If you have a child who always has their nose in a book, a budding writer in the family, or you simply love the idea of escaping somewhere cosy with a good read, Randwick’s Reading Takeover could be a lovely way to spend a September weekend.
On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026, Randwick Town Hall will be transformed into a welcoming space dedicated to books, reading and writing as part of Randwick City Council’s Town Hall Takeover.
And one of the nicest parts? You don’t need to book, it’s completely free, and you can simply drop in.
Settle In for the Read-In and Write-In
Running from 12pm to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday, the Read-In and Write-In is essentially an invitation to make some uninterrupted time for reading and creativity.
Throughout Randwick Town Hall, visitors will find tables, chairs, beanbags and cosy little nooks where they can settle in with a favourite book, start writing a story, work on a novel or simply enjoy being surrounded by other people who love literature.
Whether you’re working on the next great Australian novel, experimenting with a children’s story, writing a screenplay or happily rereading an old favourite, everyone is welcome.
You can come by yourself, bring a friend, or make it a family outing.
There will even be snacks provided, making it particularly tempting to settle in for a few hours.
Bring a Book and Swap It
Have books at home that you’ve finished reading?
Bring one along for the pop-up book swap and exchange it for something new to take home.
On Saturday 12 September only, visitors can also browse books from local pop-up bookseller The Rose Read Bookshop, so you may arrive with one book and leave with several more on your reading list.
A Great Opportunity for Young Writers
For older kids and teenagers who enjoy creative writing, the weekend could also be a wonderful opportunity to spend some dedicated time developing their ideas away from the usual distractions at home.
There is no expectation that you need to be an experienced writer. Readers and writers of all levels are welcome.
The wider Reading Takeover program also includes author talks and creative writing workshops, giving emerging writers the chance to learn more about the craft.
On Sunday 13 September from 10am to 12pm, there will be a workshop on Creating Character through Dialogue, followed by the Read-In and Write-In from 12pm.
More Than Just One Weekend
September is only the beginning.
Randwick’s Reading Takeover returns in November, providing another weekend dedicated to books, authors and writing.
The full program includes:
Saturday 12 September
- Author Panel Talk: 10am–12pm
- Read-In and Write-In: 12pm–4pm
Sunday 13 September
- Creating Character through Dialogue workshop: 10am–12pm
- Read-In and Write-In: 12pm–4pm
Saturday 28 November
- Author Panel Talk: 10am–12pm
- Read-In and Write-In: 12pm–4pm
Sunday 29 November
- Writing Your Novel: Balancing Plot and Theme workshop: 10am–12pm
- Read-In and Write-In: 12pm–4pm
Celebrating a Love of Reading
Randwick’s Reading Takeover is organised by Ashley Kalagian Blunt, a bestselling multi-genre author and passionate advocate for reading and emerging writers.
Ashley is the author of psychological thriller Dark Mode, as well as Cold Truth, Like, Follow, Die, How to Be Australianand My Name Is Revenge. She also co-hosts the James and Ashley Stay at Home podcast and teaches writing workshops around Australia.
For the Reading Takeover, Ashley is bringing together authors from different genres to celebrate books while encouraging the next generation of writers.
Why We Love This for Eastern Suburbs Families
There is something refreshingly simple about this event.
In a weekend often filled with sport, activities, shopping and screens, the Reading Takeover creates a space where families can slow things down.
Bring a book. Find a beanbag. Swap an old favourite. Start writing that story that’s been floating around in your head. Or encourage your child or teenager to spend an afternoon surrounded by other people who think books are pretty wonderful too.
Best of all, you don’t need to commit to the entire afternoon. Drop in when it suits you and stay for as long as you like.
Randwick’s Reading Takeover: Read-In and Write-In
When: Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 September 2026
Time: 12pm–4pm
Where: Randwick Town Hall, 90 Avoca Street, Randwick
Cost: Free
Bookings: No registration required
Who: Readers and writers of all levels; come solo, with friends or as a family
Bring: A favourite book and, if you have one, a book to contribute to the pop-up book swap
For more information, visit the Randwick City Council website or contact arts@randwick.nsw.gov.au.
