🤘 Good morning, Tacoma. It's Thursday, the 9th of April

Get ready for a busy Saturday! Whether you’re kicking off the morning with the Throwback 5K, celebrating 110 years of history at the Elks Temple, or lighting up the night at the Glow Run 5K, there are plenty of ways to stay active and celebrate in our community.

Elks Temple 110th Birthday

Celebrate over a century of history at the McMenamins Elks Temple 110th Birthday bash. This property-wide celebration features a full day of events, special releases, and live music.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

  • Time: All Day

  • Location: McMenamins Elks Temple, 565 Broadway

  • Cost: Free admission; tickets required for specific ballroom events

What to Expect:

  • Special Brews: The release of the anniversary "Tiramisu Pastry Stout."

  • History Tours: Explore the art and architecture of the historic building.

  • Live Music: Performances throughout the day, featuring an AC/DC tribute in the Spanish Ballroom at 8:00 PM.

A Saturday of 5Ks: Morning vs. Night

Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, this Saturday features two distinct ways to get moving in the community. Pick your vibe, or tackle both for a full day of fitness.

The Morning: Throwback 5K

Kick off the day with a retro twist at Wapato Park. Dust off your vintage athletic gear for this relaxed community run.

  • Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 am

  • Location: Wapato Park

  • Best for: Families and runners looking for a nostalgic start to the weekend.

  • Register

The Evening: Glow Run 5K

Light up the night at Chambers Creek Regional Park. This electrifying evening features vibrant colors, glow gear, and a post-run celebration.

  • Time: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Race starts at 7:00 pm)

  • Location: Chambers Creek Regional Park

  • Registration: $30 pre-reg (by April 5) / $35 day-of.

  • The Perks: Every runner gets a keepsake medal and entry to the Glow Dance Party following the finish line.

  • Register

🎭 Events

Thu 9

  • Art Class: Meditative Painting | 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

    • Location: Tacoma Art Museum – 1701 Pacific Ave

    • Description: A relaxing mini-retreat focused on watercolor techniques led by local artist Britton Sukys, the class is open to all skill levels. The museum provides all necessary supplies, though you are welcome to bring your own materials.

Fri 10

  • Isaac Mizrahi | 7:30 pm (Tickets)

    • Location: Tacoma Armory (Parade Floor) – 1001 S Yakima Ave

    • Description: The iconic designer and performer presents a unique cabaret show blending comedy, storytelling, and music. Accompanied by a six-piece jazz band, Mizrahi performs a range of hits from Sondheim to Madonna. Tickets are $76.25, with an optional meet-and-greet add-on available.

Sat 11

  • Family Nature Walk: Point Defiance | 10:00 am – 11:00 am (Register)

    • Location: Point Defiance Park (Fort Nisqually Picnic Shelter) – 5400 N Pearl St.

    • Description: A naturalist-led walk through the park to observe local wildlife and seasonal plant changes. The event is held rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Note: Due to construction, you must enter the park at the Mildred Street entrance; no pets are allowed.

  • Weird & Wacky Car Show | 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

    • Location: LeMay – America’s Car Museum – 2702 6th Ave

    • Description: A celebration of the strange, rare, and bizarre in the automotive world. From microcars and Soviet-era imports to custom one-off builds, this show focuses on everything but the "normal."

Sun 12

  • The Wellness & Whimsy Experience | 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm (Tickets)

    • Location: The Press Room – 714 Opera Alley

    • Description: An earth-inspired market featuring sustainable goods, wellness products, and local makers. Free entry begins at 1:00 pm. For $20, VIP tickets offer 12:00 pm early access and a welcome bag. An indoor event featuring a cash bar and community-centered energy.

🎸 Music

Events marked with ($) are paid events

Thu 9

  • Codefendants | McMenamins Spanish Ballroom | 7:30 pm ($)

  • John Waite | Emerald Queen Casino & Hotel Tacoma | 7:00 pm ($)

Fri 10

  • Pedro The Lion | McMenamins Spanish Ballroom | 7:00 pm ($)

  • Rocky Mountain High Experience | Theatre on the Square | 7:30 pm ($)

  • Ralfy The Plug | Real Art Tacoma | 7:30 pm ($)

  • Me Porto Bonito - Reggaeton Party | Jazzbones | 10:00 pm ($)

Sat 11

  • Shoot To Thrill [AC/DC Tribute] | McMenamins Spanish Ballroom | 7:00 pm ($)

😆 Comedy

Fri 10

  • Janelle James | 7:00 pm & 10:00 pm (tickets)

    • Location: Nate Jackson's Super Funny Comedy Club – 1530 Pacific Ave

    • Description: Abbott Elementary star Janelle James performs two sets (Friday and Saturday) of sharp, fearless stand-up. Expect bold observations and quick wit in an intimate, high-energy setting.

☀ Weather

🫡 Before we go

Check out these breathtaking new images from the Artemis II mission. NASA has released stunning 8K resolution photos of the lunar surface and a rare "Earthset" from deep space.

View the full high-res gallery here: Artemis II Moon Gallery

Thank you for reading, and I'll see you on Thursday.

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