Whether you need family friendly outings or unique date night options, I've curated a list of exciting events happening near you in the South Sound that will keep you busy all month long! From low key gatherings to live music and after school programs, there are exciting experiences waiting for you and your loved ones this April!
APRIL MOM'S NIGHT AT THE POD WORKS - SOURDOUGH PARTY
Calling all moms and babes in arms! Join us at The Pod Works for Mom's Night, an opportunity to connect with other mothers in our community over snacks and beverages. This month, we're collaborating with Colby Hunt for an exploration of all things sourdough. Sample delicious bread, learn about the sourdough mother process, and even take home your own starter!
Date: Friday, April 5
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: THE POD WORKS, 7024 27th St W Ste A, University Place
LIVE MUSIC AT KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE
Live bands in a wide variety of genres play on the Kimball Stage every Friday night. Doors open at 6pm, and the show goes from 7-9 pm. Enjoy a bite to eat, one of the rotating beers on tap, a glass of wine, or coffee – of course.
Dates: Friday, April 5, 12, 19, 26
Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE, 6659 Kimball Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
ASIA PACIFIC CULTURAL CENTER'S ANNUAL KHMER NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
Join us for a vibrant celebration honoring Cambodian culture and traditions at the Asia Pacific Cultural Center's Annual Khmer New Year Celebration. Experience traditional dance performances, colorful processions, and culinary delights, including the opportunity to learn to make Amok Chicken and Banh Cha-nuet Dessert. This event fosters cross-cultural understanding and unity, bringing together communities from across the region.
Date: Saturday, April 6th
Time: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Location: STAR CENTER, 3873 S 66th St, Tacoma WA, 98409
BRICK BY BRICK LEGO CLUB
Join us every other week for Brick by Brick LEGO Club! Build a LEGO creation around the monthly theme, or free build to your heart's content!
Dates: Saturdays, April 6 and April 20
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: MOORE BRANCH, 215 South 56th Street, Tacoma WA 98408
More info: All ages, free. No registration required. Please leave your personal LEGOs at home.
YOGA @ TAM WITH TULADHARA
Join us for Yoga @ TAM in partnership with Tuladhara Yoga! This upcoming 60-minute yoga practice in TAM's main event space is inspired by art in the collection and the importance of community connection. Feel rested and restored with a mellow flow led by Alycia Patterson. After class, enjoy a mimosa included in the ticket price.
Date: Sunday, April 7
Time: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Location: TACOMA ART MUSEUM, 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
More info: All ages, admission is FREE for TAM members and $20 for non-members
TACOMA SUNDAY MARKET
Explore the South Sound's favorite curated marketplace at the Tacoma Sunday Market. Discover vintage clothing, handmade goods, sneakers, designers, food, drinks, music, and more! This fun and inclusive event celebrates diversity and small businesses while providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Date: Sunday, April 7
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: COURTHOUSE SQUARE, 1102 A Street, Tacoma, WA 98402
STORYTIME FOR LITTLE SPARK PLUGS
ACM welcomes toddlers and their caregivers for our brand new, in-person Storytime for Little Spark Plugs! Join us to meet new friends, enjoy interactive stories and action songs, and play in ACM's hands-on Family Zone. This program will take place in-person at the Museum on the first Tuesday of every month.
Date: Tuesday, April 2
Time: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Location: LEMAY - AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM, 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
TUESDAYS AT THE BAY
Stop by Bay Terrace each Tuesday for one of our weekly programs, or a cup of coffee! Tuesdays at the Bay includes free employment and education resources for adults and teens at “The Hub,” the Fresh Express Farmers Market, Community Café, and Club Z Tutoring for K-12 kids and teens. You don't have to live at Bay Terrace to attend, all are welcome!
Date: Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Location: BAY TERRACE, 2550 S G St, Tacoma, WA 98405
UP AND ATOM: LIBRARY PROGRAM
Immerse yourself in the excitement of Up and Atom STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) Days, presented in collaboration with the Tacoma Public Library. Engage in hands-on STEAM and craft activities, where children aged 5-12 can explore the world of artists, learn about their creations, and unleash their creative skills by crafting their own artwork. All materials are provided, and everyone is encouraged to join this inclusive and entertaining event!
