
March is here and it brought Spring
February 28, 2020 by bluegullinn
March is here and it brought Spring
March is here and it brought Spring with it! Hopefully sunny weather is around the corner, but if not, the city of Port Townsend’s got you covered. The month is full of indoor and outdoor activities; rain or shine, we have something for everyone!
Key City Public Theater is leading the charge with new offerings for their Playfest 24. A new works showcase, the festival runs from March 6-15 and features one act plays from local playwrights and showcases performances that are being workshopped by regionally and nationally-known playwrights. The fest has performances, open rehearsals, discussion panels and workshops. It’s a fantastic way to get an inside look at the inner workings of play production!
Vinyl will live forever! On March 7, the Port Townsend Record Show is being held at the American Legion Hall. Featuring over 30 vendors, the hall is going to be stuffed to the brim with LPs, tapes, cds and collectibles. DJs will be spinning vinyl all day at the event. Come kick out the jams!
Woman on bicycle local author Sarah A. Chrisman
The Victorian Festival is on March 20-22. This year’s festival will focus on the years of “Great Expectations” in Port Townsend, when business was booming, the sailing ship was king and citizens were sure Port Townsend would be the ‘key city’ gateway to Puget Sound. The festival will feature lectures by local Victorian experts, the Chrismans, a tour of the Schooner Martha and an exploration of the Victorian’s fascination with the macabre at the Starrett House.
Most people don’t need any kind of encouragement to go fishing, but the Olympic Peninsula Salmon Derby is offering a $10,000 prize to whoever catches the biggest salmon! The event runs from March 13-15 and happens on the water from Port Angeles to Port Ludlow. Other prizes include four $500 mystery fish. What other reasons do you need to get on the water?
Looking to hear some good yarns for a great cause? She tells Sea Tales is an evening of stories told by women mariners in support of the Girls Boat Project, a project at the Northwest Maritime Center for girls between 12-18. The Girls Boat Project students learn all sorts of maritime skills, on and off the water. They learn woodworking and boatbuilding techniques in the fall and longboat techniques in the spring. The story event is March 14 at the Northwest Maritime Center at 7 p.m.
Don’t miss these upcoming events in Port Townsend:
April 2-May2
KCPT: Always Patsy Cline
April 4
PT Farmer’s Market Opens
April 20
PT Mainstreet Earth Day Spring Clean Up
April 24-25
Port Townsend Film Festival: Woman & Film
April 25-26
Northwest Wine & Cheese Tour
March is here and it brought Spring with it! Hopefully sunny weather is around the corner, but if not, the city of Port Townsend’s got you covered. The month is full of indoor and outdoor activities; rain or shine, we have something for everyone!
USS Nimitz visits Port Townsend, WA
February 22, 2020 by bluegullinn
USS Nimitz visits Port Townsend, WA.
February 18 – 21, 2020
We want to say to all the service men and women aboard the Nimitz…..thank you for your service!
We hope you enjoyed your visit to Historic & Victorian Port Townsend, WA.
USS Nimitz leaving Port Townsend Bay on Friday February 21, 2020
Fun Facts about the USS Nimitz
USS Nimitz History
After her commissioning May 3, 1975, Nimitz’ first deployment began July 7, 1976 when she departed Norfolk for the Mediterranean. Nimitz again sailed toward the Mediterranean Sea Dec. 1, 1977. Sept. 10, 1979, she was dispatched to the Indian Ocean as tensions heightened after Iran took 52 U.S. hostages. Four months later, Operation Evening Light was launched from Nimitz in an attempt to rescue the hostages. The rescue was aborted in the Iranian desert when the number of operational helicopters fell below the minimum needed to complete the rescue.
Oct. 29, 1988, Nimitz began operating in the North Arabian Sea in support of Operation Earnest Will. Nimitz then departed Bremerton on Feb. 25, 1991 for the Arabian Gulf, relieving USS Ranger (CV 61), during Operation Desert Storm. Nimitz again deployed Feb. 1, 1993 to the Arabian Gulf, relieving USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as part of Operation Southern Watch.
Sept. 1, 1997, Nimitz set out on an around-the-world cruise. During this deployment, Nimitz was ordered into the Arabian Gulf to support Operation Southern Watch and various United Nations initiatives.
