ELLSWORTH – Ellsworth’s East End Park is the go-to spot for community engagement and entertainment on Thursday evenings this summer, thanks to the Summer Fun Series organized by the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce and local businesses and civic groups. Designed to coincide with the Ellsworth Farmers Market, free weekly events foster community spirit and provide a platform for local businesses and organizations to connect with residents. The series promises a summer filled with free activities, food, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun in Ellsworth’s East End Park.

The first event of the series this past Thursday, hosted by the Ellsworth Chamber, kicked things off with a splash. The Summer Kick-Off Party was beach themed, complete with a giant slip-n-slide, beach balls, and sand toys. Families packed their own picnics and enjoyed free watermelon, while children splashed and built structures in the sand.

“We were so glad to have blue skies and sunshine for the first event of the series,” said Kim Beebe, Executive Director of the Ellsworth Chamber. “Nice weather helps set the tone for a great series, but it’s not just about the activities. These weekly events bring families and neighbors together and remind us how special our community truly is,” added Beebe.

Looking ahead, the Summer Fun Series has a line-up that promises to keep the excitement alive all season. This week’s event, taking place on Thursday, June 13, will be hosted by St. Francis School. DJ Mike Baker will be spinning tunes to keep the energy high. Fun guided creative activities will keep the kids busy. The Fiesta Mexicana and River Road Coffee food trucks will offer food and beverages for purchase.

The Ellsworth Public Library and Lion’s Club have teamed up for three Thursdays for the series, each with special musical guests. On Thursday, June 27, the Everett Smithson Band will be performing their unique brand of soul and Creole music. Their session will be followed by a harmonica workshop/lesson. Thursday, July 11, Skipping Stones will perform classic rock, blues, and country music. The indie singer songwriter guitar duo, Patchouli & Guitarra will perform on Thursday, July 25. The Lion’s Club will be providing free food at all three performances.

Additional Thursday events will be hosted by CCF Bank, Brush Strokes Art Supply and the Cub Scouts, Hancock Lodge, and more! The Ellsworth Farmers Market takes place on Cross Cut Street next to East End Park each Thursdays from 4-7 p.m., with Summer Fun Series events taking place from 5-7 p.m., with three exceptions. There will be no Farmers Market or Summer Fun Series events on June 20 (due to the Cheese Curd Festival), July 4 (due to Independence Day), or Aug. 8 (due to the Pierce County Fair). Summer Fun Series details can be found at EllsworthChamber.com/events, with regular updates on the chamber’s Facebook page at fb.com/EllsworthChamber.

The Summer Fun Series is a testament to Ellsworth’s commitment to community building. Each event is thoughtfully planned to offer entertainment, activities and the opportunities to connect and celebrate together as a community.

“In partnership with local civic groups and non-profit organizations, we hope to see the Summer Fun Series become a staple of summer life in Ellsworth, bringing joy and unity to the entire community,” says Beebe.

Submitted by Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce