Bristol’s Festival of Stories brings tales to life for all ages

Whether it was a childhood classic or a riveting adult novel, stories have a way of binding us together in shared wonder. And this November, that magic will take centre stage at the Festival of Stories in Bristol, hosted at Sparks Bristol in Broadmead.

Taking place on Saturday, November 30, from 10am to 6pm, this free event promises something for everyone – from cosy storytelling sessions to bustling market stalls.

Charlie Keenan, one of the festival organisers, said: “The Festival of Stories was created initially as a way to help put Sparks on the map as an events space when it first opened. There were several shops selling books and related items, and so we wanted to create an event that would engage the local community with this brand-new wonderful space and the creatives within.”

It started small, with a few authors and shops, but quickly blossomed into something much bigger.

He continued: “Our shop ‘Paper Tales’ began to stock books from local authors involved in the event, which then grew into a community of over 30 local authors. We aim to continue supporting local talent and small businesses using this event to bring like-minded people together.”

The feedback from previous festivals has been overwhelmingly positive. “One of the highlights from the festival in March was hearing from authors who performed readings. They had never read to such a large audience before and really valued the opportunity to do so.”

The festival has a packed schedule of activities designed to delight all ages. Key attractions this year include:

· Local storytellers performing live readings

· Craft workshops and writing workshops

· Publishing advice sessions

· Stalls featuring vintage, collectable, and second-hand books courtesy of Emmaus Bristol

· Fancy-dress costumes, face painting, and even circus tricks!

“This year, we’re introducing poetry and spoken word performances as well as a poetry-writing workshop,” adds Charlie. “The Bristol Bestiary Boardgame and a tarot reader will also be making appearances.”

The event is as inclusive as it is diverse. “We especially wanted to give families something free to do during the festive season,” says Charlie. “We’ve made sure our lineup reflects the diversity of the communities in Bristol, with stories that touch on race, the LGBTQIA+ experience, families and motherhood, and neurodiversity.”

Accessibility is a priority too. Sparks is fully wheelchair accessible, and all toilets – including baby-changing, accessible, and gender-neutral facilities – will be open throughout the day.

“This is a grassroots event, with local talent at its heart. We’ve been very kindly sponsored by two local publishers – Tangent Books and Discover Your Bounce. Their support has been invaluable in ensuring we can put this event on for free for everyone.”

Pulling off an event of this scale is no easy feat, especially with a small team. “It’s just me, supported by volunteers, friends, and family,” Charlie says. “SPARKS has been brilliant, particularly with marketing the event, and our volunteers and traders have done amazing work creating decorations and planning displays.”

One of the standout creative efforts this year comes from Marcie K Designs, responsible for crafting intricate window displays themed around Cinderella and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. “Logistics planning has been tough because of the sheer variety of components, but we know all the hard work will be worth it.”

Returning participants, alongside new contributors, provide a wonderful balance. “Many of our participants from previous events will be back again, but word has also spread to lots of new faces. There is no better feedback than repeat customers and traders who love the event as much as we do.”

Looking to the future, Charlie has big dreams for the Festival of Stories. “We’re already three times the size we were last year. In the future, I’d love to incorporate writing competitions and create more networking opportunities for aspiring writers. The event largely tends to take shape on its own, with input from so many creative people. We’re just along for the ride, trying to make it happen.”

Above all, the festival is about storytelling as a source of solace and joy. “Storytelling, for me, is a way to take a breath at times when life feels overwhelming. It reminds you of the beautiful things in life. I love that people can interpret the same story in different ways because of their personal experiences. This event is a space where people can pause for a while, surround themselves with positivity, and share that with others.

“We encourage people to attend, even if just for an hour (though we suspect you’ll stay longer),” Charlie says.

You can find updates about the line-up and more on the Facebook event page here.