use!
- Book Covers: Encourage students to decorate a book cover for their favorite book. This personal touch can make reading even more fun.
8. Interactive Games
- Reading Scavenger Hunt: Set up a scavenger hunt where kids need to read certain pages or books to find clues. It’s an adventure that encourages them to dive into different books.
- Character Charades: In this fun game, kids act out characters from their favorite stories, and others try to guess who they are. It’s a great way to combine movement and storytelling.
9. Author Spotlights
- Pick a famous author, like Dr. Seuss or Roald Dahl, and dedicate a day to reading their books. You can explore their writing styles, create crafts based on their characters, or even act out parts of their stories.
10. Virtual Events
- If in-person celebrations aren’t possible, you can still get creative online! Organize virtual read-alouds, storytelling sessions, or online book clubs where kids can read together and discuss their favorite books.
Why Read Across America Week Matters
This celebration goes beyond encouraging children to read—it’s about creating lasting connections through stories. For children, reading builds vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. For adults, it rekindles the joy of storytelling and reminds us of the worlds that books open up.
Moreover, Read Across America Week emphasizes representation. It’s crucial that every child finds characters and stories they can relate to while also exploring narratives that broaden their understanding of others’ lives. By championing diverse books, we build empathy, understanding, and inclusivity in the next generation.
Recommended Reads for Read Across America Week
Here’s a list of books to explore during the celebration:
For Early Readers:
- Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
- The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
For Elementary Students:
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio
- The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
For Middle Schoolers:
- Ghost by Jason Reynolds
- Holes by Louis Sachar
For Teens:
- The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
Final Thoughts: Let’s Celebrate Literacy Together
Read Across America Week 2025 is more than an event—it’s a movement. Whether you’re diving into a classic tale or discovering a new favorite, this week celebrates the magic of books and the power of stories to connect us all.
So, grab your favorite book, gather your community, and join the celebration. Together, we can inspire the next generation of readers, one story at a time.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate Read Across America Week? Share your ideas in the comments!