Nimitz arrived at her new homeport in San Diego Nov. 13, 2001. In 2003, Nimitz deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. In May 2005, Nimitz embarked on a six-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terrorism. After leaving the Gulf, the strike group participated in Malabar 2005, an exercise between the U.S. and Indian navies. In 2007 and 2008, Nimitz CSG deployed in support of the U.S. commitment to peace and stability in the region. Nimitz departed to the Persian Gulf for a scheduled eightmonth Western Pacific deployment on July 31, 2009 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Nimitz arrived at her new homeport in Everett, Washington in March 2012. March 30, 2013, Nimitz deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Nov. 3, 2014, Nimitz took part in naval aviation history when the Navy’s fifth generation Joint Strike Fighter, F-35 Lightning, touched down on a carrier at sea for the first time.
Nimitz arrived at her new homeport in Bremerton, Washington Jan. 13, 2015. Beginning Jan. 15, 2016, Nimitz underwent a 20-month extended incremental availability (EPIA). Nimitz began workups Oct. 10, 2016 for a 2017 deployment completing sea trials, and Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA-FEP). Nimitz returned to sea Jan. 28, 2017 to undergo its first Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) since 2010.
In April 2017 Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11 completed its final pre-deployment assessment, Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), marking the completion of a condensed Inter-Deployment Training Cycle (IDTC). Nimitz deployed on a regularly scheduled deployment June 1 to the U.S. 7th Fleet (C7F) and U.S. 5th Fleet (C5F) areas of operations. Nimitz returned home from deployment on December 10, 2017. Nimitz entered dry dock six on March 1st, 2018, for a docking planned incremental availability at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility.
Legacy
Our legacy comes from the rich history of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz and the vast history of USS Nimitz – the lead ship of the Nimitz class of aircraft carriers. Both the man and the ship share deep roots in tradition, dedication and service to the United States Navy. Namesake
Chester William Nimitz Sr. (Feb. 24, 1885 – Feb. 20, 1966) was a fleet admiral of the United States Navy. He played a major role in the naval history of World War II as commander in chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Commander in Chief, Pacific Ocean Areas, commanding Allied air, land, and sea forces during World War II.
Nimitz was the leading U.S. Navy authority on submarines. Qualified in submarines during his early years, he later oversaw the conversion of these vessels’ propulsion from gasoline to diesel, and then later was key in acquiring approval to build the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, USS Nautilus (SSN 571), whose propulsion system later completely superseded diesel-powered submarines in the U.S.
In 1917, he was the Navy’s leading developer of underway replenishment techniques, that tool that allowed the U.S. fleet to operate away from port almost indefinitely during the Pacific War. Chief of the Navy’s Bureau of Navigation in 1939, Nimitz served as chief of naval operations from 1945 until 1947. He was the United States’ last officer to serve at the rank of fleet admiral. First of Her Class
USS Nimitz is a supercarrier of the U.S. Navy, and the lead ship of her class. One of the largest warships in the world, she was laid down, launched and commissioned as CVAN 68 but was later re-designated CVN 68 (nuclear-powered multi-mission aircraft carrier) on June 30, 1975 as part of the fleet realignment. Nimitz was homeported at Naval Station Norfolk until 1987, when she was relocated to Naval Station Bremerton in Washington State (now part of Naval Base Kitsap).
Following her Refueling and Complex Overhaul in 2001, her homeport was changed to Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego. The homeport of Nimitz was again moved to Naval Station Everett in Washington State in 2012. In January 2015, Nimitz changed homeport from Everett back to Naval Base Kitsap.
Nimitz is now the oldest American aircraft carrier in active service.
USS Nimitz Fast Facts
Keel Laid _________________________________________________________________ June 22, 1968 Launched _________________________________________________________________ May 13, 1972 Commissioned ______________________________________________________________ May 3, 1975 Propulsion System ________________________________________________ Two nuclear power plants Main Engines _____________________________________________________________________ Four Speed _______________________________________________________________________ 30+ knots Propellers ________________________________________________________________________ Four Blades on each propeller _____________________________________________________________ Five Aircraft Elevators __________________________________________________________________ Four Catapults _________________________________________________________________________ Four Arresting Gear Cables ______________________________________________________________ Four Overall Length ________________________________________________________________ 1,092 feet Overall Width __________________________________________________________________ 252 feet Beam at Waterline _______________________________________________________________ 134 feet Area of Flight Deck __________________________________________________ Approx 4.5 Acres Full Load Displacement ____________________________________________________ Approx 97,000 Tons Accommodations _____________________________________________ Approx 5,000 Sailors/Marines Meals Each Day ___________________________________________________________ 18,000-20,000 Mail Processed __________________________________________________ Over 1 million lbs per year
• Four distilling units enable engineers to make more than 400,000 gallons of fresh water a day for use by the propulsion plant, catapults and crew. • Nimitz can stock at least 70 days of refrigerated and dry goods. • Several tons of laundry is washed every day by Nimitz’s laundry, dry cleaning and tailoring services personnel. • Nimitz’s two barber shops trim more than 1,500 heads per week. • Nuclear power allows the ship to store 50 percent more ammunition and almost twice as much aviation fuel as the largest conventional steam carrier. • Nimitz can hold 3.5 million gallons of fuel. • Nimitz reaches more than 23 stories high from the keel to the top of the mast. • The hangar bay extends for most of the ship’s length. It is used for major repairs and shelters aircraft.
