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World Book Day 2026 Brings Costumes and a Literacy Push to York and Ryedale

Local leaders used the celebrations to spotlight reading initiatives, including a pledge to fund a library space in every primary school.

Overview

  • Schools and families across York and North Yorkshire marked the March 5 event with widespread dress-up and reading-focused activities.
  • York Press received more than 100 reader photos showcasing children and parents in costume, with coverage boosted by a sister-title partnership.
  • Popular outfits leaned on classic children’s books by Julia Donaldson, Roald Dahl and JK Rowling, alongside comic and film characters such as Star Wars, Spider-Man and the Joker.
  • Classrooms and preschools ran games and performances including a ‘Masked Reader’ challenge, buddy reading, story-in-a-box projects and even Harry Potter-themed Quidditch.
  • Mayor David Skaith bought books at York’s Little Apple Bookshop to mark the day, while MP Rachael Maskell promoted the ‘Go All In’ campaign and highlighted the government’s school library funding pledge.