The annual Read Across America Day celebrates both the joys of reading and beloved children's author Dr. Seuss. All are encouraged to pick up a book and read on March 2, which is the author's birthday.
The goal of the day is to show children that reading is fun and help them become book-lovers.
In Philadelphia and New Jersey, there are plenty of community events to join. Families can meet storybook characters, eat birthday treats and listen to classic Seuss stories.
Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss
Learn to make The Cat in the Hat fruit kabobs at the Whitman Library. Besides the sweet treat, there will also be arts & crafts and storytime.
Thursday, March 2
4 p.m. | Free
Free Library of Philadelphia: Whitman
200 Snyder Ave.
Dr. Seuss Birthday Party
Dr. Seuss would be turning 113 this year, if he were still alive. Celebrate the author by joining the South Philadelphia Library for stories, games and cake.
Thursday, March 2
4 p.m. | Free
Free Library of Philadelphia: South Philadelphia
1700 S. Broad St.
Read Across America at the Zoo
The Elmwood Park Zoo will host a Read Across America celebration on Saturday, March 4.
Author Jerry Spinelli, who wrote favorites like "Stargirl" and "Maniac Magee," will make an appearance at the zoo, along with characters Curious George and The Berenstain Bears.
Then check out the book fair sponsored by Children's Book World before heading home.
Saturday, March 4
11 a.m. | Free with zoo admission
Elmwood Park Zoo
1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown, PA
Dining with Dr. Seuss: "The Lorax"
Head to lunch or dinner at The Pop Shop in Collingswood and meet The Cat in the Hat. He will be making appearances from noon-2 p.m. and 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 2.
There will be a reading of "The Lorax" at 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., too. All are encouraged to wear green for the occasion.
Thursday, March 2
The Pop Shop
729 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, New Jersey
Dining with Dr. Seuss: "Green Eggs and Ham" and "The Foot Book"
On Friday, March 3, The Pop Shop will continue celebrating Dr. Seuss.
The restaurant will offer a "Green Eggs and Ham" breakfast in the morning. The Cat in the Hat will be there from 9-10 a.m., there will be a special Seuss breakfast, and there will be a "Green Eggs and Ham" reading at 9:30 a.m.
Then, at lunch, The Cat in the Hat will be at The Pop Shop from noon-2 p.m. At 12:30, there will be a reading of "The Foot Book."
Another reading of the book will take place at 5 p.m.
Children are encouraged to wear fun, colorful or crazy socks for the Dr. Seuss events.
Friday, March 3
The Pop Shop
729 Haddon Ave., Collingswood, New Jersey
Celebrate Dr. Seuss at Home
Seussville offers parents a range of ideas on how to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday at home. Families can create recipes together, make crafts and play themed games.
Get kids excited about reading by scheduling storytime between dance parties and puppet shows.