Third Time’s the Charm: Back to the Books Returns to Downtown Ephrata!

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Third Time’s the Charm: Back to the Books Returns to Downtown Ephrata!

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Christine Myers

The llamas are back, the backpacks are ready, and downtown Ephrata is about to become the coolest classroom you've ever seen!

Turn Story Time Into Adventure Time This August 2nd!

Summer reading programs are great, but have you ever read a book by walking through an entire downtown? That’s exactly what’s happening Saturday, August 2nd when Mainspring of Ephrata transforms Main Street into a literary adventure for our Third Annual First Saturday Back to the Books event!

From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., families can embark on an interactive book walk featuring “Llama Unleashes the Alpacalypse” – the second laugh-out-loud installment from beloved local author Jonathan Stutzman and illustrator Heather Fox. And yes, both creators will be there to sign books, perform a reading, and meet their fans!

πŸŽ’ How the Magic Works

Ready for the most fun way to get school-ready? Here’s your mission:

  • Start your quest at Whistle Stop Plaza (16 E. Main Street)
  • Grab your gear – every child gets a backpack filled with school supplies and map showing the book walk route
  • Follow the story – as pages from “Llama Unleashes the Alpacalypse” guide you through downtown businesses
  • Claim your prize – free books for all kids 12 and under at the end of the book route!
    Pro tip: Don’t miss the special readings at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. where you can get your book personally signed! This author/illustrator duo is not to be missed – it’s not just a reading – it’s a performance!
🎡 The Fun Doesn’t Stop at 4:30!

Just when you think the day couldn’t get better, our signature Party on the Plaza kicks off with live music by Dani LaCour, the Louisiana singer-songwriter who’s shared stages with Miranda Lambert and Maren Morris. Her alt-country and southern rock sound creates the perfect soundtrack for a perfect summer evening.

Food & Beverage Lineup:

Pour Man’s Brewing Company – Local craft favorites
Old Republic Distillery Ephrata – Artisan spirits
Ephrata Reading Elks Lodge 115 – Community favorites
Weathered Vineyards – Local wine selections
Rad.ish Food Truck – Creative culinary adventures
Strada Cafe – Italian-inspired deliciousness
Big Back Burgers – Excellent smash burgers
Greco’s Italian Ices & Homemade Ice Cream – Sweet summer treats
Javateas Gourmet Coffee Cafe – Specialty beverages

Retail Vendor Showcase:

Sugarplum Country – Artisan goods and delights
Crafted From Faith – Unique faith-inspired creations
Hello Dia – Boutique finds and accessories
E Rae Crochet – Handcrafted crochet items
Creations by Ali – Custom artistic pieces
Creators Hair Studio – Professional hair services
Creator Barber Shop – Classic barber experience
Lavender Acres Winery – Local wine tastings
Monas Creation – Handmade treasures
Off the Hook Creations, By Sharon Hoover – Unique crafted items
Botanically Inspired Pottery – Beautiful ceramic art
Cyrus’ 3D Printing – Innovative 3D printed goods
Keenllen Homestead – Farm-fresh products
Art by Bun Bun – Creative artistic expressions

🌟 Why This Event Matters (And Why You’ll Love It!)

β€œOur Back to the Books event captures what we’re trying to achieve – bringing families downtown, supporting local business, and creating opportunities for our partnering organizations to connect to the community,” said Joy Ashley, executive director of Mainspring of Ephrata.

This isn’t just about getting school supplies (though that’s pretty awesome). It’s about:

  • Discovering downtown gems you might not have visited before
  • Supporting local businesses that make our community special
  • Building excitement for reading and learning
  • Creating memories that last long after school starts
  • Connecting with neighbors in the most delightful way possible
  • Kids reading story pages in storefront windows
  • Book signing moments with Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox
  • Families exploring downtown with their maps and backpacks
  • Evening festivities and live music on the plaza
πŸ“… Mark Your Calendar & Spread the Word!

No registration required – just show up ready for adventure! This free, family-friendly event exemplifies everything wonderful about downtown Ephrata and our commitment to community building.

Whether you’re getting your first-grader excited about school or your teenager engaged with local community events, Back to the Books delivers fun, learning, and connection in one perfectly packaged afternoon.

Ready to turn the page on summer and start a new chapter? We’ll see you downtown on August 2nd for the literary adventure of the season!

For more information about this event and our complete First Saturday programming, visit mainspringofephrata.org/events. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes fun! Learn how you can get involved with Mainspring’s community-building initiatives and help us create even more magical moments in downtown Ephrata.