Présidente du Département des Pyrénées-Orietnales, Hermelene Malherbe, points out that reading is not simply a portal to another, fantastical world. It is also plays a key role in a young person’s wider social development : honing critical analysis skills and creating free-thinking, responsable citizens. This year’s program tackles nature and wildlife, amongst other issues, using the media of story, song and dance to engage young people.

Throughout the year, the Department, under the direction of regional librarian Claude Simon, strives to engage younger audiences in the litarary arts. Efforts culminate in this magical event whose primary aim is to inspire a love of reading in an ever-more digital generation. La fête du livre vivant is now into its 15th edition and boasts bigger and better programs each year.

With street shows throughout the town centre as well as a big tent situated in the beautiful, shady park, literary fans of all ages are sure to find a feast for their imagination. This festival is free to all but with limited places will allow reservations for a maximum of 2 shows at a time, renewable as often as you like.