Kent District Library goes beyond books to celebrate bands, beer, bikes and BBQ

Partygoers can expect the unexpected as Kent District Library rolls out a new annual event that invites the public to experience the best of the diverse community programs it has to offer.

SuperPartyWonderDay is a free community celebration that brings together bands, beer, bikes and BBQ—all things that patrons of the award-winning

KDL system can explore through its programs and services. On Saturday, Aug. 12 from noon to 8 p.m. at the Meadows of Millennium Park, located at 1415 Maynard Ave. SW in Walker, the event goes “Beyond Books” to celebrate the breadth of offerings that KDL provides—and the area communities that makes it a success.

“We are beyond excited to host our first ever SuperPartyWonderDay,” said KDL Executive Director Lance Werner. “We have a whole smorgasbord full of excellent activities that will celebrate how KDL takes our patrons beyond books. Whether you’re a fan of bands, beer, bikes or BBQ, this is sure to be a day of unexpected fun.

“It also gives us a great chance to showcase the many unique programs and services we provide that you wouldn’t expect from a library. Patrons are surprised when they learn they can check out a bike. Or an iPad or wireless hotspot. Or download free video games and ebooks.

Or take grilling lessons, learn to brew beer or get help creating a movie or podcast. At KDL, our goal is to connect people with new ideas and new ways of exploring their community and the world around us.”

Highlights include:

• KDaLe program partners Railtown Brewing Co., Cedar Springs Brewing Co., Kayla Rae Cellars, Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery and Cascade Cellars Winery will be on tap to provide beer, cider and wine to eventgoers.
• Performances by KDL local indie bands Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, CønradShøck + The Nøise and Brother Adams will provide musical entertainment throughout the day.
• The SuperPartyWonderRide will offer participants an opportunity to hop on their bikes and cruise through the park led by a squadron of KDL Cruisers. Bicycle parking and support provided by Bike KDL and Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition.
• The Rib CookOff will give grilling aficionados the opportunity to put their skills to the test. The event is sponsored by the Grilling Company. Participants will be judged on taste, visual appearance and tenderness. The public will be allowed to get in the action and sample tastes of the participants’ entries.
• Food trucks, including Patty Matters, A Moveable Feast and Moochies Dream Cream, will be on hand to serve up goodies like ice cream, popcorn, slushies, patties of all sorts and locally sourced fresh, seasonal food.
• Partygoers will have a chance to play KDL’s most popular kid-friendly games, such as giant checkers, beanbag toss, a top-secret STEAM activity and more.

While seating is available throughout the venue, ample lawn space is available to partygoers who wish to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Both “human” and “furry” kids are welcome.

For more information on the event, visit www.kdl.org/superparty. Connect with KDL on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with #KDLSuperParty.