July is here and Tacoma is full of fabulous things to do!
Celebrate the fourth with the family along Ruston Way, wander from porch to porch for live music throughout the 6th Ave neighborhood, head to Wright Park for a day of Pride as well as a culture fest full of food, dancing, and fun, jump back in time for some 19th century games, grab a chair and relax in Old Town for the summer concert series, eat and dance your way through Art on the Ave, finally find that vintage piece you've been looking for, or pack up the family for some outdoor movie fun.
We'll see you around, Tacoma!
Every Wednesday!
Pack a chair and a picnic and head down to Old Town for another fabulous summer concert series. Every Wednesday a local artist or group will grace the Old Town stage for an evening of sweet melodies in the summer air. The season starts on July 2nd, featuring the lovely Champaign Sunday, and later in the month you can hear from the incredible Kim Archer Band and the bubbly Jazz group, The Playtonics. Kick off your shoes and dance in the grass or just relax with the sun on your face and the tunes in your ears. The series extends through the end of August, so be sure to check out the full line-up!
July 4th
Tacoma Summer Blast is taking over Ruston Way! Enjoy a day of live entertainment, beer gardens, local vendors, food trucks, kids activities, and fireworks. Featuring three main locations, Dune Peninsula, Point Ruston, and Cummings Park, there will be plenty to see, eat, and do all day long. Main stages will be set up at Dune Peninsula and Cummings Park, featuring local artist and DJs, food trucks and vendors will be selling their fares at all three locations, and Cummings Park will be decked out as a Kid's Zone complete with bounce house, crafts, family friendly entertainment, food, and ice cream! Check out the Summer Blast Guide here for a full schedule of performances, vendors, and activities. And of course, the GIGANTIC fireworks show will start at 10pm over Commencement Bay! Happy Fourth!
July 12th
Tacoma Pride is headed back to where it all started and taking over Wright Park for a day of music, fun, food, and love. This family friendly event runs from 12pm - 6pm and will feature a main stage with queer and BIPOC entertainment, a beer garden, and local a makers market. Walk, bike, or ride down, as parking will be limited!
For those who are over 21, you can split your time between both the traditional festival AND the Tacoma Pride Block Party hosted by The Mix! There will be an outdoor CASH bar and drag performances all night, including the talented Trixie Mattel. A truly fabulous day awaits you!
July 12th & 13th
Porchfest is back and has expanded into a two-day, two-neighborhood event! This beloved community event's mission is to, "...celebrate Tacoma’s neighborhoods, and connect neighbors through a free, walkable, and accessible celebration of diverse live music performed on porches." So lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore both north and south of 6th Ave, as you jam and jive to a myriad of local musicians and musical styles. The festival kicks-off south of 6th Ave on the 12th at 12pm, with a break for the parade at 3pm. Then on the 13ths, head north for more jams until 6pm! This is a fully community supported event, so show some love if you can!
July 12th & 19th
The Grand Cinema is graciously presenting their fifth Summer Outdoor Movie Series, featuring a 30 foot inflatable screen and free popcorn (til it's gone!). Hosted by local organizations around Tacoma, this is a great free activity for the whole family. So pack up you chairs, snacks, and blankets and check out this month's line-up:
July 12th
Celebrate Pride at Wright Park, then stick around for the 9pm showing of Death Becomes Her.
July 19th
The Salishan Family Investment Center will be hosting this family friendly event with a 9pm showing of Wild Robot.
July 18th
Step back in time to 1855 for a fun-filled afternoon at the fort! Folks of all ages (yes, that means you grown-ups too!) are invited to join for some exciting games and lively music straight from the 19th century. Bring your competitive spirit, because there will be awesome prizes for the winners of the plate and cup race, sack race, and three-legged race. Plus, everyone is a winner when the candy cannon goes off! Pack a cozy blanket and a picnic, or swing by the Dawg Eats Dawg food truck for a delicious hot dog to enjoy under the shade. Be sure to leave some room for a scoop or two of delightful old-fashioned ice cream.
July 20th
Tacoma's largest street fair, Art on the Ave, is celebrating their 25th year! Over 200 artists and vendors will be taking over 6th Ave from Alder to State Street, selling their art, wares, treats, and sweets. Enjoy live performances all day long at one of the many stages, snag a drink or two at one of the beer gardens, and let the kiddos get their energy out in the Kid Zone. This beloved festival celebrates the talents of local artists, from music to print making, and pottery to culinary arts. Come dance and eat your way down the Ave!
July 26th & 27th
The MOSAIC Arts and Culture Festival is ready to transform Wright Park into a vibrant celebration of international cultures. This free, family-friendly community event highlights traditional dance, music, art, and food as it marks its 36th year under the beautiful canopy of trees in the park. Over the two-day festival, there will be performances from community groups on two different stages, food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines, and a vendor village featuring nearly 100 booths. The vendors will include multicultural artists and crafters, local small business owners, as well as Tacoma community groups, agencies, and services. Bring the whole family and celebrate the diverse tapestry of Tacoma!
July 26th
Are you on the hunt for the perfect Pyrex dish, a stylish '70s skirt, or a Regency mirror with a gold finish? If so, it’s time to explore Tacoma’s largest Vintage Yard Market! Several local vintage shops are coming together in one location to showcase their unique items. You’ll find clothing, collectibles, handmade goods, home décor, and much more—definitely something classic that catches your eye. Doors open promptly at 10 AM, and please note that parking is limited.
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