Everyone's favorite all-day, all-indie bookstore party returns on April 27, 2019: Independent Bookstore Day! We’re celebrating with exclusive merchandise, free audiobooks, storytime, treats, jazz, and more! Clear your schedules (and your bookshelves) now; the party at Red Balloon begins at 10am sharp.
Independent Bookstore Day also kicks-off Children's Book Week—an annual celebration of books for young people and the joy of reading. Check out our schedule for the week.
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2019 Schedule of Festivities
All Day Long: Twin Cities IBD passport stamps, scratch-off cards, exclusive merchandise (while supplies last)
10:45am: Read Aloud with the Lt. Governor!
Kick off your Minnesota #bookstoreday right by joining Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan at Red Balloon for a reading of one of her favorite picture books, Bowwow Powwow by Brenda Child, Jonathan Thunder (illus), and Gordon Jourdain.
11am: Sesame Street Storytime
Join storyteller Angela for a Sesame Street-inspired storytime featuring stories and songs from where the air is sweet! Visit the party room after storytime for a sweet snack and kid-friendly activities. To celebrate the 5th anniversary of Independent Bookstore Day, the 100th anniversary of Children's Book Week, and the 50th anniversary of Sesame Street, there's a brand new Golden Book: Elmo's New Puppy!
1pm: Escape Room!
Test your skills at the inaugural RBB IBD Escape Room! Best recommended for puzzlers ages 8 and up (or with adult assistance), groups of puzzlers will have 45 minutes to escape the room and win a one-day discount on the in-stock item of their choice. We’ll begin taking time slot reservations in person or over the phone beginning at 10am on Independent Bookstore Day, Saturday April 27. Maximum 6 puzzlers per group.
3pm: Jazz Ensemble
Browse, read, and shop to the sweet sounds of kid musicians from the Ramsey Middle School Jazz Band.
Preview the Indie Bookstore Day Exclusive Merch!
