Showcase Tacoma Follow Up and Pictures

Today we volunteered at Showcase Tacoma.  We arrived in downtown a bit early, giving us the chance to scope out the scene.  We got off the light rail at the Convention Center and walked through Pacific Plaza, Art Alley, through UWT and across the Bridge to the Museum of Glass.  We observed glassblowing legend Billy Morris in the Hot Shop (along with swarms of his female fans), before heading back to our info table at the base of UWT’s steps. 

There was a steady stream of people along Pacific and meandering through the grounds of UWT.  As we listened to a steady drum beat with a hint of Dave Matthews, then Beck, from across the street, we answered questions about the festival, and about Tacoma in general. 

A couple from Washington D.C. stumbled onto the event and wanted to know more about Tacoma and what’s going on here.  There was a hip-hop artist rocking out by a row of port-a-potties, which made for an exciting bathroom break.  A longtime Federal Way resident stopped to tell us how much she loves Tacoma and how she brings all of her out-of-town visitors here.  A man played a didgeridoo for us.  We sold one gentleman on the merits of the Grand Cinema.  We were able to relish several bites of a steaming hot smoked turkey leg from the Harmon – until two aggressive yellow jackets dive-bombed our tent, pursuing said turkey leg with an admirable vengeance.  A group of young folks asked if Tacoma is like this every weekend.  “It’s exciting here, but maybe not… every weekend,” I said. 

It was fantastic to see so many people exploring our downtown…all backgrounds, colors, shapes and sizes.  From a man in a work kilt – folks with puppies – to an elderly lady with a cane – children on their parents’ shoulders – to punk or hippie artist/musicians.  Many commented that they love what UWT has done for downtown, but few had actually been on the campus – or downtown.  Showcase Tacoma 2006 was a perfect opportunity to experience the new Tacoma.

This day had it all.  The weather was absolutely perfect and we think word will get around so next year’s event will be even better.