Community events in Bremerton are fun. This particular time of the year is always a great kickoff to the upcoming season of events that roll out the carpet for residents and visitors alike. I look forward to participating in as many of them as possible every year either with my family or even at times, by myself.

Many of the smaller events really struggle to get the word out to the community with what they have to offer. I honestly feel that more people would participate if they only knew how much fun they were missing and what a great opportunity these activities are to mingle with and support fellow residents.

So here goes on a short list of upcoming Bremerton community events that I enjoy:

The first event is the Boys & Girls Club Treasure Hunters Dinner and Auction on Saturday, March 9. The location is the Admiral Theatre and start time is 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. This is a special event for Jason and I as we donate an item to be auctioned off in support of the club every year. Our son enjoyed attending the Boys & Girls Club on Naval Avenue for several years and we like to do our small part, as a family, to ensure as many children as possible in Bremerton have the same opportunity. For more information you can go to www.admiraltheatre.org/index.html.

Coming up on March 16 is the 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Pay no attention to the weather. This parade goes on rain, shine, wind, hail, snow, you name it. This is a very basic parade that runs through downtown Bremerton and caters to smaller groups and local participants whom you would not normally see together all at one time. It starts at Sixth and Pacific and winds its way to First, Washington and finally to Fourth and Pacific. Wear your green and join in the fun. With a name like Colleen, how could I possibly pass this up? The parade flyer is located on the City of Bremerton website www.ci.bremerton.wa.us.

In April another event that is close to my heart happens in my own Union Hill Area. It is the Bremerton Food Line’s Empty Bowl Event. Save the date for April 20 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church on Veneta. Proceeds from this event assist local residents and families who rely on the assistance the Bremerton Food line provides for them. Keep checking the Bremerton Food Line website for more information www.bremertonfoodline.org.

In addition to these events, I also recommend the Bremerton Art Walks that happen the first Friday of every month. Come spend a Friday night checking out some fantastic work by our local artists and then grab a bite or a beverage at one of the surrounding downtown restaurants.

As the weather gets nicer and the days get longer, take the time to start exploring some of the places in Bremerton you have not seen or did not know existed. Help your community when and where you can with your time and contributions. It can be satisfying, worthwhile and most importantly, really fun to do.