Annual Shipwrights’ Regatta in Port Townsend
January 28, 2020 by bluegullinn
Annual Shipwrights’ Regatta
Saturday, February 29, 2020
The sailboat racing season opens in February with the Port Townsend Shipwrights’ Regatta!
The Northwest Maritime Center and the Port Townsend Sailing Association present the 29th Annual Shipwrights’ Regatta! Boats of all construction are welcome. The race is also open to folks who would like to try sailboat racing but do not have a boat. Non-boat owners are encouraged to show up at the Skippers’ Meeting and to be connected with skippers looking for crew.
Door Prizes! Perpetual Awards! Chance to win a free haul out for two lucky racers!
Learn more at nwmaritime.org/shipwrights
• Skipper’s Meeting at 9:00 AM at the NWMC
• Complimentary coffee provided by Sunrise Coffee
• Race starts at 12 noon on Port Townsend Bay
• Awards ceremony & refreshments at NWMC following race
Entry fee: $40
Registrations accepted until 9:00 AM on race day.
Location NW Maritime Center, 431 Water St, Port Townsend, WA, 98368
History of Fort Worden
December 14, 2019 by bluegullinn
Any time of the year is great to visit Port Townsend, WA.
Make sure to visit Fort Worden State Park.
The History of Fort Worden
1879
Point Wilson Lighthouse was built – before Fort Worden itself – and continues to aid marine traffic today. Point Wilson marks the western entrance into the Puget Sound.
1883
Episcopal rector, Reverend John B. Alexander, builds Alexander’s Castle.
1896
The Secretary of War was authorized by Congress to fortify three points – Fort Worden, Fort Casey, Fort Flagler – for the protection of Puget Sound. These forts are also known as the “Triangle of Fire”.
1902
May 3rd: Steamer, Majestic, arrived from Seattle with 87 enlisted men of the 126th Company under the command of Captain Manus McClosky of Fort Canby, Washington.
May 14th: By general orders from Fort Canby, the Army post at Fort Worden was officially established by the United States Government.
1903
Summer: 23 buildings, including barracks, under construction — completed March, 1904, at a cost of $59,450.
A communications system was installed to connect forts Flagler, Casey and Worden by cable. A power house was also built to supply electricity to the fort at a cost of $60,000.
1904
September: Headquarters of the Harbor Defense of Puget Sound transferred from Fort Flagler to Fort Worden.
1907
July 17th: Electric power brought to the post.
1917
April 6th: World War I declared — Fort Worden expanded with construction of six new buildings: Two 66-Man Barracks, Mess Hall, Latrine, and Officers quarters
1921
A balloon hangar was built at Fort Worden, symbolizing the shift in seacoast defense strategy. The balloon company’s stay was brief as it was soon discovered that wind conditions were not conducive to balloon flight.
1953
June 30th: Fort Worden officially closed, ending a 51-year period of military activity.
1958
June 24th: Official opening and dedication program as Fort Worden Diagnostic and Treatment Center.
1959
December 3rd: Navy jurisdiction of fortified areas ends — Army retains command of these areas.
1962
October: Fort Worden selected as an emergency site in case of atomic war, for use as one of the command posts of the civil government.
1965
November 5th: State Parks acquires additional Fort Worden lands (209 acres) — for future development for camping and recreation areas.
1973
August 10th: 50-unit campground opened with full hook-ups.
August 18th: Dedication of Fort Worden as a State Park.
Centrum founded as non-profit arts and education organization.
1976
Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum opened by the 248th Coast Artillery Association.
1981
Marine Science Center opened by local interest group.
1982
Commanding Officers’ Quarters Museum opened under the direction of The Heritage Group.
2002
Fort Worden celebrates its centennial.
2012
The Port Townsend Public Development Authority amends its charter and name to focus solely on Fort Worden. The Commission adopts the updated Fort Worden Public Development Authority’s (FWPDA) Business and Management Plan in October. The Commission directs State Parks staff to negotiate a master lease for the campus portion of the Park.
2013
The Commission approves a master lease with the FWPDA for the 90-acre campus area of the Park pending the accomplishment of specific transition milestones.
