For the past four years, the last day of school has had new meaning for youth in and around Silverdale.

It’s the day for the Party at the Pier.

This year’s party at the Pier will be Tuesday, June 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Silverdale Waterfront.

The event, which is sponsored by a number of community businesses and organizations, offers a day of fun for kids of all ages.

Shane McGraw, of Prime Lending, who has been the coordinator of the event since its beginning, said this year’s event will be a safe place for kids to be, following the end of the school year.

McGraw says there has always been some kind of end-of-the-school-year party in Silverdale. He remembered them from when he was young. But over the years, the party that was traditionally at the pier on the Silverdale waterfront became something of a menace.

There were activities taking place that weren’t healthy, he said, such as drinking, drugs and violence.

From that, however, grew the Party at the Pier, which is a safe and enjoyable environment for young people as their official summer begins.

Last year, more than 4,000 students attended. And the group putting the event together expects at least that many people to attend this year.

The event will include music and entertainment by Scott DJ-Emcee Fijolek. Live music is also planned.

There will be a temporary track by the Bremerton RC (Remote Control) Raceway, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament by the Kitsap Admirals local ABA basketball team, bouncy houses and activities for younger kids and food.

Everything is provided for free and the event is open to the public.

Organizers include Mark Middleton and Kevin Pentz from New Life Fellowship in Silverdale.

Other sponsors include Heartland Toyota, Advantage Nissan of Bremerton, Silver City Brewery and Costco.

The Central Kitsap Reporter/ Sound Publishing is the media sponsor of the event.

For more information check out the Party at the Pier Facebook page.