Tracing the origins of Easter By Steve Russo Easter did not begin with choirs, pastel colors, or packed churches. It began in a dim upper room in Jerusalem around 30 CE. A small circle of Jewish followers gathered for Passover, the ancient remembrance of liberation from Egypt. The lamb was prepared. The bread was unleavened. Bitter herbs were placed on the table. Tradition was intact. Then came the moment no one expected. Their teacher, Jesus of Nazareth, reframed the meal. W

April 25 Support local animal welfare at the Whiskers & Paws Gala hosted by Auburn Valley Humane Society. This annual fundraiser takes place April 25, 2026, from 5 to 8:30 pm at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center, 31510 Pete Von Reichbauer Way S, Federal Way. The evening includes a silent and live auction, appetizers, dinner, program, and Raise the Paddle. Proceeds benefit shelter programs and community pet services. Visit AuburnValleyHS.org  for tickets and event

April 10-12 & 17-19 The Washington State Spring Fair returns to Puyallup with rides, animals, free entertainment, fair food, exhibits, and classic attractions spread across the fairgrounds. The event offers something for all ages, from agricultural showcases to live performances and midway favorites. Taking place April 10–12 and April 17–19, 2026, the fair delivers two weekends of spring fun and tradition. Family-friendly experiences and seasonal displays make it a popular an

April 17-19 The Daffodil 2026 Marine Festival & Parade is a spirited boating celebration where the Gig Harbor Yacht Club joins the Tacoma Yacht Club for one of Puget Sound’s most beloved spring traditions. The festival features themed parties, trivia, live music, boat decorating, and the vibrant marine parade along Commencement Bay. This event draws boaters and spectators alike to celebrate community, creativity, and maritime culture. It runs from April 17–19, 2026, with para

Simple habits for everyday living By Jennifer Hawkins, key2see with Hawkins Poe Nine times out of ten, when we’re getting a home prepped and polished for its big listing launch, the homeowners pause in the doorway, look around, and say, “Wow… I wish my house looked like this the whole time we lived here.” So here’s the question: why didn’t it? Staging isn’t about making a home feel untouchable or uncomfortable. It’s about creating space that flows. It’s about walking into a r

Ahndrea Blue carries her grandmother’s legacy forward through food, hope, and community By Like Media Team In Tacoma, the Making A Difference Foundation (MADF) is reshaping what it means to serve a community. Founded and led by Ahndrea Blue, the organization stands as a powerful force for dignity, compassion, and opportunity. Through its cornerstone program, Eloise’s Cooking Pot, MADF provides nourishment and hope to families across the region. “My grandmother, Eloise, was a

March 26-27 Step into fresh art at The Lemon Sessions, an immersive performance series presented by Tacoma Arts Live at the Tacoma Armory. This unique program elevates regional visual and performing artists through collaborative, multi-disciplinary performances designed to engage the senses. The March edition takes place March 26–27, 2026, at 7:30 pm. Ticket options include Access, Basic, and Artist Advocate levels. Discover new artists and creative collaborations in a settin

March 14 Get moving with the St. Paddy’s Day Run in Tacoma, a festive race celebrating fitness with a splash of Irish spirit. Runners and walkers can choose from a 5K, 10K, or kids’ dash through scenic city streets, with themed swag and post-race festivities adding to the fun. The event takes place on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Gather your crew, wear your green, and join the celebration. Visit TCMAEvents.com  for registration and full event details. Check out more local events

March 14 The 5th Annual Irish Fest in the Northwest will take place at its new location, the Thurston County Fairgrounds and Event Center, for a celebration of Irish culture and community. The event runs March 14–15 from 10 am to 4 pm each day. Guests can explore more than 75 vendors and food trucks, enjoy live entertainment, take Leprechaun photos, and visit the beer garden, which benefits the Royal T Foundation. Admission and parking are free. Visit SouthSoundMakersMarket.c

February 27 - March 8 From February 27 to March 8, 2026, Tacoma Beer Week returns as the region’s premier celebration of craft beer culture. This multi-day festival features brewery specials, taproom events, beer-pairing dinners, community fundraisers, and more across Tacoma and Pierce County. While official event listings are still being finalized, organizers are accepting submissions and encouraging attendees to watch for updates. For the latest schedule and participating v

February 21 This February 21, Auburn Symphony invites you to Night at the Oscars, a dazzling concert celebrating the greatest musical moments in film history. The performance begins at 7 pm at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center. Expect sweeping love themes, pulse-driven adventure scores, and beloved cinematic melodies brought to life by a full orchestra. For ticketing, program details, and more, visit AuburnSymphony.org . Check out more local events here !

