The nation’s first ever community-wide festival of laughter, Gilda’s LaughFest, has announced plans to kick off this year’s festival by inviting the community to help set another Guinness World Record on Thursday, March 6, for the most people wearing sunglasses in the dark. The Community Kickoff will take place at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids and will include giveaways, a photo booth, and all world record participants will receive official LaughFest sunglasses, which are being supplied by Baudville.  The world record attempt will be followed with opening night events at downtown restaurants and a free comedy preview show.

The current Guinness World Record was achieved in July 2012 by 1,642 participants at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Ill.

March 6 – LaughFest Kickoff

5:30/6 p.m. – pre-kickoff activities, line-up

7:00 p.m. – world record practice and preliminary instructions

7:15 p.m. – official attempt to break the existing record

Gilda’s Club provides support for children living with cancer or grief, and for in-school emotional health programs. Bring a SMILE to the face of a child and give us a “High Five” today. It’s sure to bring a smile to your face as well!  All proceeds go directly to the Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids and Lowell. Give us a “High Five” ($5 donation) any time between now and the end of Laughfest, and your “High Five” gift will be matched (up to $50,000) by five corporate partners – turning your $5 donation into $10! Our goal? To generate $100,000 – Click for more information or to purchase your HIGH FIVE buttons!