NEW ORLEANS – A wet weather forecast has caused organizers of The New Orleans Book Festival to cancel this year’s event.
They released the following statement Wednesday:
It brings us great disappointment to inform you that this year’s New Orleans Book Festival (NOBF) has been canceled due to the threat of persistent rain and possible thunderstorms over this upcoming weekend. A safe, family friendly atmosphere remains our top priority and the expected weather will unfortunately prevent us from meeting that standard. We weighed many different factors in the decision, especially consideration of our numerous authors and partners. The weather would likely have obstructed New Orleans' families from enjoying the festivities.
In five years, the New Orleans Book Festival has attracted nearly 25,000 attendees and donated 45,000 books through partnerships with local, regional and national sponsors. This festival is about creating a space for people from all backgrounds and neighborhoods, especially children, to come together around a love of books. In order to make the Book Fest accessible, organizers present free readings, presentations, signings and activities. In addition to free admittance, NOBF provides free transportation and free books.
Local authors and community partners who were scheduled to participate in this year's festival will be re-invited to participate in the next NOBF, which will be held in the fall of 2016.
