Port of Kalama

A SUMMER TO REMEMBER AT THE PORT OF KALAMA

After a year with no organized activities, the Summer of 2021 brought large crowds to the Port to enjoy concerts, watch outdoor movies and attend special events.

The summer of 2020 was perhaps the quietest the Port’s marina and parks have ever been, as the Covid-19 virus put the brakes on gatherings and most outdoor recreation. One year and a slew of new vaccines later, the Port’s marina and parks came alive again as thousands of people returned to their favorite summer hangout. Standing in stark contrast to the previous summer, there were so many entertainment options it was hard to decide what to do first! Summer officially kicked off in May with the completion of the Port’s marina renovation and new, 500 ft. guest dock feature. Improved walking surfaces and lighting rounded out the improvements, making the Port’s marina one of the more popular attractions in the area.

Not to be outdone, the Westin Amphitheater brought thousands of people to the Port as McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge resumed their weekly free summer concerts and movie nights. Local merchants also took part, setting up tents during the events and selling hand-made jewelry, unique art pieces, cupcakes and unique food and beverage items.

“We had more vendors participating in the outdoor events than we’ve ever had,” said Heidi Sullivan, the Port’s Marina and Recreation Administrator. “It was fantastic to see so many people safely gathering and enjoying all of the beautiful amenities the Port has to offer.”

Special events also added to the fun as the Port celebrated its 100th birthday and the Kalama Heritage Festival returned for its 10th year, bringing hundreds of local residents and visitors down to the waterfront to enjoy the sights and sounds of Hawaiian and Pacific Northwest tribal music, art and food.

Now that the long days are behind us, we want to thank you for making the Summer of 2021 one for the record books. Here’s to a great Fall!