2014
The FWPDA accomplishes required transition milestones and takes over day-to-day operations of the 90-acre campus on May 1.
August in PT is in Full Swing with Music and Fun at Every Turn!
August 1, 2019 by bluegullinn
Discover Washington’s Victorian Seaport & Arts Community
With its maritime heritage, artist spirit, and a touch of urban chic, Port Townsend is an easily accessible base camp to the Olympic Peninsula and beyond. Whether on land or sea; indoors or outdoors – Port Townsend has activities for every taste.
Party down in Port Townsend in August with live music all around town, Shakespeare in the Park and summer fairs for the whole family. You won’t want to miss a minute!
The Port Townsend Acoustic Blues Festival heats up the park with “Blues in the Clubs” as a moveable feast of great music for all ages in various venues at Fort Worden State Park. One nightly wristband gives you the freedom to move around to all the venues throughout the evening, gaining the full benefit of the club experience. Centrum’s Blues faculty will play sets in all sorts of interesting combinations on Friday, August 2 and Saturday, August 3 from 8 pm – midnight. For more information, go to https://centrum.org/port-townsend-acoustic-blues-festival-performances/.
Key City Public Theatre is proud to present “The Merry Wives of Windsor” at Shakespeare in the Park this month. Jealousy, glamour, ego and lies. In this contemporary version of Shakespeare’s merry comedy, Sir John Falstaff returns to Chetzemoka Park with plans to hustle his way to comfortable retirement by seducing two of Windsor’s prominent wives. But these wealthy and witty women hold all the power throughout an outrageously funny picnic outing. The ladies finally have their day in this summer’s Shakespeare in the Park, adapted and directed by Denise Winter.
Performances run Aug. 2 through 25, outdoors in beautiful Chetzemoka Park (Jackson and Blaine Streets), Fridays through Sundays at 6 pm. All performances are Pay-What-You-Wish at the gate, with advance tickets costing $29, available at the playhouse box office at 360.385.KCPT (5278) or online at http://www.keycitypublictheatre.org/.
Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating on the grass and to dress warmly for when the sun goes down. Picnic fare is welcome. Concessions will also be sold.
The dock is still rockin’ for a few more weeks at the free, all-ages, outdoor Concerts on the Dock in downtown Port Townsend. Sponsored by the Port Townsend Main Street Program, the concerts will be Thursdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, at the Pope Marine Park/City Dock Civic Plaza. Local vendors and a beer, wine and cider garden will contribute to the festive atmosphere. Help us “Go Green” by renting a reusable cup during the concert and returning it at the end of the show. So far this has dramatically reduced the amount plastic used at each concert. Seating opens at 4:30 pm, show starts at 5 pm and ends at 7:30 pm. Bring a chair or a blanket and settle in for some great tunes. For the list of bands, go to http://ptmainstreet.org/concerts-on-the-dock/.
The Jefferson County Fair welcomes you to this year’s Jammin’ Jungle-themed fair, August 9, 10 and 11. Meet farm animals up close. Cheer on riders as they put their horses through their paces. See the largest fruits, vegetables and flowers grown in Jefferson County. Hear music from fantastic bands and get your dancin’ boots on. Take a turn at riding the bull. Indulge in an elephant ear or a corn dog. Or watch the demo derby or mud drag. It’s everything a country fair should be—don’t miss it!
Open 10 am to 9 pm Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm Sunday. For more details and ticket info, visit http://jeffcofairgrounds.com.
The Olympic Music Festival (OMF) presents its 36th annual summer season in partnership with Centrum at Fort Worden. World-class chamber music performances take place at the Joseph F. Wheeler Theater, Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm, August 10 through September 8. Programming also includes a free family concert on Sunday, August 25 from 10:30 am – noon at the Northwest Maritime Center.
Since the beginning of his tenure in 2014, OMF Artistic Director Julio Elizalde has electrified audiences by presenting world-class artists on the Olympic Peninsula in programs that center on the classical chamber music repertoire and, on occasion, venture into styles such as American folk music and jazz. To purchase tickets and for more detailed information about the performances, go to www.olympicmusicfestival.org or call 360.385.9699.
Photo by Deja View Photography
On August 17, the beloved Annual Uptown Street Fair and Parade celebrates 29 years of fun in Uptown and includes great local music, the Port Townsend Arts & Crafts Fair, the Jefferson County Farmers Market, tasty food on the street, free art activities for families and much more.
