CADILLAC – Friday marks the release of the fourth season of ‘Stranger Things’, and to celebrate, the Cadillac Wexford Public Library is throwing a party. The event is for ages 12 and up and will run from 4-6 p.m.

After a long wait of years of COVID-related setbacks, the fourth season of Netflix’s original sci-fi series will finally be streaming, and it’s no secret that fans of the series are excited.

To prepare for the new season and bring lovers of the show together, the Cadillac Wexford Public Library is hosting a ‘Stranger Things’ themed event.

Although “Stranger Things” isn’t a piece of literature, library program coordinator Emily Thompson said it still tells a compelling story. For those who haven’t watched or heard of the show, the plot centers around a group of 1980s kids who come together to defeat the monsters of Dungeons & Dragons.

“It’s still something we can all step into and maybe take a break from the world around us,” Thompson said. “And the ‘Stranger Things’ franchise does a really good job of taking you to another world, so that’s just another story.”

The event officially starts at 4 p.m., but Thompson said it’s on a walk-in basis, so there’s no need to be there from the start. Due to licensing hurdles, she said they won’t air any episodes, but the evening’s activities will help get everyone excited for the release.

As a nod to main character Eleven’s love of Eggo waffles, a waffle bar will be available with plenty of topping options. There will also be several crafts held, including one where attendees can embroider a Demogorgon, the main villain of the show.

Also on the program for the evening, a photo booth with a decor on the theme of “Stranger Things” and puzzle games.

“So just kind of a group event to hang out with other ‘Stranger Things’ geeks,” Thompson said. “You know, fuel up for the weekend.”

The library will also set up “watch-to-go” baskets for people to take with them to use when streaming the new season.

Season four of “Stranger Things” will be released in two parts, and Thompson said they’ll be setting up an activity for that release as well.

Thompson said the event is a great way to get the message across that the library isn’t just about reading, it’s also a place to explore all the different pop culture niches. There have been other movie and TV-themed programs at the library, as well as unique extracurricular groups, like the Dungeons and Dragons club.

“Whether you want to come in and use our free Wi-Fi, or check out different books and fanbases,” Thompson said. “I think we’ve all published ‘Star Wars,’ or tried. We kind of try to celebrate everything.

Hosting a “Stranger Things” launch party is also a way to bring community members of all ages together to connect around a series they all love. However, Thompson said they will avoid all series spoilers, so the event is also open to new watchers.

Additional library programs are held weekly, and information can be found on the Cadillac Wexford Public Library Facebook page and website.