Street food fest, a new deputy, a cider cup giveaway, Chamorro Day Festival, live Chicago tribute, school tour, and more.
June 20, 2025
Happy Friday, Tacoma. You know the drill – grab your coffee (or whatever you sip in the morning), kick back, and let Tacoma Brief serve up everything you need to know for the weekend ahead:
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Street food fest 🌮
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Live tribute band 🎺
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Chamorro festival 🌺
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Things to do 📆
Let’s get to it.
📰 In the news
Old school, new purpose: A former Tacoma elementary school is being converted into a 24-hour childcare and workforce hub for union families, backed by $5 million in state funding — see how the plan is taking shape.
Tiny homes coming to Tacoma: A 60-unit tiny home village called Kingfisher Village is opening July 21 on South Hosmer Street to house up to 75 people experiencing homelessness — see what’s planned.
New deputy named: Allyson Griffith, previously interim deputy city manager, was officially appointed to the role by the City of Tacoma on June 6 after nearly two decades of service — read the full announcement.
Highlights this week
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Repair rights protected in Washington State
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2 Olympia & Seattle libraries are closing to the public
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Vintage & artsy auction supports charitable programs
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Tacoma’s annual street food festival is tomorrow
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Tomorrow’s emo night at Airport Tavern
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Compare auto insurance rates for free
🫶 We got your back
Fresh fields, fresher flavors: Get ready to dig in—Tibbitts at Fern Hill is where your fork meets the farm. From sun-kissed heirloom tomatoes to pasture-raised delights, every plate tells a story of nearby soil, sustainable practice, and that sweet “I-can’t-believe-this-is-good-for-you” sensation.
Steep your senses: When you need a timeout from the daily grind, Mad Hat Tea brews up serenity one leaf at a time. Whether you’re chasing floral oolongs or smoky pu’ers, they’ve got the perfect pour-over to turn any afternoon into a moment worth savoring.
Desk not required: Tired of your same old home-office setup? The Pioneer Collective hands you the Wi-Fi, the office plant (sort of), and that soft‐serve of creative energy you’ve been craving. Plug in, brainstorm, and bond over communal snacks—without the awkward water-cooler small talk.
Strike the right chord: Ready to riff? Ted Brown Music is your one-stop shop for everything from ukuleles that whisper to drum kits that roar. Whether you’re a fret-shy beginner or a pedal-tapping pro, they’ll have you making music—and maybe memories—before you can say “encore.”
Degrees without the squeeze: Want to help your kiddo or grandchild through college? Co-signing their student loan helps them unlock lower rates and increases their chances of getting approved. Some lenders release co-signers after enough on-time payments, so it doesn’t have to be forever. Avoid last-minute headaches by acting now!
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📆 Tacoma happenings
All events are subject to change without notice. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.
Today
🥤 Fill Your Cup! @ Incline Cider House | Friday (6/20) at 6 pm – Chill out with summer slushies in limited-edition color-changing cups that are yours to keep! New cider flavors debuting, good vibes flowing—just don’t forget to show off your cup’s magic to the neighbors.
🎨 2025 Vintage & Artsy Auction @ Star Center | Friday (6/20) at 6 pm – Dust off your bidding paddle for a night of silent and live auctions, gourmet dinner, and a dessert dash in support of St. Vincent de Paul of Tacoma. Get ready to mix, mingle, and score one-of-a-kind pieces that make your home and your heart a little bigger.
🎷 The Chicago Transit Experience @ Jazzbones | Friday (6/20) at 8 pm – Seattle’s top tribute to Chicago rolls into Tacoma with all the horn-driven hits you crave, from “Saturday in the Park” to “You’re the Inspiration.” Expect flawless harmonies, powerhouse solos, and a nostalgia trip that’ll have you dancing till last call.
This weekend
🌺 Chamorro Day Festival 2025 @ Star Center | Saturday (6/21) at 10 am – Celebrate Tacoma’s first Chamorro festival with headliners Jesse Bais and Ruby Santos. Immerse yourself in the sounds, culture, and heritage of the Chamorro people. It’s going to be a day full of rhythm, food, and good vibes!
🍴 Lincoln District Food Walk @ Lincoln District Tacoma | Saturday (6/21) at 12 pm – Tacoma’s favorite street food fest is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! Enjoy tasty food truck bites, restaurant specials, a michelada beer garden, live music, and an awesome pop-up marketplace by Por Vida NW. Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready to explore!
🎶 House Band @ Urban Elk Restaurant & Allenmore Event Center | Saturday (6/21) at 4 pm – Enjoy live music and a chill vibe at Urban Elk! Whether you’re here to eat, drink, dance, or just vibe out, it’s the perfect spot for all ages to enjoy a good time.
🏫 Exclusive Tour of Stadium High School @ Stadium High School | Saturday (6/21) at 5 pm – Get a rare peek inside the iconic Stadium High School, once a luxury hotel, now a landmark in Tacoma. Take a trip through history, architecture, and all the cool stories tucked within these walls!
🐚 Low Tide Tour @ Jack Hyde Park | Sunday (6/22) at 8:30 am – Discover the secret world beneath the waves on a hands-on beach walk hosted by Harbor WildWatch. From sea stars to anemones, you’ll touch and learn about Salish Sea critters while soaking up morning sun. Rain or shine, this guided stroll is the ultimate tide-pool adventure for curious explorers.
🎪 The Tacoma Washington Super Show @ Tacoma Dome | Sunday (6/22) at 11 am – Get ready for a day of epic performances, surprises, and community spirit under one roof. From live demos to surprise guest appearances, this “super” show packs a punch for rockstars of all ages. Don’t miss your chance to claim bragging rights as part of Tacoma’s biggest gathering of the year.
🎶 Live music & entertainment
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6/20 Porchfest Benefit Show @ Bob’s Java Jive – 6 pm
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6/20 The Chicago Transit Experience @ Jazzbones – 8 pm
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6/20 Fifteen Stitches @ The Valley – 8 pm
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6/21 House Band @ Urban Elk Restaurant – 4 pm
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6/21 The Tonze @ The Spar – 7 pm
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6/21 This Party Sucks! Emo Night @ Airport Tavern Music Hall – 8 pm
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6/21 Giddy Up & Get Down @ Jazzbones – 8 pm
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6/22 Woodstock State of Mind @ The New Frontier Lounge – 5 pm
🏠️ Price Is Right – Tacoma edition
How it works: We’re going to give you some facts about a home for sale, including a picture of the outside, the kitchen, and one additional room. Your job? Guess how much it’s listed for (preferably before you click to find out).
*This️ 👇️ could be your listing. Hit us up if you’ve got a home (or 12) to sell.
Amy Flippo (Hawkins Poe) – 5 bedrooms | 6 bathrooms | Built in 1966 | 5589 sqft
This Northwest Contemporary home delivers panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympics, and Mt. Rainier. LaCantina doors open to a gourmet kitchen, spa-style amenities, and a wine cellar. Outside, enjoy a private resort setup: pool, waterfall, hot tub, and even underwater speakers.
Outside, it’s less backyard, more private resort: pool, waterfall, hot tub, water slide, and underwater speakers for synchronized swimming to your questionable playlists. Artisan 14th Colony sconces light up the party, and the putting green awaits your next mini-meltdown.
Make your guess, then (and only then)… see how much it costs →
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