Come hang out with the Uptown businesses and neighbors for the day at this colorful community event. The Arts and Crafts Fair and Farmers Market begin at 9 am; kids’ activities follow from 10 am – 3 pm, and music from 10 am – 4:45 pm. The parade and awards are at 2 pm. Come make a day of it in historic, pedestrian-friendly Uptown. Lawrence Street and Tyler Street are closed for the Street Fair, as well as the Farmers Market location on Polk Street. Bring your appetite—there will be delicious local food vendors at the event. Coordinated by the Port Townsend Main Street Program and sponsored by generous local businesses. For more information, go to http://ptmainstreet.org.
The Art Port Townsend 21st Annual Artist Studio Tour is a festival of the visual arts featuring an open studio tour of local artists. The tour is the final event of the annual Art Port Townsend Festival. Professional artists open their studios to provide demonstrations and display their work in many different mediums such as oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastels, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, woodworking, fabric arts, glass and a variety of mixed media. This annual event is a “must see” for regional artists and art lovers. There is no charge for the self-guided tour, running August 17-18 from 10 am – 4 pm. For more information and a map of the studios, go to https://northwindarts.org/programs/studio-tour/
A new thing. A fun thing. An arts thing. This summer will find a fresh alternative for music and arts enthusiasts in THING, a new multidisciplinary event August 24 and 25 at Fort Worden. Produced by Seattle Theatre Group (STG) and Adam Zacks—STG’s Chief Programming Office and founder of the Sasquatch! Festival—this two-day event features a unique offering of tightly curated programming including music, comedy, film, dance, food, podcasts, visual arts, and…a mentalist. Go to www.thingnw.org for tickets, schedule and program info.
Don’t miss the party in August. Visit us for an amazing getaway and enjoy all things Port Townsend!
A Few Upcoming Events in September—Save the Dates!
43rd Annual Wooden Boat Festival, September 6-8
Olympic Music Festival at Fort Worden, September 1, 7 & 8
Centrum’s Ukulele Festival, September 11-15
20th Annual Port Townsend Film Festival, September 20-22
What is happening in Port Townsend and East Jefferson County July 25, 2019
July 25, 2019 by bluegullinn
What’s Happening in Port Townsend
Mind-Reading & Collaboration with Phina and Joey Pipia at PT Library.
This week’s Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock: The Micaela Kingslight Band.
The monthly Candlelight Concert brings the Summertime Singers.
Out at Fort Worden State Park are the Jazz Port Townsend Mainstage Concerts.
On Friday and Saturday hear The Pipia Sisters: an Evening of Music.
Saturday support the Edensaw Cancer Benefit with Soul Siren.
Sunday afternoon is the Port Townsend Summer Band at Pope Marine Park.
Please check ferry alerts for the Port Townsend/Coupeville (Keystone) route before arriving at the terminal. Make your reservations now. The Summer 2019 Schedule is here.
Music & Entertainment
Thu, Jul 25th Centrum: Jazz Port Townsend – Jazz at Fort Worden |
Thu, Jul 25th Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock: The Micaela Kingslight Band |
Thu, Jul 25th Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock |
Thu, Jul 25th Discovery Bay Brewing: Taproom Trivia |
Thu, Jul 25th Disco Bay Detour: Open Mic Jam Session with Jillian |
Community
Thu, Jul 25th Salmon Wagon at Food Co-op |
Thu, Jul 25th Monthly East Jefferson County Memory Cafe |
Sat, Jul 27th Port Townsend Saturday Farmers Market |
Sat, Jul 27th The Mead Werks Tasting Room Open |
Sun, Jul 28th Chimacum Farmers Market |
Arts & Crafts
Thu, Jul 25th Art in the Library Exhibit |
Thu, Jul 25th Jefferson Museum: Lockwood “Woody” Dennis Prints |
Thu, Jul 25th Northwind Artist Showcase: Compare & Contrast |
Thu, Jul 25th Northwind Arts Center: Sea Rites |
Thu, Jul 25th The Gallery @ OAP Exhibit “Mother/Land” |
Film & Movies
Thu, Jul 25th Wheel-In Motor Movies |
Fri, Jul 26th Rose Theatre Movies |
Fri, Jul 26th Uptown Theatre Movies |
Fri, Jul 26th PT Library: Family Movie Night |
Dance & Movement
Fri, Jul 26th Nia Fusion |
Sun, Jul 28th Madrona MindBody Institute: Soulful Sunday – Community Dance Church |
