KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) — Bell’s Eccentric Cafe and Beer Garden have begun hosting outdoor paint along nights in the summer, and their upcoming event is nearly sold out.

On July 31 at 7 p.m., participants in Bell’s Eccentric Cafe’s “Sunset Paint Along” will be painting their renditions of the garden’s sunset view with help from Bell’s employee and Kalamazoo artist, Maria Tripodis.

“Our co-worker, Maria — who is a fantastic artist — is teaching these and she’s doing a wonderful job with engagement,” Val Walters, customer experience manager for Bell’s Eccentric Cafe, said. “The final product is incredible.”

The outdoor beer garden at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. (Courtesy)
Artists attend the “Paint Your Pet Night” at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. (Courtesy)

Tickets for the event cost $20, and attendees are provided with painting supplies, a canvas and one drink ticket.

“Our hope is that we’ll be able to see the sun, weather depending,” Walters said. “It’ll be moved into our back room if there to be rain.”

Bell’s Brewery began their paint night series with a special “Paint Your Pet Night” in spring 2025, inviting guests honor their furry friends with an original painting.

Artists attend the “Paint Your Pet Night” at Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. (Courtesy)
The sunset at Bell’s Beer Garden and Eccentric Cafe in Kalamazoo. (Courtesy)

“Those have sold out almost instantly when we put them on sale,” Walters said. “Folks would come in with a photo of their pet and have a fun canvas interpretation of their pet at the end.”

An upcoming painting night has been called a “Two Hearted Paint Along,” and it will feature the memorable fish mascot of Bell’s Brewery popular beverage.

“That fish that is on the label has such a cool, storied history with a local Kalamazoo artist,” Walters said. “Folks will be able to take home a canvas of their interpretation of our beloved fish.”

Bell’s Two Hearted Paint Along will take place on Aug. 7 in conjunction with “Two Hearted Day” and the special release of the brewery’s new hazy IPA — called “Official.”