The Real News Louisiana

January 29, 2026: (Natchitoches, LA) The Service League of Natchitoches will host Reading on the River, an annual community literacy event promoting the importance and enjoyment of reading outside of the classroom, on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The event will take place on the Natchitoches Riverbank from 10am-2pm.
The free, fun event for pre-K to 5th grade children includes reading-related activities, games, and music for children and families. Each child who attends will be able to take home at least one free new or used book. In past years, Reading on the River has distributed over 1,000 books to local children to promote literacy and education.
“Reading on the River is about meeting children where they are and showing them that books can be exciting, engaging, and full of possibility,” said Savannah Williams, Service League President. “Early exposure to reading is critical, and this event allows us to support literacy in a meaningful, hands-on way.”
Applications are now open for vendors to participate. There is no cost for participation, and each vendor is responsible for their own tent/booth space, table, chairs, and decorations. Each vendor should select a theme of their choice, whether centered around a popular children’s book or organization specific. Vendors should provide at least one activity for attendees, such as storytelling, a small craft activity, or a coloring sheet.
This event is supported by Cane River National Heritage Area and the Natchitoches Parish Early Childhood Network.
If you or your organization is interested in serving as a vendor or supporting Reading on the River, please contact Jessica Mullican at jessica@canerivernha.org or 318-356-5555.