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SOUTH LOOP — Chicago Poet Laureate avery r. young and drag performer Carrie Dragshaw are among dozens of authors and artists scheduled to appear at the Printers Row Lit Fest this weekend.
Now in its 38th year, the fest runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday between Polk Street and Ida B. Wells Drive in Printers Row. Over 100,000 visitors are expected to attend the event, which is hosted by the Near South Planning Board.
young, the city’s inaugural poet laureate, will join state poet laureate Angela Jackson for “The Poets Laureate.” young, the Leader for a New Chicago 2022 awardee, was appointed to his post in April. Other poets scheduled to appear include Kazim Ali, Mary Jo Bang, Taylor Byas and Charif Shanahan.
Author Dan Clay, whose Carrie Dragshaw persona (based on “Sex and the City’s” Carrie Bradshaw) has become a viral hit, will be on hand to discuss his new book, “Becoming a Queen.” The New York City-based creative has dressed like the iconic character since 2016, amassing over 125,000 followers on Instagram.
Journalist Natalie Moore will moderate a discussion with 2023 Pulitzer Prize nonfiction category winners Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa, co-authors of “His Name Is George Floyd: One Man’s Life and the Struggle for Racial Justice”
The fest will kick off with a children’s parade led by the Yin He Dancers, in partnership with the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce and the Chicago Public Library’s Great Horned Owl. Kids are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes for the parade, and families will be able to participate in face painting and a treasure hunt as well.
And for those who love a good story time, Miss Friendship Ambassador Amy Xie will tell the folkloric story of “Chang’E and Houyi Goddess of the Moon.”
Attendees can explore over 100 exhibitors and booksellers at the event, including Sandmeyer’s Bookstore, Expressions From Englewood and the Driehaus Museum.
The Printers Row Lit Fest is supported by a Chicago Presents grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. View the map and schedule of events online.
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