Group Looking to Construct Longest Lemonade Stand to Host Build Event

students and parents continue to raise funds and sell stands, hoping to create the world’s longest lemonade stand next month while they raise money for .

Mary Ann Hupp, a representative for the group trying to break the Guinness World Record, said Beverly students and parents have sold more than 250 stands for the challenge to be held Aug. 20 in Beverly Park. It has been cleared by representatives Guinness in the Longest Lemonade Stand category.

“For most kids, a lemonade stand is a first business venture,” said Pat Liebler, a Beverly parent who came up with the idea last spring. “We think our ongoing curriculum program is an engaging way to teach kids about entrepreneurialism using a concept that excites them.”

The group will host an assembly event from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 30 at , where residents can put together the four-by-six-feet-tall wooden lemonade stands designed by parent volunteer Keith Larson. The kits, which can be purchased for $50, come packaged in parts that can be put together using only a screwdriver.

On the day of the event, each lemonade stand will be connected by extensions to form the longest stand in the world. The record for the world’s longest lemonade stand is 2,571 feet, 6 inches, set June 6, 2010 in Satow, Germany.

While selling lemonade isn’t exactly the intent of the event — which will include a carnival-type atmosphere involving games and food — Liebler said each stand must offer lemonade for sale for around 10 seconds to set the record.

Project organizers have been selling stands through Birmingham and surrounding school districts, with individuals from 16 area schools purchasing stands. Kari Silcox, a parent volunteer, said the project’s intent is not only to teach children about entrepreneurship, but also raise funds for schools.

“Schools and school districts need to be creative and proactive in supporting their own cause and we think our lemonade stand is a worthwhile effort,” Silcox said.  

The group will also be hosting another build event from 5-9 p.m. Aug. 10 at Bolyard Lumber. During both events, group representatives will be on hand to help with the construction and decoration of your stands.

Stands can be purchased anytime at www.longestlemonadestand.com. Final pickup for the stands are Aug. 18 and participants should bring their completed stands to Beverly Park no later than 11:30 a.m. Aug. 20 to take place in the record-breaking attempt.