Looking for fun and engaging activities this July in Tacoma? As the South Sound Magazine's voted best realtor, I've compiled a list of must-attend events that cater to everyone’s interests. Whether you’re planning family outings, kid-friendly adventures, or a memorable date night, you’ll find a variety of exciting options here. From vibrant community festivals to live music performances and enriching summer programs, discover the best experiences Tacoma has to offer this month! Dive into our guide and make the most of your July with these fantastic local events.
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: Monday, July 1 - Wednesday, July 31
Time: 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Location: TACOMA PUBLIC LIBRARY, Multiple Branches (check link for locations)
TACOMA SMALL BIZ BINGO
To celebrate the spirit of our community, we invite you to join us in a delightful adventure that we hope is the first of many adventures to come. We call this adventure Tacoma Small Business BINGO. It's not your typical game; it's a journey of discovery and exploration that will take you across Tacoma, WA and back again. In the coming weeks, we will share more information about how you can get your own BINGO ticket and the details behind how you, your friends and your family can embark on a month-long quest to uncover the hidden gems, the local treasures, and the stories behind each local business. As you support businesses big and small, you'll not only stand a chance to win exciting prizes but also forge lasting memories and relationships... while hopefully discovering some new-to-you spots along the way. Let's go, Tacoma!
Date: Monday, July 1 - Wednesday, July 31
Location: Tacoma, Multiple Locations (check link for all participating locations)
MCCOY KIDS SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
Introducing the first-ever McCoy Kids Summer Reading Challenge. The challenge is simple. Pick-up a FREE reading challenge card in our shop beginning Saturday, June 22. Read 25 new-to-you books throughout the Summer. Your Library is a great source for books to keep this challenge free AND you can participate in their challenge at the same time! Get an adult to VERIFY the book you read and you or them can write the title in the spot on the card. Redeem your FULL challenge card by August 31 for a FREE prize! All completed challenge cards will entered to win ONE $25 gift card to our shop, too! No purchase is necessary to enter and participate. You and your adult are on your honor for playing (no cheating, please). Cards must be picked up and redeemed in person at McCoy Kids. One card per kiddo ages 4-14.
Date: Now Until Saturday, August 31
Location: 504 S 11th St, Unit A, 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.
Date: Tuesday, July 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, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Location: BAY TERRACE, 2550 S G St, Tacoma, WA 98405
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET
With a wide variety of vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delicious snacks, this market is the perfect destination for a weekend outing. Explore the stalls and discover unique items while supporting local farmers and artisans. The Lakewood Farmers Market is more than just a shopping destination; it's a community gathering spot where friends and families can connect and enjoy live music, activities for children, and food trucks.
Date: Tuesdays, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 2:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: FORT STEILACOOM PARK, 8714 87th Ave SW, Lakewood, WA 98498
GIG HARBOR FLOWER FARMERS MARKET
We are a collection of Gig Harbor flower farmers and growers. We sell at our public flower market Spring through Fall. Check our website for updates!
Date: Wednesdays, July 3, 11, 17, 25
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Uptown Pavilion, 4701 Point Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
SUMMER TEEN SOCIAL CLUB @ UP LIBRARY
Come hang out in an inclusive space with snacks, crafts, games, and more! July 3rd - Summer Camp Crafts: Make patches, friendship bracelets, and more. July 11th - Games, games, games!: Board games, Nintendo Switch games, card games, and Pictionary. July 17th - Sew basic: learn basic sewing and mending techniques. July 25th - Games, games, games!: Board games, Nintendo Switch games, card games, and Pictionary. Ages 13-18 are invited. Snacks are provided courtesy of the Friends of the University Place Library.
Date: Wednesdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: UNIVERSITY PLACE LIBRARY, Meeting Room, 3609 Market Place West, Suite 100, University Place, WA, 98466
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, July 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.
MOVIES ON THE LANES AT OCEAN5
Join us on Thursdays in July for a family-friendly movie experience! Beat the summer heat (or escape the rain) and enjoy popular movie series while bowling. With no school, it’s the perfect daytime outing! Grab your friends, lace up those bowling shoes, and settle in for a fun movie matinee. Don't forget to grab some lunch or maybe even a little popcorn! See you there! 📅 11am -3pm(ish). July 11th - Minions series. July 18th - Shrek series. July 25th - Toy Story series.
