Changing Hands Bookstore to Host 40th Anniversary Celebration in Tempe April 5

Changing Hands Bookstore has seen a lot in its 40 years: celebrity book signings, literary talks, film screenings, the development of a second location in Central Phoenix, and of course, Grumpy Cat. To celebrate the good times had and the good times ahead, the independent retailer has announced it’s throwing an all-day birthday blowout.

See also: Changing Hands’ First Draft Book Bar in Phoenix Now Hiring

To commemorate four decades of bringing the literary arts to Tempe, Changing Hands Bookstore will throw a 40th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, April 5. The free in-store festivities, scheduled from 9:30 a.m. until 9 p.m., will include live music from such acts as The Band Europa, Autumn Moon, Half Way Home, Bossa Nossa, and Walt Richardson.

There will also be a champagne toast and cake, a chanting session led by Pinna Joseph, henna tattoos, tarot card readings, a book discussion of Kate DiCamillo’s Newbery Medal-winning Flora & Ulysses led by Club Read, and a meet and greet with authors Wendelin Van Draanen and Mark Huntley Parsons on their teen novel book tour, “He Said, She Said.”

This is an all-ages event. Kids’ activities including magic shows, cookie decorating, and costume storytime with the Lorax. For those unable to make it to this one-day celebration, Changing Hands is also offering a 15 percent off coupon, valid April 1 through April 5. Download the coupon online or visit Changing Hands Bookstore for the full schedule of anniversary events.

Follow Jackalope Ranch on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.