Date: Thursday, April 4
Time: 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: TACOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY SOUTH TACOMA BRANCH, 3411 S 56th St, Tacoma, WA 98409
TEEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Are you a teen or know someone looking to get involved, have some fun, and make a difference? Join the Teen Advisory Committee! Our Teen Advisory Committee is a committee of local Middle and High School students that partner with PenMet Parks to help plan and execute events and other recreation opportunities for local teens! The Teen Advisory Committee meets twice monthly on Wednesdays. Please contact Brycen Toney to get involved! (253) 649-0351 or btoney@penmetparks.org
Date: Wednesdays, April 3 and April 17
Time: 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Location: PENMET PARKS OFFICE, 5717 Wollochet Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335
MONTHLY MILITARY SPOUSE COFFEE HOUR
In partnership with Blue Star Families, join us for coffee and pastries, and feel free to bring your own, while you mingle and network with other military spouses!
Date: Thursday, April 4
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 AM
Location: THE STEVEN A. COHEN MILITARY FAMILY CLINIC, Valley Cities' Boeing Community Room, 6103 Mount Tacoma Drive Southwest, Lakewood, WA 98499
More info: Free.
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD NIGHTS AT TAM
Tacoma Art Museum is open late and FREE to the community every Thursday, 5 – 8 pm! Neighborhood Nights offer us the space to build programs with community partners, artists, scholars, and entertainers. Stop by TAM Cafe for a bite or a drink before enjoying exhibitions, artmaking in TAM Studio, or a special program. Thursday evenings at the Tacoma Art Museum are the perfect time to bring your friends, family, or a date to enjoy art. Experience YOUR Museum.
Date: Thursdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25
Time: 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: TACOMA ART MUSEUM, 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
More info: All ages, admission is FREE
FIRST THURSDAY TEEN MOVIE NIGHT
The first Thursday of the month is teen movie night at University Place! Enjoy free snacks and a showing of Five Nights at Freddy's. Down on his luck and running out of options, Mike Schmidt agrees to take a job as a night shift security guard at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza. However, he quickly realizes that things aren't quite as they seem at Freddy's when the animatronic creatures at the restaurant come alive, hungry for revenge. Rated PG-13, runtime 110 minutes.
Date: Thursday, April 4
Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: UNIVERSITY PLACE LIBRARY, Meeting Room, 3609 Market Place West, Suite 100, University Place, WA, 98466
More info: Suitable for teens (ages 13-18)
TACOMA SEWING CLUB & CRAFTING WORKSHOP
Join Sew Club Tacoma, a "book club style" sewing club designed to grow Tacoma's sewing community. All sewing enthusiasts are welcome from every level of the craft in this inclusive, safe, and encouraging space. Meetings on the first and third Thursdays of each month include choosing sewing patterns, discussing sewing processes, and showcasing creations. Participants can choose suggested designs or their own projects. During meetings at Tacoma Art Museum's Library Space (2nd floor), attendees share their makes, seek guidance, and discuss sewing processes. Socializing and pattern selection occur on the first Thursday of each month, while beginners receive project assistance on third Thursdays.
Date: Thursday, April 4 and 18
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Location: TACOMA ART MUSEUM, Library Space (2nd floor), 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
OPEN MIC AT KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE
Join us for our weekly Open Mic night where you can showcase your talents or simply enjoy the performances. Sign-ups start at 5:30 PM. See you there!
Date: Thursday, April 4
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE, 6659 Kimball Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
THE REPTILE LADY - MEET AND SKETCH
Join April Jackson for an up close and personal tour of the reptile kingdom with a fun twist for those who want to put their artistic skills to the test! For ages 12 and up! Registration Required!