Date: Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25
Location: OCEAN5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
JULY MOM'S NIGHT AT THE POD WORKS
Join us at The Pod Works for Mom's Night, the first Friday of every month! This event is for moms and babes in arms, an opportunity to enjoy some adult time and connect with other mothers in our community over snacks and beverages. Please bring a snack or beverage to share. Theme - 90s Nostalgia Night. Mom's night is free for members, donations to our pod family financial aid programs are requested from non members, however, first visits are always free.
Date: Friday, July 5
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: THE POD WORKS, 7024 27th Street 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: Fridays, July 5, 12, 19, 26
Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE, 6659 Kimball Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
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, July 6, 13, 20, 27
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: North 27th and North Proctor Streets, Tacoma, WA 98401
OPEN STUDIO HOURS JULY 2024
This spring and summer, we're trying something new: we're holding open studio hours every first Saturday of each month, starting in April. While visiting the BCP studio, you can shop our growing selection of new and used books (the majority of which are from small, local presses), (co)work on your creative projects or meet/mingle with other creatives in the community.
Date: Saturday, July 6
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: BLUE CACTUS PRESS STUDIO, 1901 Jefferson Ave Office 105, Tacoma, WA 98402
EXPLORE THE SHORE
Ever wondered what it's like to hold a tiny ocean crab in the palm of your hand? Find out at Owen Beach in Tacoma's beautiful Point Defiance Park! Join our beach walk naturalists and stroll along the beach at low tide to learn about the animals that live there. Explore the Shore is a fun and exciting opportunity to learn about the biological diversity of our local beaches. Meet on the beach near the Owen Beach parking lot ten minutes before the start time to register at the event tent. Wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet from rocky beaches with barnacles, wear weather appropriate clothing, and bring sunscreen. Free. No RSVP needed.
Date: Saturday, July 6 and Sunday, July 21
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Owen Beach, 5605 N. Owen Beach Rd., Tacoma, WA 98407
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, July 6 and June 20
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: MOORE BRANCH, 215 South 56th Street, Tacoma WA 98408
More info: All ages, free. No registration is required. Please leave your LEGOs at home.
COFFEE WITH THE BIRDS: EAGLES
(Age 16+) Join us for Dancing Goats coffee as we discuss a special topic about birds found in Point Defiance, followed by a bird walk through the park. Sharpen your birdwatching skills and socialize with other birders. Free. Registration required. Coffee is complimentary, please bring your own thermos. All skill levels welcome. Bring binoculars and weather appropriate attire. Participants must be able to travel on unpaved, uneven trails. Meet at the Fort Nisqually Picnic Shelter in Point Defiance Park.
Date: Sunday, July 7, 2024
Time: 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Location: Fort Nisqually, 5519 Five Mile Dr, Tacoma, WA 98407
BOTANICAL GARDEN TOUR AT POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM
Cacti. Bamboo. Leaves, trunks, flowers. Did you know the Zoo is also a botanical garden, home to hundreds of varieties of plants from decorative to functional? Zookeepers use some of the plant growth, such as banana leaves and bamboo shoots, as food or skill-building tools for the animals. The plants also create a stunning botanical paradise.
Take a botanical garden tour with our horticulturalist Bryon Jones and be awed by the power of plants at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.
Date: Sunday, July 7
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUM, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407
TACOMA SUNDAY MARKET
Event Description: 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: Sundays, July 7 and July 21
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: 917 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
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, July 9
Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Location: Online
Link
TACOMA FARMERS' MARKET ON BROADWAY
Tacoma Farmers Market creates vibrant marketplaces where local farms, small businesses, and organizations connect directly with the community.
Date: Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: 925 Broadway, Tacoma WA 98402
GIG HARBOR WATERFRONT FARMERS' MARKET
The Waterfront Farmers Market, located in downtown Gig Harbor, provides our community with fresh, locally grown farm products and specialty foods. At the same time, we are providing our local area growers with a community-supported venue for their crops and products. Give back to your community. Eat fresh and local.
