We're in the thick of summer and before you know it, those Autumn clouds will be rolling in. Time to get out and explore the neighborhoods, the brews, the culture and the music before those nightly walks require a heavier jacket.
August 2nd and 3rd
As with nearly every monthly blog we’ve put out, we like to mention when something is “brewing” in Tacoma. This time, it’s going to be a bit… strange. Held at Tacoma Brewing, Tacoma’s annual Strange Brew will be hosting over a dozen breweries who have put their heart into brewing some less than ordinary beers. Come check out how and why these breweries have decided to concoct their unusual flavors and enjoy some wood fired pizza or BBQ (depending on the day you come by). Of course you will be able to give each of the peculiar pints a taste, so bring an appetite and an open mind.
August 3rd
This yearly event is ready to rock & roll their 23rd year in a row! Proctor Arts Fest is one of Tacoma’s biggest art & music festivals and this year is no exception. Over 150 artisan vendors, three stages of live music, a book sale at Wheelock Library, a special kids fest with a family stage and a free movie at the Blue Mouse movie theater starting at noon. Come celebrate Tacoma arts in the historic Proctor District and don’t forget to visit the local businesses and check out the specials they have to offer!
August 4th and 15th
While we may not have a dog (yet!) this is still a pretty paw-some event! Bring your pooch down to Tacoma's Rhein Haus and come mingle with other furry friends and their owners while enjoying Yappy Hour deals. A special Pup Menu will be offered along with a free Mud Bay Biscuit Buffet, hosted by the neighboring Mud Bay store. Additionally, if you bring in a same day receipt from Mud Bay to Rhein Haus, you can enjoy a free pretzel, and vice versa, any same day receipt from Rhein Haus will earn your pup a ½ pound of dog treats. What a paw-some deal!
August 9th
Wright Park will be coming alive with Shakespeare in the Park’s performance of Twelfth Night. Come see the story of shipwrecks, siblings separated at sea, love and antics, all played out in true Shakespearean fashion with an all-male cast. This free event is open to families and if you miss it, check their page for their other park locations as they travel around the Puget Sound.
August 10th
Tacoma has had a long standing love affair with beer. When you throw in some live music and a lot of good food it's practically the perfect romance. Nestled between S 9th and S 11th on Broadway will be local musicians, 40+ Northwest vendors, food trucks, and enough beer and cider to make your head spin (hopefully no actual "spins"). With regular admission you receive six tasting tokens and a tasting glass to bring around to the myriad of breweries and cideries. Given the theme, this is a 21+ event, but your underage K-9 friends are welcome.
August 10th & 11th
Grab your muskets and bonnets and travel back in time to witness a recreation of the northwest fur trappers arriving to offer their fairs while challenging the fur traders to some spirited competition. Led by bagpipers, the brigade will arrive promptly at 11:30am in full garb. Visitors can explore the scene while speaking with living historians who will demonstrate heritage skills like fire starting and spinning wool. A 19th century fashion show along with Punch and Judy’s puppet show will give further insight into the times and traditions. As kids wander the event they will be able to collect beads for each new activity they try and receive a souvenir. See you there…er… then?
August 17th
Celebrate Island-style with the Asia Pacific Cultural Center at their 22nd annual Polynesian Luau. Featuring cultural dances and dishes from the islands of Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, Hawaii, Marshall Islands, Tokelau, New Zealand, Samoa and Guam, you’ll be sure to get your fill of food and fun. Visit the different cultural booths for dessert and education, and be sure to stick around for World renowned Fire Dancer Kap Te’o-tafiti.
August 17th
Come check out Tacoma’s Eastside at this free family friendly event! With two stages, 90 vendors, a huge chalk zone and four beer gardens, it will be easy to find something to suit you. As you wander through Food Truck Alley over to the free youth carnival, be sure to say hello to the Disney princesses and superheroes who are all excited to meet you and take photos! Additionally, the day will start at 10am with a free stuffed backpack give away hosted by Tacoma Christian Center. There are only 1,200 packs available, so if you or someone you know is in need for the school year, be sure to get there early! Check out their website for more details and opportunities to sign up as a vendor: http://www.mckinley253.com/
August 24th
After moving to the south side of 6th Ave, this has become one of our favorite events of the year. Kicking off with a parade in the morning, you’ll definitely want to see what the Hilltop Business Association has in store! An all-day car show will be hosted at one end of the street fair, complete with rat rods, hot rods and other classic cars. Then scattered between the three live music stages, you will find 100 food, craft, and art vendors, along with kid’s activities, games, and free health care opportunities. Kid and pup friendly, this free event is for everyone. We will definitely see you there!
August - Every Thursday
Live music is always a treat but imagine how much more you could enjoy it on a blanket with your best friend on a warm summer night. Every Thursday from 7pm - 8:30pm the Lakewood Pavilion will be hosting local artists from several genres, providing a little something for everyone! This years line-up includes:
Aug. 1: Dakota Poorman (Country) Aug. 8: Stay Grounded Band (Reggae)
Aug. 15: Justin Young Sax (Jazz)
Aug. 22: Candy Shoppe (Disco, Funk, Soul, Dance, Pop)
![received_621297234954080~2[20563]_edited](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/029e59_d216b0b4989d4417861595531cb2f5bb~mv2_d_1305_1604_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_190,h_230,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/received_621297234954080~2%5B20563%5D_edited.jpg)
