Staying in Tacoma this Labor Day weekend? We found plenty of things to do nearby
Are you ready for the long weekend? I know we are.
If you’re looking to beat the crowds and stay in town for Labor Day weekend, don’t despair. There’s plenty of things to do in Tacoma that won’t break the bank.
Friday: State fair and an outdoor movie
Labor Day weekend marks the kick off of the Washington State Fair. Opening day is Friday in Puyallup, and kids 18 and younger get free admission through Sept. 4. Playing at the Grandstand Friday is Grammy Award-winning and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends Chicago. Read our guide on discounts, what to eat and parking at the fair this year.
The LeMay — America’s Car Museum will host a free outdoor movie night at sunset Friday. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will be displayed on a 40-foot screen, and people can watch from their cars or a blanket. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. ,and parking is first come, first served. Food trucks will be on site, and viewers are welcome to bring lawn chairs and yard games.
Saturday: Punk rock flea market and beach day
We can’t think of a better way to soak up the last of summer and enjoy ALMA’s event space before the venue closes in October than the all-ages Punk Rock Flea Market. Hundreds of vendors from around the Puget Sound area will be selling clothes, records, art, crafts, housewares and more at 1322 S. Fawcett Ave. in Tacoma. DJs will be playing live music, and there will be food and drink. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the event goes until 7 p.m. It costs $1, supporting the work of the Low Income Housing Institute. If you’re busy Saturday, don’t worry. The event will also be running Sunday, same time and place.
If a Punk Rock Flea Market isn’t your thing, take advantage of the sunny day and catch up on some reading or bring a picnic lunch to a beach nearby (perhaps Browns Point Lighthouse Park, Owen Beach or Jack Hyde Park).
Sunday: Arts on Anderson Island, zoo garden tour
Spend this Sunday afternoon enjoying the island life. An Art in the Park event with “arts, crafts and good company” will take place on Anderson Island from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ray Park. Local artists and craftspeople will sell and show off their paintings, sculptures, jewelry and pottery. Friends and families are welcome. The event is sponsored by Anderson Island Arts and the Riviera Community Club.
If you’re not looking to take the ferry on Sunday, visit Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium for a garden tour with the zoo horticulturist. The guided tour is free with zoo admission or membership. Meet the guide at the Pacific Rim Plaza, just inside the front gate, at 10 a.m.
This story was originally published September 1, 2023 at 5:15 AM.
