This upcoming weekend offers a variety of events for nature enthusiasts, car lovers, and tea aficionados. Whether you're interested in learning about the environment, showcasing your vehicle, or enjoying a whimsical tea party, there's something for everyone.
A celebration of nature takes center stage with the Yakima Area Arboretum hosting its annual ArborFest event on Saturday. This family-friendly gathering invites visitors to explore the theme "River of Life: Every Drop Matters!" Through interactive displays and educational activities provided by local organizations, attendees can deepen their understanding of how water connects plants, trees, and wildlife. Attendees will also have the chance to take home free saplings while enjoying food from local vendors. Meanwhile, at Sarg Hubbard Park, community members can join Coffee Outside, participate in a volunteer cleanup, or embark on a scenic full moon bike ride along the Greenway.
For those with a passion for automobiles, Sunnyside High School hosts its 21st annual Show and Shine car exhibition. This longstanding tradition serves as a fundraiser for the graduating class's celebration. Participants are encouraged to display their classic or modern vehicles, with categories ranging from bicycles to unfinished projects. Spectators can enjoy live music, vendor booths, raffles, and children’s entertainment. On Sunday, families can head to Helen McCabe Park near Ellensburg, where the Kittitas Environmental Education Network invites guests to discover the beauty of wildflowers during a guided walk around the Yakima Canyon Interpretive Center.
Community engagement fosters connection and appreciation for shared interests. Events like these provide opportunities to learn, share experiences, and celebrate local culture. By participating in these gatherings, individuals not only enrich their own lives but also contribute positively to the vitality of their communities. Embracing such initiatives strengthens bonds and promotes environmental awareness, creativity, and camaraderie among participants.
A vibrant celebration of automotive history unfolded in Knights Ferry last Saturday, April 5, as over a hundred gleaming classic cars and trucks graced the town. The Knights Ferry Classic Car Show, an annual tradition organized by the Community Club, not only showcases stunning vehicles but also serves as a fundraiser for various local projects. This year marked the event's eleventh edition, though one year was missed due to the pandemic. Despite the limitation of space on Main Street, the show managed to accommodate 130 entries, drawing enthusiasts from across the region. With ideal weather conditions, the day offered attendees the chance to admire meticulously restored automobiles, listen to live music, enjoy food and drinks, and participate in a raffle. Many car owners shared their restoration journeys while others showcased their vehicles for sale or still under renovation.
Knights Ferry’s picturesque setting provided the perfect backdrop for this year's event. Miles Shuper, who has coordinated the show for many years, expressed pride in the community support that has helped raise nearly $80,000 since its inception. The turnout was impressive, with people flocking to see the diverse collection of vintage vehicles lining the main thoroughfare. Each car had its own unique story, often told through detailed storyboards illustrating the transformation process. Some were up for grabs, either fully restored or nearing completion, while others simply served as conversation starters among passionate collectors.
Beyond the cars themselves, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement thanks to additional attractions. Live performances added musical flair, complemented by numerous food stalls offering tasty treats. Attendees participated in a raffle draw featuring dozens of enticing prizes, enhancing the festive mood. Furthermore, several vehicle owners proudly received trophies recognizing their craftsmanship and dedication. These elements combined to create a memorable experience for all visitors.
Shuper praised the exceptional teamwork behind the event's success, crediting the hardworking volunteers who ensure everything runs smoothly. Their efforts allow him to focus more on overseeing rather than micromanaging. "It feels great knowing how much everyone contributes," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of loyal supporters who make the show possible year after year. As the sun set on another triumphant Knights Ferry Classic Car Show, it became clear that this gathering transcends mere car appreciation—it strengthens community bonds and fosters camaraderie among participants.