Families with children ages 1 to 5 have a new reason to head to Miracle Park later this month. Poetry & Play: A We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival Event is set for Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at 1005 Eden Terrace in Rock Hill. The program will combine poetry, reading and play with a focus on inclusion.
The gathering, detailed by Fort Mill Sun, welcomes all families, but organizers say they built it with a specific group in mind: children with medical complexities and both visible and invisible disabilities. The event promises hands-on activities, children's book readings, treats, family resources and chances to connect with community organizations, according to the same report.
Poet Laureates Behind the Idea
City of Rock Hill Poet Laureate Carlo L'Chelle Dawson and Youth Poet Laureate Kh'Mani Gilliam created Poetry & Play as part of the broader We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival, according to the Fort Mill Sun. Gilliam was inspired to create an experience for families of children with disabilities; the report notes that Gilliam's 2-year-old brother has PIGA. Dawson also has children with invisible disabilities, the outlet reports.
At the event, Gilliam will lead poetry experiences for guests, while Dawson will lead a special interactive We Are Rock Hill Poetry Festival activity, according to the Fort Mill Sun's account. The pairing puts both laureates directly in front of the families the event was designed to serve.
Inclusive features at Miracle Park
The event's accessibility focus also fits its setting. According to the City of Rock Hill, Miracle Park has a playground and sensory wall described as inclusive play spaces for children and adults of all abilities. The supplied park information identifies those features but does not specify additional visitor accommodation rules. Separately, the city's Therapeutic Recreation program provides leisure activities for children and adults with disabilities, including arts offerings such as cooking, pottery and jewelry making, according to Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism.
Local Authors Bring a Story About Facing Fears
Local authors Laurabree and Keith Monday are scheduled to read from and share their children's book, Weathering the Storm, with young guests, per the Fort Mill Sun. Laurabree is described in the report as an Emmy Award-winning journalist, and Keith Monday works as a meteorologist. The book traces Monday's own journey of facing childhood fears and eventually turning his fascination with weather into a meteorology career, the outlet notes.
The duo's book has made appearances beyond Rock Hill as well. According to Tega Cay Fire Department, Laurabree and Keith Monday will visit the department to share Weathering the Storm with families, with a reading, weather facts and myths, and discussion of how first responders help children feel safe during emergencies and severe weather. More about the authors and their book is available through Monday Weather.
What Families Can Expect at Miracle Park
The event will pair creative activities with opportunities to learn about family resources and connect with community organizations, according to the Fort Mill Sun. That combination is intended to give families of young children a welcoming setting for both play and community connection.