Date: Friday, April 5
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 PM
Location: UNIVERSITY PLACE LIBRARY, Meeting Room, 3609 Market Pl W, University Place, WA 98466
DANCE FLASHBACK PRESENTS: 2010'S DANCE FLASHBACK
Dance to all your favorite music videos from the 2010s featuring artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, Harry Styles, and more. Join us for a night of nostalgic fun upstairs in the ballroom with music on our giant screen! 21+
Date: Friday, April 5
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: MCMENAMINS SPANISH BALLROOM, 565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
PROCTOR FARMERS' MARKET
Join us at the weekly Proctor Farmers' Market, presented by the City of Tacoma and Pierce County's Agriculture Program. Enjoy live music and browse a variety of local produce, crafts, and more. Free to attend and suitable for all ages!
Date: Saturdays, April 6, 13, 20, 27
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: North 27th and North Proctor Streets, Tacoma, WA 98401
GIRL SCOUT BADGE DAY @ ACM
Brownie and Junior Scouts are invited to join educators at LeMay – America's Car Museum for an exciting full-day event to work through all the requirements for the Automotive Design, Engineering, and Manufacturing badges. Scouts will also have the opportunity to tour the Museum and participate in a hands-on basic automotive maintenance workshop. Registration includes all materials needed to complete the badges and lunch. Adult supervision is required, with one adult for every 5 Scouts. Accompanying adults within a 5:1 ratio will be admitted free of charge.
Date: Sunday, April 7
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: LEMAY – AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM, 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
More info: Registration fee $35
CO-WORKING WITH KIDS
Join us for weekly kid-friendly co-work sessions at The Pod Works. While the kids engage in nearby activities, parents can focus on networking, brainstorming, and receiving feedback from peers. Open to members and day pass holders with an office reservation. First-time guests attend for free.
Date: Monday, April 8
Time: 4:25 PM - 5:25 PM
Location: THE POD WORKS, 7024 27th Street W STE A, University Place
BABY & TOT MEET UP/EARLY LEARNERS
Join us for Baby & Tot Meet Ups with Early Learners at The Pod Works. Enjoy structured circle time for early learners at 9:40 am, followed by open play and coffee with friends from 10:00 am to 11:40 am. Free for members and first-time guests. Day passes and donations welcome. Registration required.
Date: Tuesday, April 9
Time: 9:40 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: THE POD WORKS, 7024 27th Street West, University Place, WA, 98466
PODCAST CAFÉ
Join our monthly group to create your very own podcast from concept to download. Led by Digital Media Lab instructor John Hargis, this gathering is open to podcasters and storytellers ages 12 and up. Topics covered include setting up your recording space, developing compelling content, and analyzing popular podcasts.
Date: Tuesday, April 9
Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Online
Link
HOMESCHOOL DAY
Join us for a hands-on day at LeMay – America's Car Museum designed specifically for homeschoolers! Participate in design challenges, create your own cars, enjoy self-guided tours, and explore galleries and activity stations at your own pace. Pack a lunch and stay for the whole day or drop-in for an hour—it's up to you!
Date: Tuesday, April 10
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: LEMAY – AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM, 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
More info: $9/child 3+ (in advance), $12/child 3+ (at the door) | $6/adult
TOYS FROM THE PAST
Join us for a drop-in craft workshop where children can create toys from the past. Explore heritage toys and games from the museum's teaching collection. Presented by Job Carr Museum, funded by Tacoma Creates, and hosted by Tacoma Public Library.
Date: Wednesday, April 11
Time: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: TACOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY WHEELOCK BRANCH, 3722 North 26th Street, Tacoma, WA
Link
FAMILY & BABYSITTERS MEET UP (FORMERLY BABYSITTERS CLUB)
Are you a parent in search of the ideal babysitter to care for your precious little ones? Perhaps you're a caring and experienced babysitter eager to find the perfect family to work with? Look no further! Join us for a fun and unique event that brings parents and babysitters together for a delightful day of bonding, open playtime, and circle introductions.
Date: Friday, April 12
Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: THE POD WORKS, 7024 27th Street West, University Place, WA, 98466
THANKS, IT'S THRIFTED!
Join Tacoma Historical Society for a discussion on the history of second-use clothing, from used clothing peddlers in Europe to the advent of Thrift Stores in America and the modern popularity of Thrifting in pop culture & fashion. Tips and tricks for thrifting and second-use clothing in Tacoma will also be provided.
