Young visitors add vibrancy to Ekushey Book Fair on day three
The organisers have arranged “Shishu Prohor” on Fridays, Saturdays and other holidays
The third day of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 saw a vibrant turnout of children and families as special programmes added colour and energy to the fairgrounds today (28 February).
The venue appeared relatively quiet shortly after noon, with fewer visitors walking through the premises and booksellers arranging titles at a steady pace under the afternoon sun. However, the atmosphere began to change as the day progressed, and within a short time, the sound of children's laughter and songs echoed across the grounds.
Near the main entrance, a group of children performed on a small cultural stage, clapping in rhythm as parents watched with smiles. A puppet show at the Kakatarua Puppet Theatre also drew enthusiastic young audiences.
The organisers have arranged "Shishu Prohor" on Fridays, Saturdays and other holidays. Friday marked the second day of the special programme.
Sejan, a child from Shantinagar, visited the fair with his father Shariful Islam and bought two fairy-tale books soon after entering. Shariful said he had dedicated the holiday to spending time with his son at the fair.
At the children's corner, parents were seen helping their children choose colourful storybooks. Lamia, 5, who recently started Class One, visited the fair for the first time. Nearby, two seventh-grade students from Wills Little Flower School and College browsed through books.
One of them, Tasfia, said, "Every year I save a specific budget only for buying books." She added that she plans to purchase several science books this year.
Although the day featured special arrangements for children, the number of adult visitors increased steadily as the afternoon progressed. By evening, the entire fairground lit up with decorative lights, and visitors were seen leaving with bags filled with books.
Kazi Arif, who travels from Gazipur every year to attend the fair, said he plans to buy books on politics and philosophy this time. "I have shortlisted them. I won't buy all of them today," he said.
Organised by the Bangla Academy, the Amar Ekushey Book Fair is held throughout February, featuring new book releases, literary discussions and cultural programmes. This year, the fair began on 26 February and will continue until 15 March.
