Viking Days, silent films, gem show and comic convention make Tacoma’s weekend to-do
There are plenty of activities to choose from this weekend in Tacoma. From films, to a Norwegian cultural festival, a comic show, arts fair, bazaar and gem show, there’s something for the whole family.
Friday: Silent films and Viking Days
The historic Blue Mouse Theatre is celebrating its 100th birthday this weekend. It opened on Nov. 13, 1923. To commemorate, the theater is showing a variety of old movies and hosting some special events. Friday will include a “Family Fright Night” double feature of “Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein” (1945) and “Monster Squad” (1987). Saturday will have a glamorous red carpet gala featuring “Casablanca” (1942) and a 1940s best-dressed contest, followed by a midnight showing of “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Sunday will feature Disney animations and films made in Tacoma, including the silent film “Eyes of the Totem” (1927). On Monday the theater will show the silent film that played on opening night 100 years ago, “Green Goddess.” Tickets will be offered at the 1923 price of 25 cents. Address: 2611 N. Proctor St., Tacoma.
This weekend the Sons of Norway will put on its annual “Viking Days,” with Norwegian food, dancing, crafts, tastings and, of course, Vikings. On the menu is pea soup, meatballs, lefse, Laresen’s bread, “Viking on a stick,” mead, wine and aquavit. The event goes from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Address: the Norden Lodge #2, 1106 S. 15th St., Tacoma.
Saturday: Comic show and Arts at the Armory
The 10th annual Grit City Comic Show is happening downtown Tacoma on Saturday, featuring top comic book creators, vendors of all types, games, Legos, toys and cosplay. The family friendly convention will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can look at a list of vendors online. Tickets are $10 each, or $15 at the door. Address: Greater Tacoma Convention Center, 1500 Broadway, Tacoma.
Also happening this weekend is the Arts at the Armory event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The free, all-ages event features the work of Tacoma artists in all disciplines and mediums. You’ll be able to shop and learn about the artistic process from the creators themselves. Local food trucks will also be on-site during the event. Address: 1001 S. Yakima Ave., Tacoma.
Sunday: Buddhist Bazaar and gem fair
The Tacoma Buddhist Temple is holding its annual Fall Bazaar in-person Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food will be served, including beef curry and udon, as well as homemade desserts like daifuku mochi and pies. There will be fall produce as well as a small rummage sale of Japanese items like dishes, art and dolls. Address: 1713 S. Fawcett Ave., Tacoma.
This weekend is the Gem Faire, hosted at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup. Pick through fine jewelry, crystals, gems, beads, minerals, gold, silver, fossils and more, sold by wholesalers and importers. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring-sizing services are also available. Tickets are $7 for a weekend pass. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. Free parking will be offered. Address: 110 9th Ave. SW, Puyallup.
