ROCK HILL, S.C. — Families with young children are invited to explore the joy of poetry, play and community during Poetry & Play: A We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival Event on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 4–6 p.m. at Miracle Park, 1005 Eden Terrace in Rock Hill.
Designed especially for children ages 1–5 and their families, Poetry & Play Fund Day will feature hands-on activities, children’s book readings, treats, family resources and opportunities to connect with community organizations. The event warmly welcomes all families, with a special focus on creating an inclusive experience for children with medical complexities and visible and invisible disabilities.
The event was created by City of Rock Hill Poet Laureate Carlo L’Chelle Dawson and Youth Poet Laureate Kh’Mani Gilliam as part of the We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival.
For both poets, the event has a deeply personal connection. Gilliam’s 2-year-old brother has PIGA, inspiring her desire to create a meaningful experience for families of children with disabilities. Dawson, whose children have invisible disabilities, shares that commitment to creating a welcoming space where every child and family can participate, connect, and celebrate.
Guests will experience the magic of poetry with Gilliam and participate in a special interactive We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival activity led by Dawson. Local authors will also join the celebration to read and share their stories with young guests, including Emmy-Award Winning Journalist Laurabree and Meteorologist Keith Monday, authors of the children’s book Weathering the Storm. The book shares Keith Monday’s journey of facing childhood fears and ultimately turning his fascination with weather into a career in meteorology.
Beyond poetry and storytelling, families will have an opportunity to enjoy hands-on activities, discover valuable resources and connect with organizations that support children and families throughout the community.
Poetry & Play Fun Day
Sunday, September 27, 2026
4–6 p.m.
Miracle Park
1005 Eden Terrace, Rock Hill, SC
Explore. Play. Create. Connect. Celebrate.
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Thomas Hyslip lives in Tega Cay with his wife and daughter. After 27 years in the U.S. Army and Federal Law Enforcement, he retired to pursue his passion for teaching. Tom is now an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. In 2 short years he has won 10 awards from the South Carolina Press Association, including first place in column writing, education beat reporting and best podcast.
