After an absence because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Multicultural Book and Family Festival of the Inland Region will return May 11 to Cal State San Bernardino.
The free event, featuring culture and literacy-enriching activities and a presentation by award-winning author Victor Villaseñor, will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cal State’s Santos Manuel Student Union South.
This year’s theme is “Building Vibrant Communities Through Literacy and Wellness.”
Villaseñor, known for his novel “Rain of Gold,” will be the keynote speaker, scheduled to speak at noon, according to a news release.
Villaseñor, who was born in Carlsbad, Calif., is also the author of “Thirteen Senses: A Memoir” and “Burro Genius: A Memoir,” among other books. His works are taught in U.S. schools, and he has received many awards and endorsements, including an appointment to serve as the founding Steinbeck Chair at Hartnell College and the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, according to the news release.
The event will include book giveaways, exhibits by health-care organizations, a children’s arts and crafts hall and entertainment by Ballet Folklorico Cultural de San Bernardino and Mariachi Juvenil Corona de Angeles.
Puppeteer and ventriloquist Maryellen Avilez Grande will perform for children in the afternoon, and free educational workshops will include “So, you want to become a doctor or a nurse” and “So, you want to become a writer and have your book published.”
Nataly’s Tacos will sell food at the event.
The festival is open to the public, and complimentary parking vouchers will be available at the main information kiosk at the entrance to campus, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino.
Event sponsors include the Cal State San Bernardino Office of the President; Santos Manuel Student Union; San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools; Libreria Del Pueblo; Jack Brown College of Business and Public Administration; the Mexican Consulate; the Black Faculty, Staff and Student Association; Empowering Latino Futures; and Sue and Cesar Caballero.
For information, contact Cesar Caballero at 323-304-6985.