February 13  Get ready for an unforgettable night on February 13, 2026, when Tacoma Arts Live presents Disenchanted! at the Pantages Theater. Doors open at 6:30 pm, with the show beginning at 7:30 pm. This witty musical flips fairy-tale expectations as beloved princesses ditch their tiaras to tell their own side of the story — complete with laughs, sharp lyrics, and bold performances. Expect adult humor and a fresh twist on classic roles. For tickets and details, visit Tacoma

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January 29 - February 1 Returning January 29–February 1, 2026, the 43rd Annual Tacoma Home + Garden Show takes over the Tacoma Dome, connecting homeowners with contractors, designers, and landscaping experts from across the region. Expect show hours of 11 am–7 pm Thursday through Saturday, and 11 am–5 pm Sunday. Friday is Hero Day (free admission for military, emergency, and healthcare personnel), while Sunday is Teacher Day. For exhibitor info, special events, and ticketing,

January 10-11 On January 10–11, 2026, the Tacoma Wedding + Event Show invites couples and event planners to explore wedding inspiration, services, and professionals for every detail. From florists and photographers to venues and décor specialists, the show brings together top vendors serving the South Sound region. Times for each day are to be announced. Whether just starting to plan or putting finishing touches on your big day, this expo offers excellent resources and ideas.

Now - January 3 Through January 3, 2026, Ice Lights transforms Sprinker Recreation Center in Tacoma into a dazzling winter wonderland. Visitors can skate beneath thousands of sparkling lights, glide in ice bumper cars, and enjoy festive displays, a glowing light curtain, and a towering 20-foot holiday tree. Perfect for families and friends, this seasonal favorite offers an unforgettable way to celebrate the winter season. For full details and schedules, visit PierceCountyWA.g

December 24 Tie up your laces and jingle all the way at the Jingle Bell Run on December 24, 2025, at Wright Park in Tacoma. This festive 3-mile run/walk begins at 11 am and encourages participants to dress in their most cheerful holiday attire. Donations of warm winter items and essentials benefit Tacoma Rescue Mission, making this a race that gives back. For full details and registration, visit ParksTacoma.gov . Check out more local events here !

December 13-14, 19-21 December 13–14 and 19–21, 2025, Tacoma City Ballet brings its celebrated production of The Nutcracker to the historic Pantages Theater. Lavish scenery, dazzling costumes, and the magic of live orchestral accompaniment will sweep audiences away. Performances begin at 2 pm on December 13, 14, and 21, with evening shows at 7 pm on December 19 and a matinee on December 20. For tickets and the whole performance schedule, visit TacomaCityTheaters.org . Check o

December 5-7, 12-14, 19-23 December 5–7, 12–14, and 19–23, 2025, Holiday Magic returns to the Washington State Fair Event Center in Puyallup, filling the season with wonder and light. Stroll through sparkling tunnels, enjoy cheerful rides, explore Santa’s Village, and sip cocoa beneath thousands of twinkling lights. With snow shows, live entertainment, ice skating, and a festive market, it’s the perfect holiday outing for all ages. Open 4:30 to 9:30 pm. For tickets and detail

Photo Features Marina Davis December 31 From starting with a $20 sewing machine to leading one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events, Penelope Tinitali has transformed her passion into a movement. On New Year’s Eve at the Avelon Ballroom in Tacoma, she will present the 5th Annual Samoa Fashion Show, themed Tula’i Fou (“Arise Anew”). This year marks a turning point as the event stands independently, celebrating Samoan designers and their artistry in the heart of Tac