What to do in Tacoma September 2026
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September is here and packed with events across Tacoma! Catch a free family screening of Kung Fu Panda at the historic Blue Mouse Theater, savor incredible food and music at the Soulful Festival, celebrate rich cultures at the Tacoma Moon Festival and Indonesian Day, and view Washington's original 1889 State Constitution up close at the Washington State History Museum. You can also sip local vintages during the Stadium Art and Wine Walk, explore textile crafts at the Tacoma Fiber Fling, solve city-wide brainteasers with the Tacoma Puzzle Hunt, browse nautical goods at the waterfront Boathouse Market, or challenge your pace at Symphony Tacoma’s Beat Beethoven 5K. There is always something to do in Tacoma!
September 5th
Enjoy a free family movie at Tacoma’s historic Blue Mouse theater! Grab a tub of popcorn and a seat to view DreamWorks' Kung Fu Panda! Doors open at 10:30 AM and the show starts at 11:00 AM, come watch everyone’s favorite noodle-slurping, snack-loving panda transform into the Dragon Warrior on the big screen!
September 5th
Get ready for an incredible celebration of flavor, music, and community at the Soul Food Festival in downtown Tacoma! Hosted by the Black Night Market, this free, vibrant event brings together over 30 local food vendors showcasing everything from Southern classics and Creole dishes to global comfort foods made with heart. Beyond the amazing bites, you'll find live R&B and Neo-Soul performances, a kid’s zone, beer garden, DJs, and an artisan marketplace celebrating local BIPOC creators. Come down to connect and eat food made with the soul that brings us all together.
September 12th
The 14th Annual Tacoma Moon Festival is right around the corner at Chinese Reconciliation Park! Inspired by the East Asian Mid-Autumn Festival, this free, family-friendly celebration honors joyous harvests and family reunions while showcasing Tacoma’s diverse multicultural heritage. Kicking off with an exciting opening performance by the Mak Fai Lion Dance Association, the day features a packed mainstage schedule with everything from Island Reggae and Cambodian classical dance to Scandinavian folk music and Bollywood dancers. Guests can explore delicious food trucks and artisan vendors, welcome newly naturalized citizens during a special ceremony, and stick around for the magical finale, a Lantern Parade led by the Moon Princess.
September 12th
Discover the flavors, music, and beauty of Indonesia at this year’s Indonesian Day festival. This free and family-friendly event is generously hosted by the Asian Pacific Cultural Center located on South Tacoma Way. Enjoy traditional performances of Indonesian Dance and music, authentic flavors from local vendors, and a creative cultural craft for the little ones. Stick around for local vendors and lots of Indonesian inspired raffle gifts. Semoga beruntung (May you be lucky)!
September 17th
History buffs and curious minds, get ready for a rare treat! For one day only, the Washington State History Museum is bringing the original 1889 Constitution of the State of Washington out of its secure vault and putting it on public display. Presented in partnership with the Office of the Secretary of State and the Washington State Archives, this special civic engagement event offers visitors an incredible chance to connect face-to-face with a foundational piece of local history, chat with archives staff, and explore fascinating statehood artifacts. It's an inspiring, hands-on way to celebrate our state's rich story and heritage, definitely an event you won't want to miss!
September 19th
Snag your commemorative wine glass and get ready to stroll through the Stadium Art and Wine Walk! Make "sip stops" along the way at the 16 local businesses featuring pop-up tastings from top Washington wineries, like Dahlman Cellars, Hedges Family Estate, and TruthTeller Winery. Enjoy your vino alongside delicious food options from neighborhood spots. Tickets are $30 in advance and include a you tasting glass and tote bag for stocking up on your favorite bottles. The walk begins at check-in located at First Presbyterian Church (20 Tacoma Ave S). Grab your tickets early before this popular 21+ event sells out, and remember to leave pets and kids at home for a relaxing day of sipping, strolling, and supporting local businesses!
September 26th
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter, picking up your first pair of knitting needles, or simply curious to try something new, the Tacoma Fiber Fling is the perfect place for you. Drop by this free, family-friendly event to watch live fiber arts demonstrations, admire beautiful textile displays, and connect with fellow creators. Hosted by the Job Carr Cabin Museum at Old Town Park, this event lets you enjoy local craft vendors and live music while exploring the world of textiles.
September 26th
Explore Downtown while testing your skills at Tacoma Puzzle Hunt! Combining brainteasers, team-building, and hands-on problem solving this event uses a wide range of life-sized puzzle types focused on Tacoma’s community and unique environment. Think of it like an escape room in your own backyard, except you don’t just survive but win $500! Registration is free, so get your team together today!
September 26th
Looking for a fun weekend outing by the water? Head down to the waterfront for the Boathouse Market at the Point Defiance Marina! Admission is completely free, making it the perfect spot to gather, stroll, and enjoy the South Sound views. You can browse a fantastic selection of handcrafted, nautical, and marine-themed goods while supporting local artisan vendors right on the docks. Who knows, you may even befriend a new octopus buddy… made of yarn.
September 26th
Lace up your running shoes and test your pace against a timeless masterpiece at Symphony Tacoma’s Beat Beethoven 5K! Held in Tacoma's historic Wright Park, this fun and unique event challenges participants to finish the 5k course before the final notes of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony ring out (roughly 30 minutes). Successful runners earn free concert tickets, and finisher medals are waiting for everyone who joins in on the musical fitness fun! Can you cross the finish line before the final da-da-da-dahhhh?
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