Date: Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25
Time: 1:00 - 6:00 PM
Location: SKANSIE BROTHERS PARK, 3211 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
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, July 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
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: Thursdays, July 11, 18, 25
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: KIMBALL COFFEEHOUSE, 6659 Kimball Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
SUMNER'S MUSIC OFF MAIN WITH VICTIMS OF LOVE
Join us for Victims of Love. A Tribute to the Eagles, the band is comprised of 5 Seattle-area music veterans who formed a project to give anyone within earshot the opportunity to hear those Eagles songs they love played live. Did you know that Don Felder recorded 16 different guitar tracks on Hotel California with 7 playing at the same time at one point in the song? It's amazing to see how the band performed that one live with just three guitar players. Come out and catch a Victims of Love show…we'll show you how the Eagles performed that one live…along with dozens of others!
Date: Friday, July 12
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Heritage Park, 914 Kincaid Ave, Sumner, WA 98390
SHARKS & RAYS
Learn about sharks and rays, watch a shark feed, and play shark and ray games! Free with admission or membership. July 13-14. Find the details at the link below! Get tickets ahead of time or check in with your membership.
Date: Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14
Time: 9:15 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 North Pearl Street, Tacoma, WA 98407
TERRARIUM BUILDING WORKSHOP
Join us for a hands-on terrarium class! Purchase of this event includes all supplies to build a terrarium, accessories and instruction, just choose your vessel. PLUS 10% off one item of your choice in the shop! Hardscapes, accessories and plants will vary according to availability. BYOV=bring your own vessel and pay for supplies and instruction only. Thrifted glass vessels=this aligns with our values of sustainability and repurposing.
Date: Saturday, July 13
Time: 5:00 - 6:00 PM
Location: Parkland or 6th Ave, 323 Garfield Street South, Parkland, WA 98444
COMMUNITY GARDEN WORK PARTY
Many hands make light work! Join us for spring planting and general maintanance for the PLU Community Garden. All food grown in the garden is donated to Trinity Lutheran's Food Pantry. We encourage volunteers to dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and to wear closed toe shoes. All PLU student, faculty, staff and Parkland community members are invited to join.
Dates: Sundays, July 14 and July 28
Times: 12:00 - 1:30 PM
Location: PLU COMMUNITY GARDEN, Pacific Lutheran University, 12180 Park Ave S, Parkland, WA 98447
BEGINNERS BONSAI WORKSHOP
In this beginners class you will learn the basics of bonsai, plant selection, potting medium and care, and the significance of winter rest. What is included: Juniper. 6" ceramic pot. Decorative rock and bonsai topping. Please note, wiring is not included and is an advanced skill. (see Advanced Bonsai class) Attendees also receive 10% off one regular priced item of your choice during the event. Please make note of class location.
Date: Sunday, July 14
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Location: Parkland, 323 Garfield Street South, #103, Parkland, WA 98444
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, July 14
Time: 10:15 - 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
FREE THIRD THURSDAY AND DOWNTOWN ARTWALK
Tacoma's monthly Third Thursday museum district celebration! Local museums offer free or discounted admission once a month, and often feature special activities. Visit the Washington State History Museum for free from 3pm to 8pm. You can also visit the Foss Waterway Seaport from 4pm - 8pm, and the Tacoma Art Museum and Museum of Glass for from 5pm to 8pm. Local downtown art galleries also open their doors for participants to stop by and enjoy, the works of art and mingle with the artists.
Date: Thursday, July 18
Time: 3:00 - 8:00 PM
Location: WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY MUSEUM, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
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: Thursdays, July 18
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Location: TACOMA ART MUSEUM, Library Space (2nd floor), 1701 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
KIDZ KRAFT MAKERS MARKET AT FIRCREST FUN DAYS
Does your child enjoy making art projects? Do they love going to craft fairs and often comment, “I could sell my art/craft too”? If the answer is YES, this Fircrest FUNDAYS event is for your child! Applications open: Fircrest residents: June 3, 2024. Non-Fircrest residents: July 3, 2024. You can reserve their spot now by completing the vendor application at the link below. KIDZ KRAFT MAKERS (vendors) must be between ages 8 and 17. KID Vendor products must be kid-made and kid-managed. See website for more details.
