Just in time for summer, things are opening back up! We once again can attend beloved events that are often highlights of our year. The City of Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation, along with presenting sponsor Chick-fil-A, is just as excited as you are to see the return of Lacey In Tune at Huntamer Park. It’s just not summer without this incredible series that is free for all to enjoy.
Starting July 6 and running through August 10, Tuesdays will be full of entertainment the entire family will love! The shows start at 6:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to pick-up that barbecue to-go, grab some blankets or chairs, and head to the park. This year’s line up includes comedy acts, magic and music, including a Harry Potter-themed night you won’t want to miss! The well-known Jeff Evans will dazzle you with magic while Alex Zerbe will make you laugh until your sides hurt.
Children’s Entertainment Series
- July 6: Alex Zerbe, zaniac comedy juggler
- July 13: Eric Ode, original music for kids and families
- July 20: Buck and Elizabeth, musical comedy and ventriloquism
- July 27: Ruth and Emila, mom/daughter kid’s music duo
- August 3: Tonks and Aurors, Harry Potter wizard’s rock
- August 10: Jeff Evans, magic show
Need a break during your lunch hour? Head to Huntamer Park at 12 p.m. for Lacey In Tune’s summer concert series. From July 7 through August 11, you can get some fresh air, sunshine (hopefully!) and relax while listening to some amazing artists. Each week is a different genre, so you can experience everything from traditional jazz and Sinatra, to rock. “Every year we are excited to welcome back the Army National Guard Rock Band,” says Sieler. “Full Metal Racket has performed at our series every year since 2008! They are back again!”
Concert Series
- July 7: Washington National Guard Patriot Brass, traditional jazz
- July 14: Dueling Crooners, sounds of Sinatra and more
- July 21: The Electrics, midtown to Maroon 5
- July 28: Washington National Guard Full Metal Racket, rock band
- August 4: Swantowne, variety of music
- August 11: Dmitri Matheny, jazz: Stevie Wonder Songbook
If you are looking for a fun and inexpensive date night or family night, head to Lacey in Tune on Friday nights! Four fun films are planned for this summer that make for great outings with your kids, significant other, or friends. Lacey in Tune has a mix of classics and new favorites that everyone is sure to enjoy. And watching a movie under the stars at the park is an experience unlike any other. The movies are projected onto a giant, 18-foot-square screen that brings them to life. If you haven’t done it, this is your year! Movies start at 8 p.m. at Huntamer Park. “While we wait for it to get dark enough, we have some fun games folks can play for a chance to win great prizes provided by our sponsors!” shares Sieler.
Movies in the Park Series
- July 16: “The Goonies “(PG)
- July 23: “The Croods: A New Age” (PG)
- July 30: “Wonder Woman 1984” (PG-13)
- August 6: “Jumanji: The Next Level” (PG-13)
A Few Changes
While it’s amazing that things are returning to normal, we still have guidelines that must be followed. At this time, in Phase 3, the State requires events to follow certain COVID-19 safety measures including: masks worn by anyone over the age of 5, small group gatherings up to 15 people, which need to be 6 feet from other groups, and capacity limited to 50% of outdoor area, explains Sieler.
In order to follow these rules, Lacey in Tune will have free pre-registration that is required for entry. You can register on the City of Lacey website. “This allows us to update guests about any changes or reminders of rules, and be sure we don’t exceed capacity,” Sieler continues. “Governor Inslee has stated that on June 30 mandates and restrictions will be lifted, but at this time, we are not sure if that includes every aspect or not, so we are proceeding as if we continue in phase 3 because we don’t know specifics. Our hope is all things like crowd gathering limits will go away and all who want to come enjoy the shows can!”
In addition to state guidance, Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation will also be following Thurston County Health Department guidance to the series.
Be sure to bring your own seating and blankets, and leave space between other parties. You are encouraged to bring your own food to enjoy, as currently no food vendors are committed. Check the Lacey In Tune webpage for updates as this may change. Otherwise, picnic baskets from home are great, or stop by one of our amazing local restaurants and grab something to go on your way to the park.
When you get to the park, be ready to check in at a welcome tent. Then look for the group circles marked out, choose a spot and get ready to be entertained! With good food, good company and great entertainment, Lacey In Tune is sure to make this summer one you will remember long after sweater season returns.
For more information and to register, visit the Lacey In Tune webpage.