Celebrate 20 Years of Tacoma Arts Month this October
October 2021 marks the 20th anniversary of Tacoma Arts Month – 31 days dedicated to celebrating the arts in our community. The month is full of virtual and in-person arts and culture programs with something for everyone to enjoy: music, dance and theater performances; visual art exhibits; literary readings; lectures; workshops; film screenings and cultural events.
“Tacoma Arts Month 2021 is extremely special! Two decades have passed since its inception and our local artists continue to inspire, encourage, and reignite imagination for our city. The pandemic has only highlighted the importance of outlets to support our mental and emotional health and the arts have responded enthusiastically,” said Tacoma Arts Commission Chair Rosie Ayala. “I hope everyone has an opportunity to engage and spread the word so that we can all lean into the dynamic world of the creative community.”
Tacoma Arts Month Events:
Arts and Cultural Programming – Tacoma-based artists and organizations are hosting a wide range of arts and culture programs for all ages - both virtual and in-person. Event Listing
Arts at the Armory – Over 90 Tacoma artists, working in all artistic disciplines and mediums, welcome guests to the spacious Tacoma Armory (1001 S. Yakima Ave.) for a unique interactive arts experience on Oct. 16 and Oct. 17. Artists will be sharing their work and their artistic process; guests can ask questions, and purchase one-of-a-kind creations. Enjoy live music by Kareem Kandi World Orchestra and Stephanie Anne Johnson. This event is free and for all ages. Learn more.
20th Anniversary Special Program – Tune in to the 20th Anniversary special video program celebrating the arts in Tacoma. This 30-minute program will include a blessing from the Puyallup Tribe as well as performances by Tacoma Poet Laureate Lydia K. Valentine, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Tacoma Refugee Choir, Write253, Trio Guadalevin, and Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center. It will also honor our collective community for the work they have done during the past year to buoy spirits and bring us together in new ways. Program will air on TV Tacoma.
AMOCAT Arts Awards – The AMOCAT Arts Awards recognize the people and organizations who positively impact the community with their passion, innovation, and commitment to the arts. This year’s awards will honor our collective community for the work they have done (big and small) to uplift and bring community together these past two years. Community members are invited to honor those people who have made a difference in Tacoma. Find out more about the AMOCAT Arts Awards.