Date: Friday, July 19
Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Fircrest Park, Fircrest, WA 98466
SUMNER'S MUSIC OFF MAIN WITH RESTLESS VOCAL BAND
Join us for Restless Vocal Band. Restless Vocal Band is a dynamic and award-winning mixed voice a cappella group hailing from the Pacific Northwest. With a diverse set list that spans decades and genres, from classic hits by The Temptations and The Drifters to modern pop sensations like Taylor Swift and Dua Lipa, Restless Vocal Band delivers a high-energy and unforgettable performance experience.
Date: Friday, July 19
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Location: Heritage Park, 914 Kincaid Ave, Sumner, WA 98390
FIRCREST FUN DAYS
The 2024 Friday Night FUN will feature a large variety of outdoor games, competitions, activities and culminate in an ultimate 80's Dance Party. The evening will also feature the Kids' Makers Market and a full line up of food trucks offering a fantastic variety of food options for purchase. On Saturday, FUN DAYS will feature live entertainment with bands, reptile show and so much more. And of course, we'll have Artist and Maker vendor booths, food trucks, a beer garden, yoga in the park, Kidz Zone and more. We'll bring back the Annual Furry 4K Pet Walk. We'll also bring back the Fir'CRUST' Pie Bake-off, Junior Bake-Off and Watermelon Eating Contest. The Saturday festivities will conclude with a spectacular firework show that evening. Fircrest FUN DAYS is family-friendly and community oriented.
Dates: Friday, July 19, 5:00 - 10:00 PM and Saturday, July 20, 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Location: Fircrest Park, Fircrest, WA 98466
HIVE POP UP MARKET
Mark your calendar! The next Hive Pop-Up Market is taking place Saturday, July 20th at 10 AM. We are actively sourcing artists and vendors, so if you are interested in participating, please visit our website and fill out the vendor form. We will post more details as we lock things in!
Date: Saturday, July 20
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: HIVE CO., 5436 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA, 98409
FAMILY STEAM DAYS – RUBE GOLDBERG MACHINES
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, July 20
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Location: LEMAY – AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM, 2702 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
OWL TOGETHER NOW - 1- MILE WALK
(Age 6+) Join us for this exciting collaborative fun event! This 1-mile course will be located solely within the Point Defiance Zoo. Animal photos displayed throughout the course will be a fun scavenger hunt for the whole family. This course is stroller and family friendly. You will see the zoo in a different light and have chances to spot penguins, musk ox, and red wolves. Half of the entry fees goes to support the PDZA AAZK to support conservation and professional development for their members. Interested in volunteering? Click here to sign up. July is Zookeeper Awareness month so, “Owl Together Now” let's support a fun and meaningful cause! The Zoo's Plaza Café will be open with Lancer Catering on the day of the race. 1-Mile Entry Fee, see website for more details.
Date: Saturday, Jul 20
Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: Point Defiance Park Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407
SUMNER'S MUSIC OFF MAIN WITH VICTIMS OF LOVE
Crafting small-town songs with big-city sounds, James Coates has spent 15 years connecting with audiences across the Pacific Northwest and around the country. Backed by a group of friends old and new, James Coates & His Band perform a signature blend of genres they affectionally refer to as “Funky Country & Americana Soul.”
Date: Friday, July 26
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Heritage Park, 914 Kincaid Ave, Sumner, WA 98390
MOSAIC: Tacoma's Arts & Culture Festival
Wright Park transforms into a celebration of international delights July 27-28 from 12-7 p.m. for the MOSAIC Arts and Culture Festival. The free community event highlighting traditional dance, music, art and food marks its 36th year under the park’s beautiful canopy of trees.
MOSAIC includes performances from community groups held both days on two different stages, a kids’ zone with entertainment created especially for younger festival goers. Enjoy a bounce house, the park’s sprayground and other activities.
Other features at this year’s celebration include food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines, and vendor village with nearly 100 different booths. Vendors include multicultural artists and crafters, local small business owners and Tacoma community groups, agencies and services.
Date: Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28
Time: 12:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Wright Park, 501 S I St, Tacoma, WA 98405