Mon, Jul 29th Finnriver: Intro to Lindy Hop |
Wed, Jul 31st Centrum: Acoustic Blues Festival Blues Dance |
Fri, Aug 2nd Quimper Grange: Partner Dance to Live Music |
Outdoor Recreation
Thu, Jul 25th Port Townsend – San Juan Island Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 25th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 25th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Sat, Jul 27th PTMSC: Summer Puffin Cruises |
Sat, Aug 3rd PTMSC: Summer Puffin Cruises |
Theatre & Drama
Thu, Jul 25th PT Library: Mind-Reading & Collaboration with Phina and Joey Pipia |
Fri, Aug 2nd KCPT: Shakespeare in the Park – Merry Wives of Windsor |
Sat, Aug 3rd The Legend of Shakti and Shiva |
Reading & Lectures
Thu, Jul 25th The Practice of Personal Storytelling: A Panel Discussion |
Thu, Jul 25th The Castle: Silent Reading |
Tue, Jul 30th Finnriver: Philosophy in the Barn |
Wed, Jul 31st Disco Bay Detour: Wilderness Wednesdays |
Fri, Aug 2nd JCHS First Friday Lecture Series: Coast Salish Art & Storytelling |
Classes & Workshops
Thu, Jul 25th Prosper Bodyworks: Yoga for Backs |
Thu, Jul 25th Prosper Bodyworks: (Hot) Hatha Yoga |
Fri, Jul 26th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga Sculpt Friday |
Fri, Jul 26th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga for Backs Friday |
Fri, Jul 26th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga With Weights |
What’s Happening in Port Townsend & East Jefferson County! July 25, 2019
July 25, 2019 by bluegullinn
What’s Happening in Port Townsend
July 11, 2019 by bluegullinn
What’s Happening in Port Townsend
Many programs for kids this week!
Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock kicks off July 11th with Jim Nyby and the F Street Band.
Next Saturday is the Comic Book Swap Meet and all weekend is the annual Jefferson County Relay For Life.
Sunday is a PTMSC: Low Tide Walk.
Please check ferry alerts for the Port Townsend/Coupeville (Keystone) route before arriving at the terminal. Make your reservations now. The Summer 2019 Schedule is here.
Music & Entertainment
Thu, Jul 11th Discovery Bay Brewing: Open Mic |
Thu, Jul 11th Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock: Jim Nyby and the F Street Band |
Thu, Jul 11th Main Street’s Concerts on the Dock |
Thu, Jul 11th Finnriver: Books on Tap with Jefferson County Library |
Thu, Jul 11th Discovery Bay Brewing: Taproom Trivia |
Community
Thu, Jul 11th Salmon Wagon at Food Co-op |
Thu, Jul 11th PT Library: Discovery Bay Wild Bird Rescue |
Sat, Jul 13th Port Townsend Saturday Farmers Market |
Sat, Jul 13th Comic Book Swap Meet |
Sat, Jul 13th The Mead Werks Tasting Room Open |
Arts & Crafts
Thu, Jul 11th Art in the Library Exhibit |
Thu, Jul 11th Jefferson Museum: Lockwood “Woody” Dennis Prints |
Thu, Jul 11th Northwind Artist Showcase: Compare & Contrast |
Thu, Jul 11th Northwind Arts Center: Sea Rites |
Thu, Jul 11th The Gallery @ OAP Exhibit “Mother/Land” |
Film & Movies
Thu, Jul 11th Wheel-In Motor Movies |
Fri, Jul 12th Rose Theatre Movies |
Fri, Jul 12th Uptown Theatre Movies |
Dance & Movement
Fri, Jul 12th Nia Fusion |
Sat, Jul 13th Finnriver: Line Dancing Lessons on the Farm |
Sun, Jul 14th Madrona MindBody Institute: Soulful Sunday – Community Dance Church |
Outdoor Recreation
Thu, Jul 11th Port Townsend – San Juan Island Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 11th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 11th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Sat, Jul 13th PTMSC: Summer Puffin Cruises |
Reading & Lectures
Thu, Jul 11th PT Library: Jennifer Pharr Davis Talk |
Fri, Jul 12th Pippa’s Real Tea: Poetry Open Mic |
Mon, Jul 15th Reading by Author Camille Dungy |
Tue, Jul 16th Finnriver: Philosophy in the Barn |
Wed, Jul 17th Disco Bay Detour: Wilderness Wednesdays |
Classes & Workshops
Thu, Jul 11th Prosper Bodyworks: Yoga for Backs |
Thu, Jul 11th Prosper Bodyworks: (Hot) Hatha Yoga |
Fri, Jul 12th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga Sculpt Friday |
Fri, Jul 12th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga for Backs Friday |
Fri, Jul 12th Yoga at Madrona: Yoga With Weights |
What’s Happening in Port Townsend
July 4, 2019 by bluegullinn
What’s Happening in Port Townsend
Today is the Old School 4th of July Celebrationand the Port Townsend Summer Band Independence Day Concert!