Date: Friday, April 12
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: TACOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 406 Tacoma Avenue South, Tacoma, WA
PNW COUNTRY SHOWCASE
Enjoy an evening of country music featuring performances by Saltwater Sky, Santa Poco, and Leah Justine. Experience the rich sounds of PNW country music talent, ranging from soulful ballads to energetic performances.
Date: Friday, April 12
Time: 7:00 PM Doors, 8:00 PM Show
Location: MCMENAMINS SPANISH BALLROOM, 565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
CRAFT SATURDAY: FLOWER PLANTING
Explore the museum and receive a FREE children's activity kit to plant and grow spring flowers. Craft Saturday make and take kits include all materials and instructions needed for the activity.
Date: Saturday, April 13
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: JOB CARR CABIN MUSEUM, 2350 N 30th St, Tacoma, WA 98403
PLANT SWAP AT UW TACOMA PRAIRIE LINE TRAIL AND TOLLEFSON PLAZA
Join us for a fun-filled Plant Swap where plant enthusiasts can come together to exchange small to medium-sized plants, cuttings, starts, seeds, and pots. Let's cultivate a vibrant green community and spread the joy of gardening. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your collection, there's something for everyone at the Plant Swap!
Date: Saturday, April 13th
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: UW TACOMA PRAIRIE LINE TRAIL AND TOLLEFSON PLAZA, 1900 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402
SOUTH SOUND SUSTAINABILITY EXPO
Explore sustainability and how to make a positive impact in the South Sound community by connecting with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable practices.
Date: Saturday, April 13
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: UW TACOMA CAMPUS AND TOLLEFSON PLAZA, 1900 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402
HIVE CO TACOMA GRAND OPENING
Join us for the grand opening of Hive Co Tacoma! Enjoy ribbon cutting, mocktails by Aafiya Lounge, treats, giveaways, discounts, kiddo activities, "meet the maker" moments, and more. Free parking available.
Date: Saturday, April 13
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: HIVE CO., 5436 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA, 98409
REST WORKSHOP WITH STEPH & MAGGIE
Join Stephanie Hansen for a 2-hour REST Workshop, a fusion of Restorative and Yin Yoga with Sound healing to support deep and meaningful rest.
Date: Saturday, April 13th
Time: 1:00 PM
Location: ORCHARD ROOTS YOGA & FITNESS, 3210 SE Mile Hill Dr, Port Orchard, WA 98366
PUBLISHING 101 WORKSHOP WITH CHRIS/TINA VEGA
Join author, entrepreneur, and BCP founder Chris/tina Vega for a half-day, in-person workshop outlining the main components of book publishing for those interested in self-publication. Learn about different publishing models, essential components of book production, suggested timelines and budgets, and receive a workshop zine with reference material for continued publishing education.
Date: Saturday, April 13th
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: 1901 Jefferson St, Office #105, Tacoma, WA
BEBOP TO HIP HOP WITH KAREEM KANDI WORLD ORCHESTRA
Explore the evolution of music from the 1940s bebop era to 1960s funk/rock and modern-day hip hop. Join the Kareem Kandi World Orchestra for a dynamic performance showcasing the connections between these diverse genres throughout history.
Date: Saturday, April 13
Time: 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Location: TACOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY MOORE BRANCH, 215 South 56th St., Tacoma, WA
TAM GALA 2024: MOMENTUM
Join us for an evening of philanthropy and community at the Momentum Gala 2024. Celebrate Tacoma Art Museum's commitment to authenticity and innovation inspired by Momentum: New Works in the Collection. Enjoy fine dining, exclusive auction items, and surprises surrounded by world-class art.
Date: Friday, April 13
Time: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: TACOMA ART MUSEUM, 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
UNIVERSITY PLACE TEEN COUNCIL
Join the University Place Teen Council to meet new people, have fun, and earn volunteer hours! As a member, you'll help plan library programs, create displays, and provide feedback on existing offerings. Enjoy games, crafts, and snacks while shaping the future of the library community. Open to teens ages 13-18.
