PenMet Parks and the Peninsula Art League are collaborating to enhance park, recreation, and art-related opportunities for the Gig Harbor Peninsula. Bringing the Peninsula Art League’s 38th Summer Art Festival to the picturesque Sehmel Homestead Park in Gig Harbor, WA is a wonderful result of this collaboration. Blending the beauty of nature with the creativity of art, this festival offers something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to families looking for a fun-filled outdoor weekend.

The 38th Summer Art Festival will feature 120 artists (consisting of paintings, woodwork, pottery, jewelry, photography, fiber arts and more)! The appeal of the Summer Art Festival lies not only in its diverse offerings but also in its role as a unifying force within the community — bringing art to the community and fostering connections among artists and residents. Free to all, the festival serves as a celebration of creativity and community spirit, drawing people together in a shared appreciation of art and culture.

By joining forces, PenMet Parks and the Peninsula Art League can increase art-related activities and opportunities through workshops and other events at locations such as the Sehmel Homestead Park Volunteer Vern Pavilion. Peninsula Art League will provide volunteers for PenMet Parks’ art programming and artwork procurement for its new Community Recreation Center and other facilities. 

“We recognize our growing community needs more park and recreation opportunities, including access to art,” said Ally Bujacich, Executive Director of PenMet Parks. “We are delighted to partner with Peninsula Art League to enhance the services each organization currently provides that benefit our community.” 

“PenMet Parks is a valuable community asset and a wonderful steward of beautiful parks, trails, and gathering spaces,” said Colette Smith, President of Peninsula Art League. “Peninsula Art League is very pleased to collaborate with such a strong community partner to increase opportunities for our community to gather, play, and create.” 

Date: July 20-21, 2024

Time: Saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location: Sehmel Homestead Park, 10123 78th Ave NW, Gig Harbor, WA

1. Diverse Art Showcase: Explore the works of up to 120 artists spanning various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, pottery, jewelry, glass, fiber art, and literature.

2. Peninsula Art League Showcase: Experience the talent of local artists with a special exhibition by members of the Peninsula Art League.

3. PenMet Parks Kids’ Corner and Playground: Engage young minds with creative activities and let them enjoy the expansive playground, ensuring fun for the whole family.

4. Live Music by DJIceMike: Groove to the beats spun by DJIceMike, who will also introduce you to talented local musicians performing live, adding rhythm and energy to the atmosphere.

5. Beer Garden: Savor the finest local brews from Gig Harbor Brewing and 7 Seas Brewing in the festival's beer garden, a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the ambiance.

6. Delicious Food Options: Treat your taste buds to a variety of culinary delights from food vendors including Una’s Kettle Korn, Millville Pizza, BBQ2U, Kona Ice, Pink Gorilla, and Harbor Haute Dogs.

7. Kiwanis Community Food Drive: Participate in a noble cause by dropping off non-perishable food items at the Kiwanis Tent by the Pavilion, supporting those in need in the community.

8. Free Shuttle Service: Take advantage of the free shuttle service from Gig Harbor High School and Franciscan Health Medical Pavilion, making transportation convenient for all attendees.

By attending the festival, you're not just enjoying a weekend of art and entertainment but also supporting a noble cause. Proceeds from the event go towards scholarships for art students from local high schools, Peninsula Art League members continuing their artistic education, and funding for art shows, workshops, and educational programs benefiting the Gig Harbor area and its surroundings.

Mark your calendars and join us for a weekend filled with creativity, culture, and community spirit at the Peninsula Art League’s 38th Summer Art Festival. Your presence will not only enrich your own experience but also contribute to the growth and development of the local art scene. We look forward to welcoming you in July!

Peninsula Art League is a non-profit organization that endeavors to give back to the community. For over four decades, the Peninsula Art League (“PAL”) has supported and nurtured the area's diverse artistic community. PAL brings together creative people from throughout Pierce and Kitsap Counties to share ideas, explore new techniques, and take part in activities that encourage and promote the arts.

Current membership includes over 240 painters, printers, sculptors, photographers, potters, jewelry designers, glass and enameling artists, fiber artists, writers, and art lovers.

PenMet Parks exists to enhance the quality of life by providing parks and recreation opportunities for our community. The District manages nearly 650 acres of parkland in unincorporated Pierce County on the Gig Harbor Peninsula and provides hundreds of recreational programs and events every year for all ages and abilities. In 2024 PenMet Parks will celebrate 20 years of being deeply rooted and boldly growing in our community.