Saturday, October 3, 2026
Arts and crafts, bounce houses, face painting, food trucks, giant games, inflatable slides are all part of the second annual Long Beach Public Library Fun Fair at Kennedy Plaza.
Celebrating the conclusion of this year’s summer reading program, children and adults can enjoy a plethora of activities including photo ops, as well as and other vendors at the Aug. 17 event.
“Whether you spent the summer reading with us or just love a great time in the library officials noted in a statement. “Come celebrate the joy of reading, community, and summer Jakea Williamson, the library’s assistant director, described the fair as “fun and informative.”
“I would hope our current patrons appreciate it and have fun, and encourage new patrons to come out.” she said. “[New patrons can] get a library card, visit our programs, [and] use our space.”
Non Stop to Cairo, a music group known for its ska, hip hop and funk crossovers are expected to perform at 2 p.m., and DJ Mahtzie will be playing music throughout the event.
The “Tomato Contest,” a popular feature from last year’s fair, will also be making its return. Coined this year as “Tomatomania,” Interested library patrons received baby tomato plants, and were encouraged to plant them in the spring — and will now have the opportunity to literally show off the fruits of their labor.
Competitors will be judged on four different categories — biggest, smallest, prettiest, and ugliest tomatoes respectively. Those interested in participating may drop off their entries at the Garden Club table by 1 p.m. Winners will be announced an hour later.
The library’s summer reading program is an initiative designed to encourage children and adults alike to read and engage with the library during the summer months. Participants can submit completed summer reading postcards to the library’s reference desk to be eligible to win a prize. Winners will be drawn at the Fun Fair — attendance isn’t required.
The library’s fair is a collaboration with the City of Long Beach.
“We are proud to partner with the Long Beach Public Library on their annual Fun Fair in Kennedy Plaza.” Michael Reinhart, a city council member, said in a statement. “A deep sense of community is what makes our city so special. This event is yet another fantastic way to celebrate that spirit, right here in the center of our city.”
Kennedy Plaza is at 1 W Chester St, Long Beach, just north of Park Avenue.
For more information on the Fun Fair, go to LongBeachLibrary.org.
