Summer Events in Kitsap That We’re Excited About

Whether you’re new to Kitsap County or simply looking for fun things to do, there are so many summer events to look forward to here. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites. While it’s difficult to only highlight some, our selection will appeal to a range of people. All of these are family-friendly, local, and low or no cost.

Fireworks Over Sinclair Inlet in Port Orchard

On July 3rd, you can start the Independence Day celebration with live bands, food and craft vendors, and fireworks. It all begins at 4:00 PM with fireworks starting at 10:00 PM. All the action will be at the Port of Bremerton Marina Park in Port Orchard on the waterfront. Of course, the fireworks will also be visible from the Bremerton waterfront. This event is part of the Fathoms O’ Fun Festival, which was created in 1967. The festival includes many other events, like the 57th annual Grand Parade on June 27th.

Kingston’s 4th of July

While there are many entertaining summer events that celebrate the 4th of July here in Kitsap County, we wanted to specifically highlight the festivities in Kingston. Kingston’s 4th of July parade has the only fireworks show in the North Kitsap area. The whole day is filled with free and low cost activities for kids and adults. From 8:00 – 11:00 AM, there will be a pancake breakfast at Kingston Cove Yacht Club (KCYC), and the parade starts at noon. Additionally, KCYC will be providing free hot dogs for kids right after the parade. There will also be a ball race, a car show, live music, and food vendors. If you have little ones, head to Village Green Community Center to experience free fun at Tiny Town. You can visit any time from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Village Green’s park will have inflatable bounce houses and other exciting activities for kids. If you plan to catch the parade, arrive early. It’s very popular and parking is limited. The parade runs through downtown Kingston, following Highway 104.

Free Outdoor Concerts

Here in Kitsap County, we love our free live music events, especially in the summer. On Tuesdays in July, there are free concerts at Evergreen Rotary Park Amphitheater in Bremerton from 5:30PM – 7:00 PM. Come for the entertainment and the waterfront sunsets. These free family-friendly performances feature classic rock, Caribbean rhythms, and more. Bring your lawn chairs or a blanket and enjoy a lively evening with a great view.

Another fun option on Tuesdays at 6:00 PM is Poulsbo’s “Summer Nights at the Bay”. This concert series is downtown in Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park and goes through July and part of August. Highlights include the Navy Band Northwest on July 7th and Deseo Carmin on July 28th.

On Wednesdays in July and August, you can check out Bainbridge Island’s summer concerts. They’ll be at Battle Point Park from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Local favorites like Backstreet Jellyroll and LeRoy Bell are included in the lineup. Please note that parking is limited so come early, bike, walk, or carpool.

Kitsap Water Trails “Ride the Tide” from Tracyton to Port Orchard

“Ride the Tide” is the annual Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trail Paddle. It’s happening on July 18th and locals who’ve participated rave about this family-friendly event. Each year, “Ride the Tide” brings attention to Kitsap’s 371 mile national water trail. This paddling excursion is about eight tide assisted miles and takes approximately two to three hours to complete. Starting at the Tracyton Boat Ramp, participants will paddle south through the Port Washington Narrows and past Bremerton with the current. It finishes at the Farmers Market in downtown Port Orchard. Get your kayak or paddle board ready (or you can rent one), and register online.

Summer Events for Artists and Art Lovers

Bremerton’s First Friday Artwalk is in Downtown Bremerton, Charleston, Lebo, and Manette. It’s every first Friday from 5:00 PM – 8:00 pm, rain or shine. This time of year, it’s especially fun to get out and explore Bremerton’s vibrant creative scene. Many businesses participate in this event, so it’s an excellent way to check out different shops, peruse the beautiful art on display, enjoy local bites and live music.

Another way to celebrate summer and the arts is by going to the BIMA Block Party. It’s a free event on August 8th (12:00 – 8:00 PM) at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. There will be art activities, free museum admission, access to exhibitions, delicious food, a beer garden, and live music across five stages. Everyone is welcome and local businesses nearby will be participating too. Fletcher Bay Winery, Bainbridge Brewing, Agate Restaurant, KiDiMu (Kids Discovery Museum), and Bluehouse Interior will all be open. And, up the street, Rockin’ Ruby’s Records will have their own special stage and musical roster.

The Poulsbo Arts Festival is also a wonderful way to fuel your creativity this season. It’s the third weekend in August, from August 14th through August 16th. For over 40 years, this festival has been celebrated in downtown Poulsbo’s Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park. You’ll find photography, ceramics, jewelry, and much more. You’ll be able to view a range of handmade arts and crafts while listening to talented musicians and watching art demonstrations.

Bremerton’s Blackberry Festival

Our list of summer events wouldn’t be complete without the beloved Blackberry Festival. It will be at the Bremerton Boardwalk from September 5th – 7th. With over 150 vendors offering handmade goods, tasty blackberry treats, and berry-themed merch, it’s sure to be a sweet success. You’ll find blackberry BBQ wings, lemonade, wine, crepes, jam, pie, ice cream, donuts, marinades, soaps, candles, and much more. Yes, the Pacific Northwest’s favorite fruit will be everywhere! Best of all, this festival raises money for parks, scholarships, and local non-profit services. As a Bremerton Rotary Foundation event, all proceeds go back into the Bremerton community.

Learn More

Want even more fun things to do in Kitsap County? Check out the unique Charleston Business District, or learn about local horseback riding and mountain biking trails. Also, our Kitsap Events Guide (below) is full of helpful information. You’ll find annual and recurring events listed by month with links to learn more.

Happy summer!