The Festival of Smiles. A story suitable for children from 6 to 10 years old.

In the small town of Village of Joy, where green hills and a crystal-clear river adorned the landscape, lived Emma, a curious little girl full of ideas. One afternoon, while playing in the square, she heard Mr. Pedro, the wisest old man in town, telling stories about the festivals that used to bring everyone together.

“Those were happy times,” said Mr. Pedro with a melancholic smile. “The square was filled with laughter, songs and hugs.”

Intrigued, Emma gathered her friends Carlos and Lucía. “What if we organized our own festival?” she suggested. Everyone’s eyes sparkled with excitement.

The group began to work. Carlos, always practical, divided up the tasks. Lucía, with her artistic talent, designed colorful garlands and posters. Emma and other children visited the neighbors, inviting them to the event and collecting food donations.

With effort and dedication, the square came to life. There were tables decorated with flowers, traditional games, and a stage for presentations. The children even organized a “half hour of hugs” for the elderly, where they offered hugs in exchange for a smile.

On the day of the festival, Village of Joy was buzzing with excitement. The elderly arrived first, amazed by the children’s efforts. Mr. Pedro, excited, said, “This is better than I remembered.”

Lucia introduced a dance with other children, and Carlos led games such as tug-of-war and sack races. Mr. Pedro, with a borrowed megaphone, invited the adults to join in. Laughter echoed as the elderly shared hugs and anecdotes and the children listened in amazement.

“Thank you for this,” said Mrs. Margarita, an elderly woman who rarely left her house. “Today I feel young again.”

As night fell, everyone gathered around a tree adorned with lights to share stories and thank the children. Emma spoke up: “This festival is to remember that a smile can change someone’s day. But we don’t want it to be just today. How about we do it every year?”

Applause filled the square. Village of Joy had found a new tradition, thanks to the solidarity and generosity of its children.

Since then, every spring, the Festival of Smiles became the most anticipated event in the town, a reminder that with small actions, the lives of many can be brightened.