Mérida — The initiative, spearheaded by local bookseller Mario Quintana, seeks to transform the Parque de Las VII Sillas into a vibrant outdoor venue dedicated to storytelling, creativity, and encouraging reading among children. The event, titled "Puertas al Bosque" (Doors to the Forest), will take place on October 16, from 6 PM to 10 PM.
Antonio Vélez, the city’s cultural delegate, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "It is a cultural proposal that stands on its own; children are the protagonists in an event that turns public space—specifically one of our most valued green areas—into a stage for imagination, creation, play, and storytelling."
Vélez further remarked, "Culture does not begin when we are adults. It starts when we discover things as children, read a story, or, as in this case, when they enter through a small door in a tree and await the discovery of their favorite character."
Mario Quintana, owner of the bookstore "La Selva Dentro" and organizer of the festival, expressed his desire to utilize one of the most beautiful spaces in Mérida. He stated, "I want to show that we can fill it again, and only with the collaboration of everyone."
He acknowledged the challenges of gathering children and encouraging them to venture outdoors, noting, "We want children from different schools and areas of Mérida to meet; it is the right place, as the park is large and safe."
The festival will feature small doors inspired by the tale of Ratoncito Pérez, a popular character in Spanish children's literature. Children and their families will have bells to attract attention and initiate spontaneous storytelling.
The program will include storytelling sessions led by educators and children's authors, featuring tales such as "The Story of the Condor Boy Kundur" by Priscila and "Super Mouse" by Rubén Galván. The event will also offer children's music and a dynamic area with professionals and artisans showcasing handmade book covers, lettering, plants, books, and illustrations.
Additionally, the local establishment "La Carpandería" will set up a food point offering sweets and pizzas to facilitate a snack-dinner for families throughout the evening.
