If you think that “there’s nothing to do” in Yakima, we’ll keep you up to date the best we can on all that’s happening right here in the Valley!
NAMI WALKS
Come walk to raise awareness about mental health and support local NAMI programs that provide free education, support, and advocacy for mental health. The walk is Saturday, May 31st, 10 AM- 1 PM at Franklin Park. There will be resource tables, networking, a one-hour walk, speakers, and a butterfly release. Google Nami Walks Yakima for detail or Sign up to walk at namiwalks.com
Link for FB Page: https://www.namiwalks.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=1783
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RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR BURNING
Residential outdoor burning has kicked according to the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA). The agency reminds residents that smoke in the distance is likely from a controlled burn rather than an emergency. It is advised to verify the source of smoke before contacting emergency services. Residents are encouraged to ensure they are burning safely and legally by checking regulations and permit requirements with Yakima Clean Air. For those looking to avoid the risk of fire spreading, the “Chip it, Don’t Burn it” events offer an alternative. Yard waste can be brought to these events, which will be held throughout the spring and summer on the following dates and locations:
May 31 at Station 52
June 28 at Station 53
July 12 at Station 54
August 2 at Station 53
September 13 at Station 51
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YVCC FINANCIAL AID WORKSHOPS
Yakima Valley College will host multiple financial aid workshops over the next several months aimed at helping students complete the FAFSA and WASFA. The sessions will take place at both the Yakima Campus at the Deccio Higher Education Center and the Grandview Campus at the Grandview Main building. Staff will be in attendance to answer questions in English and Spanish.
Yakima sessions:
May 21
2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Deccio Higher Education Center, Building 8, Room 210
Students will need to bring:
Social security number or card (if applicable)
DACA work authorization number or card (if applicable)
Driver’s license or state identification card (if applicable)
2023 tax return and parent(s) 2023 tax return if born after Jan. 1, 2001
2023 income data (W-2s and 2023 tax return) if born before January 2001, are married, have dependents, are serving in active duty or a veteran
Valid email address for establishing Federal Student Aid ID
Parents/guardians will need to bring:
Social security numbers or cards and dates of birth (if applicable)
Income tax returns and W-2s for 2023
Valid email address for establishing Federal Student Aid ID
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THE ELK’S CAR SHOW
Make plans to attend the Yakima Elks Lodge 318 car show on May 31st from 9 AM to 2 PM, in SELAH, Washington. The “Elks Car Show”is more than just a celebration of vehicles – it’s a chance for car enthusiasts to come together, share their passion, and enjoy a fun-filled day on the beautiful Yakima Elks Lodge #318 golf course in Selah, WA. Open to all vehicles, with food, games, door prizes, raffles and lots of fun. All proceeds go to Elks Charities. Come out and join us for a day of fun and fellowship. $20 entry fee. As always spectators are welcome and free!
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GRAPE TO GLASS GALA
Yakima Valley College (YVC) is set to host its 16th Annual Grape to Glass Gala. This event, held at YVC’s Kaminski Conference Center, aims to raise funds for scholarships for students in the Vineyard and Winery Technology Program. The gala will feature a winemaker’s dinner with a gourmet meal by The Lion Chef and desserts from Scratch Bakery, YVC said in a release. This year’s theme is “African Safari,” and attendees can enjoy wine pairings from YVC’s own Yakima Valley Vintners. Alumni from Treveri Cellars and Wheel Line Cider will also contribute to the happy hour offerings. Tickets for the gala on Saturday, May 17, at 6:00 p.m. are priced at $110 per person or $600 for a table of six. They can be purchased online or at Yakima Valley Vintners Tasting Rooms. Sponsorship opportunities are available for those who wish to make a larger impact. For more information, contact Annette Wattenbarger, the Tasting Room Coordinator, at 509.574.4906.
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SUNNYSIDE SUMMER ALE FEST
The 9th annual Sunnyside Summer Ale Fest will return on June 21, bringing brews, food and live music to downtown Sunnyside. The event will be held in Centennial Square from 5 to 10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on summer ale fest dot com.
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Dye Hard 5K Run
Date: June 28, 2025
Venue: SOZO Sports Complex at 2200 S 36th Ave, Yakima, WA
Event Description: The Dye Hard 5K is an untimed nighttime running event that provides participants with an opportunity to have fun with friends and family while getting covered in fluorescent colored powder in the dark, under the glow of black lights. And don't forget about the post-event party with music, dancing and even more powder provided by Legends Casino and Hotel.