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As part of recognizing and celebrating International Literacy Day, the Miramichi Literacy Council has been holding an outdoor Annual Reading Party for the past 10 years.The event was the brainchild of one of the longtime members of the council, Leah Whipple. Two other senior members of the group were Ethel Mullin and Marjorie MacNaughton.All three of these women, as well as Harry Richards, contributed to the success of these events until their passing.

The venue has always been the amphitheater at Ritchie Wharf where children would gather with parents, grandparents and other caregivers to share the love of reading. In the beginning, the event attracted upwards of 50 people who would be involved in interactive literacy activities, listening to or dramatizing favourite children's stories, face painting, singing, music, entertainment and a yearly draw for a free book. Over the years interest has continued to grow and the numbers have increased annually to exceed 100.

Guest readers from the community read to the audience, sometimes in three languages. All present are given a nutritious snack.

In recent years other literacy partners have become actively involved, bringing variety and expertise to the program.

This 10th anniversary celebration is planned to be bigger and better, with the newly formed Miramichi Partners in Literacy sponsoring the event. These partners include local libraries, School District 16, Region 7 Hospital and the Miramichi Literacy Council.

The place to be for the annual Reading Party is Ritchie Wharf, on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 1-4 p.m.