Date: Thursday, April 18
Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: UNIVERSITY PLACE LIBRARY, Meeting Room, 3609 Market Place West, Suite 100, University Place, WA, 98466
DROP IN TECH HELP
Receive assistance with basic computer skills, email, navigating apps, iOS devices, android devices, resumes, cover letters, and more. No registration required. Every 3rd Thursday of the month from September 2023 to April 2024.
Date: Thursday, April 18
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: TACOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY MOORE BRANCH, 215 South 56th Street, Tacoma WA 98408
Link
ORCHESTRAL SHOWCASE: DE FALLA, STRAUSS, GILLIE, MÁRQUEZ, KODÁLY
Experience an enchanting evening of classical music featuring works by De Falla, Strauss, Gina Gillie, Arturo Márquez, and Kodály. From Spanish folk melodies to Latin ballroom rhythms, this orchestral showcase promises a diverse and captivating musical journey.
Date: Friday, April 19
Time: 7:30pm - 9:45pm
Location: PANTAGES THEATER, 901 Broadway, Tacoma, Washington
FAMILY STEAM DAYS: PLANT POWER
Explore automotive design by creating 3D sculptures of iconic vehicles from the Museum's collection with our Museum educators. On the third Saturday of each month, families can spend quality time together exploring activities available in the Education Studio and Family Zone. Family STEAM Days are free for ACM Members and included with Museum admission. Museum visitors age 18 and under receive FREE admission on Family STEAM Days.
Date: Saturday, April 20
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: LEMAY – AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM, 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
PERCUSSION FAMILY TOUR WITH SYMPHONY TACOMA PERCUSSION QUARTET
Join the Symphony Tacoma Percussion Quartet for an exciting exploration of percussion instruments, featuring beloved musical pieces from "The Pink Panther" and "Mr. Brown Can Moo." Perfect for kids and percussion enthusiasts alike!
Date: Sunday, April 21
Time: 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Location: SCHNEEBECK CONCERT HALL, 1567-1625 N Union Ave, Tacoma, WA
HOTEL CALIFORNIA TRIBUTE CONCERT
Experience the timeless music of The Eagles as HOTEL CALIFORNIA takes you on a journey through their iconic hits. From "Hotel California" to "Take It Easy," "Desperado," and more, immerse yourself in the legendary sound of The Eagles recreated with unmatched authenticity. HOTEL CALIFORNIA has captivated audiences worldwide with their dedication to preserving the spirit of the original band, making them the premier tribute act for Eagles fans everywhere.
Date: Friday, April 26
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
Location: RIALTO THEATRE, 310 S 9th St, Tacoma, WA 98402
ERAS: DANCE THROUGH THE DECADES
Dance through the decades from the Nineties to Now with DJ Gregarious and VJ Disorder. Experience a top-40 time machine featuring all the dance hits from each era. Dance an entire lifetime in one night as every hour brings a block of mega hits and iconic videos with defining dance crazes.
Date: Friday, April 26
Time: 8:30 pm doors, 9:00 pm show
Location: MCMENAMINS SPANISH BALLROOM, 565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
ALMOST, MAINE
Welcome to Almost, Maine, where love blooms in unexpected ways under the northern lights. Experience the joys and complexities of romance as the residents of Almost find themselves falling in and out of love in this charming play.
Dates: Friday, April 26 - Sunday, May 12
Location: TACOMA LITTLE THEATRE, 210 N I St, Tacoma, WA
BILINGUAL WALK THROUGH HILLTOP: TREES, CITIES, AND PEOPLE
Join Sarah Low and Alejandro Fernández for a bilingual walk from Grant Park to a reservoir, exploring the relationship between trees, cities, and people. Learn about the presence and absence of trees, their benefits, and the importance of cultivating native plants. Gain a new perspective on your neighborhood streets!
Date: Saturday, April 27
Time: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location: GRANT PARK, 2338 S Grant Ave, Tacoma, WA
SERGEI PROKOFIEV'S PETER AND THE WOLF
Experience the classic tale of Peter and his animal friends through music performed by the full orchestra and a narrator. Each character is represented by a different instrument or group of instruments, making it a perfect introduction to the orchestra for children.
Date: Saturday, April 28
Time: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: SCHNEEBECK CONCERT HALL, 1567-1625 N Union Ave, Tacoma, WA