Friday is the Concerts in the Barn: Carpe Diem String Quartet with special guest, Jeff Midkiff.
First Friday Lecture Series: Interpretations of S’Klallam Totem Poles.
Quimper Grange Dance Party with special guest Hiroko Dennis!
Summer Puffin Cruises with PT Marine Science Center and the annual Swan School Picnic on the Pier on Saturday.
Take in 1845 – Art Installation by Artist Paula Stokes and other shows in town at the Monthly Art Walk.
At The Palindrome: Reggie Garrett & the SnakeOil Peddlers with J.A.M.
Please check ferry alerts for the Port Townsend/Coupeville (Keystone) route before arriving at the terminal. Make your reservations now. NOTE:The Summer 2019 Schedule is here.
Music & Entertainment
Thu, Jul 4th Discovery Bay Brewing: 4th of July Party with the Retrofiers |
Thu, Jul 4th Centrum: Fiddles on the Fourth |
Thu, Jul 4th Finnriver: Fourth of July at Finnriver – Live Music with Gary Lilley & Ian Turner |
Thu, Jul 4th Old Alcohol Plant: 4th of July & Stringology |
Thu, Jul 4th Finnriver: Live Music with Jenny Jahlee |
Community
Thu, Jul 4th Salmon Wagon at Food Co-op |
Thu, Jul 4th Old School 4th of July Celebration |
Fri, Jul 5th First Friday Campus Tour of NW School of Wooden Boatbuilding |
Sat, Jul 6th Port Townsend Saturday Farmers Market |
Sat, Jul 6th Jefferson County Solar Seminar, Tour & EV Roundup |
Arts & Crafts
Thu, Jul 4th Art in the Library Exhibit |
Thu, Jul 4th Northwind Artist Showcase: Compare & Contrast |
Thu, Jul 4th Northwind Arts Center: Sea Rites |
Thu, Jul 4th PT Gallery: Diane Gale & Tom Saknit |
Thu, Jul 4th The Gallery @ OAP Exhibit “Mother/Land” |
Film & Movies
Thu, Jul 4th Wheel-In Motor Movies |
Fri, Jul 5th Rose Theatre Movies |
Fri, Jul 5th Uptown Theatre Movies |
Mon, Jul 8th Meaningful Movies: “Artifishal” |
Dance & Movement
Fri, Jul 5th Nia Fusion |
Fri, Jul 5th Quimper Grange: Dance Party Hiroko Dennis |
Sun, Jul 7th Madrona MindBody Institute: Soulful Sunday – Community Dance Church |
Outdoor Recreation
Thu, Jul 4th Port Townsend – San Juan Island Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 4th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Thu, Jul 4th 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour |
Sat, Jul 6th PTMSC: Summer Puffin Cruises |
Reading & Lectures
Fri, Jul 5th JCHS First Friday Lecture Series: Interpretations of S’Klallam Totem Poles |
Tue, Jul 9th Finnriver: Philosophy in the Barn |
Wed, Jul 10th Disco Bay Detour: Wilderness Wednesdays |
Thu, Jul 11th PT Library: Jennifer Pharr Davis Talk |
Classes & Workshops
Thu, Jul 4th Centrum: Festival of American Fiddle Tunes Workshop |
Thu, Jul 4th Yoga on the 4th |
Thu, Jul 4th Prosper Bodyworks: Yoga for Backs |
Thu, Jul 4th Prosper Bodyworks: (Hot) Hatha Yoga |
Fri, Jul 5th Centrum: Festival of American Fiddle Tunes Workshop |
Start Your Summer with a Bang in Port Townsend!
July 1, 2019 by bluegullinn
Start Your Summer with a Bang in Port Townsend!
Posted on July 1, 2019 by EnjoyPT

Start Your Summer with a Bang in Port Townsend!
Get set for fun on the 4th and some of the hottest music in the Pacific NW.
Summer is in full swing and promises to heat up even more with blazing hot events and activities throughout the month. We have performances that will get your blood pumping, your heart thumping and your feet stomping. Bring your family, your best friend, your sweetheart or come solo, but whatever you do, be sure to check out all the fun. Enjoy Port Townsend this summer!
Get set for fun on the 4th and some of the hottest music in the Pacific NW.
Summer is in full swing and promises to heat up even more with blazing hot events and activities throughout the month. We have performances that will get your blood pumping, your heart thumping and your feet stomping. Bring your family, your best friend, your sweetheart or come solo, but whatever you do, be sure to check out all the fun. Enjoy Port Townsend this summer!
