Gig Harbor Guide

There are many outstanding events in our community to round out this beautiful summer season, and into fall. Events include festivals, runs, walks and performances, and some great autumn options. Information on these events as well as tempting hotel deals and fabulous dining can be found by visiting Gig Harbor’s community website www.gigharborguide.com.

Right now, at the Harbor History, the “15th Annual Juried Maritime Art Exhibition” is on display. This exhibit showcases maritime themed works of art. Also at the museum are their permanent exhibits and special projects such as the Midway Schoolhouse and the Shenandoah. Did you also know volunteers are welcome to come out and help restore Gig Harbor’s crown jewel of historic boats, the Shenandoah, on Fridays and Saturdays anytime from 10am to 1pm? The process of restoration began way back in 2000 when the boat was donated to the museum. This unique project provides a hands-on learning opportunity to our community. Getting the public on board has been the ultimate goal for the museum. Plus, the museum is always looking for new volunteers. Volunteers are able to stay and help for as long or as little as they would like.

Here are some historical highlights of the Shenandoah project:

1925 - Shenandoah launched from the Skansie Ship Building Company
Tony Janovich purchased Shenandoah from the original owners in 1967
March 2000, she was donated to Harbor History Museum
In February 2003, the Shenandoah was pulled from water and relocated to Harborview site of museum.
2006 - Documentation and stabilization phase begins with Coastal Heritage Alliance
In 2009, the museum receives 2-year Washington State Heritage Grant for vessel restoration. Vessel moved to permanent site, additional grants provide funding for cradle.
In 2011, Shipwright Nate Slater was hired by the museum to run the restoration project. The museum has set up a working boat shop and developed volunteer programs. The project has included securing and prepping wood to be used in restoration; designing and installing stairs and guard railing and additional stabilization of hull plus installing additional supports.
Sept 2012 - Stairs complete, restoration begins and continues today.
Stop by and view the Shenandoah, and the entire museum, during business hours, Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 5pm.

But wait, there is more. Additional opportunities exist all throughout the fall season. Harbor Hounds walk the town on September 13th – registration is required for this furry dog walk. Enjoy vendors, displays and exhibits throughout Skansie and Donkey Creek Parks. The 12th Annual Harbor Hounds Charity Dog Walk benefits the Prison Pet Partnership, and the many charities supported by the Gig Harbor Midday Rotary Club. Visit www.harborhounds.com for details. If you haven’t participated before, come on down! It is truly the fluffiest event in town!

On September 19th – 21st we welcome the Annual Open Studio Tour from 10am-5pm. Have the unique ability to explore artist studios as they are open to the public during this FREE three-day event. Learn more at www.gigharboropenstudiotour.org.

Back for the 8th year is the Donkey Creek Chum Festival, September 20th from 10am-4pm – It takes a fish to raise a village is the mantra – and celebrating the salmon, our fishing heritage, and the environment is what it is all about. This event takes places at the Harbor History Museum.

The hugely popular Glass Pumpkin Patch returns to Uptown Gig Harbor on September 27th from 9am-4pm. This event features 2000 hand blown glass pumpkins crafted by local artisans. This is a fun, and colorful, shopping opportunity.

On September 28th the Race for a Soldier Half Marathon takes to the streets in Gig Harbor north. You can support this amazing event that helps soldiers give themselves “Permission to Start Dreaming” by running, volunteering or simply cheering on the participants. Eight a.m. start time – learn more at www.RaceForASoldier.org.

Enjoy all that the season has to offer here in Gig Harbor. Learn more about these and other Gig Harbor events and activities at www.gigharborguide.com.