Celebrate America’s birthday at Fort Worden and get ready for the biggest and best party of the year at the “Old School” 4th of July. Don’t miss an epic lineup of live entertainment, food vendors, field games, free root beer floats, a tug-of-war, watermelon eating contest, and a community portrait, all culminating in a glorious laser light show at 10:20 pm. The festivities begin at 4 pm on the parade grounds at Fort Worden. Headline sponsors for the event are Thunderbull Productions, the City of Port Townsend, the Friends of Fort Worden and Seattle Theater Group, along with many local businesses.
An ”Old School” 4th overlaps with Centrum’s Festival of Fiddle Tunes, a week-long immersion workshop presenting fiddle styles from specific regions of the world. Two performances will honor this American holiday: Fiddles on the Fourth is at 1:30 pm in the McCurdy Pavilion and at 7:30 pm, enjoy Fireworks and Fiddles featuring artists from Iowa, Georgia, Western Canada, New England and Louisiana Cajuns, also at the McCurdy Pavilion. For tickets, go to www.centrum.org.
photo by David Conklin
Rock the dock this summer at the free, all-ages, outdoor Concerts on the Dock, in downtown Port Townsend on the waterfront across from City Hall. The series, sponsored by the Port Townsend Main Street Program, runs every Thursday, July 11 through August 29, at the Pope Marine Park/City Dock Civic Plaza. Come to dance, see friends, enjoy a drink and have a bite. Local vendors and a beer/wine/cider garden will contribute to the festive atmosphere. Seating opens at 4:30 pm, show starts at 5 pm and ends at 7:30 pm. Bring chairs or blankets and settle in for some great tunes. For more into and details about the bands that are playing, go to www.ptmainstreet.org/concerts-on-the-dock/.
Centrum offers the Free Fridays at the Fort concert series July 5 through August 4, showcasing fiddle tunes, jazz and blues on the lawn of the Commons at Fort Worden and is free to the public. Performances begin at noon and go until 1 pm. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, a picnic lunch or grab something to go at Reveille in the Commons. In the rare event of inclement weather, alternative plans will be posted on www.centrum.org.
The wildly popular Olympic Music Festival presents its 36th annual summer concert series, offering 12 world-class performances of chamber music and other styles over six weekends, July 13 and 14, and August 10 through September 8. Concerts are presented in partnership with Centrum at Fort Worden.
Opening weekend celebrates the festival season with Art of the Violin I. Superstar Sarah Change joins pianist and OMF Artistic Director Julio Elizalde for an exclusive recital to kick off the summer season. Together, the duo explores treasures of the violin and piano repertoire including Beethoven’s powerful “Moonlight” and “Appassionata sonatas,” Bazzini’s demonic Round of the Goblins; and Ravel’s dazzling gypsy fantasy, Tzigane. Buy tickets early as space if limited and expected to sell out: www.olympicmusicfestival.org
Jazz Port Townsend is the perfect opportunity to experience excellent musicians, soak up a weekend of jazz in a seaside paradise and participate in a wide array of mainstage and nightclub performances, July 25-27. Artistic Director John Clayton inspires a true sense of family during this special week of events that showcases internationally-known performers in new and unexpected pairings. Jazz Port Townsend has emerged as one of the leading jazz festivals in the nation.
Festival mainstage performances take place in Fort Worden State Park’s 1200-seat McCurdy Pavilion. Jazz Port Townsend also features the popular Jazz in the Clubs series, in venues throughout Fort Worden. Come alive with the sounds of jazz. Jazz in the Clubs: Thursday, July 25, 8-11 pm, Friday and Saturday, July 26 and 27, 10 pm – 12:30 am. Mainstage Concerts: Friday, July 26, 7:30 pm, Saturday, July 27, 1:30 pm and 7:30 pm. For more information, go to www.centrum.org/jazz-port-townsend-performances/.
A few upcoming events later this summer—Save the Dates!
Port Townsend Acoustic Blues Festival, July 28-August 4. www.centrum.org
Olympic Music Festival at Fort Worden, August 10-September 8, www.olympicmusicfestival.org
Key City Public Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park, The Merry Wives of Windsor, August 1-25, www.keycitypublictheare.org
Jefferson County Fair, August 9-11, www.jeffcofairgrounds.com
Uptown Street Fair, August 17, www.ptmainstreet.org
Concerts on the Dock, every Thursday in August, www.ptmainstreet.org
Wooden Boat Festival, September 6-8, www.woodenboat.org
Pack up your dancin’ shoes, favorite shorts, best hat, music-loving friends and family, and head to Port Townsend for some epic fun and sizzling hot summer events this month. We can’t wait to see you!