The South Sound region is poised for a weekend of diverse activity, highlighting local innovation in the space sector, community traditions honoring military service, and vibrant cultural events. Key developments include a successful rocket test by Stoke Space in Moses Lake, Auburn's 60th annual Veterans Parade, and the Holo Holo Music Festival's arrival at the Tacoma Dome.
These events, alongside initiatives in the local arts scene, paint a picture of a community engaged in both future-focused industries and deep-rooted cultural celebrations, offering a wide array of activities for residents across the area.
Key Takeaways
- Stoke Space completed a successful "hop" test of its reusable rocket technology in Moses Lake, a significant step for the local aerospace industry.
- The city of Auburn will host its 60th annual Veterans Parade on November 8, one of the largest parades of its kind in the region.
- The Holo Holo Music Festival brings major reggae and island music acts, including Common Kings and J Boog, to the Tacoma Dome on November 8-9.
- Gig Harbor's Arts Commission is increasing funding for creative grants and seeking new public art installations.
Aerospace Innovation Takes Flight in Moses Lake
The region's growing aerospace sector marked a major achievement this week. Stoke Space conducted a successful “hop” test of its reusable second stage for the Nova rocket. The test, which took place in Moses Lake, demonstrated the critical technology needed for vertical takeoff and landing.
This capability is fundamental to creating fully reusable rockets, a key goal for reducing the cost of access to space. The successful demonstration confirms the viability of the company's design and engineering approach. It represents a significant milestone not just for Stoke Space but for the entire Pacific Northwest space industry, which continues to attract talent and investment.
What is a 'Hop' Test?
In rocketry, a "hop" test is a low-altitude flight designed to test key systems like engines, navigation, and landing controls. The vehicle lifts off the ground, hovers or moves to a specific point, and then lands vertically. It's a crucial step in proving that a reusable rocket can safely return to Earth for its next mission.
The development of reusable rocket technology is a competitive field dominated by a few major players. Stoke Space's progress positions the company as a serious contender and reinforces Washington's role as a hub for aerospace innovation.
Auburn Honors Veterans with Historic Parade
The city of Auburn is preparing to host one of the region's most significant community events. On November 8, the annual Veterans Parade will march through the city for its 60th consecutive year. The event stands as one of the largest of its kind in the area, drawing participants and spectators from across the state.
This year's parade is expected to be a substantial gathering, with organizers anticipating more than 150 units participating. In total, around 4,000 individuals will take part in the march, including veterans, active-duty service members, marching bands, and community organizations. The parade serves as a powerful tribute to the men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces.
60 Years of Tradition
First held over six decades ago, the Auburn Veterans Parade has grown from a small local event into a major regional tradition. Its longevity and scale make it a cornerstone of Veterans Day observances in the Pacific Northwest, consistently honoring military service through generations.
For the community, the parade is more than just a procession; it is a public display of gratitude and a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. The 60th anniversary marks a special milestone, celebrating a long history of community support for its veterans.
Music and Culture Converge at the Tacoma Dome
This weekend, the Tacoma Dome will be filled with the sounds of reggae and island music as the traveling Holo Holo Music Festival makes its Northwest stop. The two-day event, scheduled for November 8-9, brings a lineup of celebrated artists to the region.
Headlining the festival are the popular groups Common Kings and J Boog. They will be joined by a roster of other well-known performers in the genre, including:
- Josh Tatofi
- Katchafire
- Fia
- Stan Walker
The festival's arrival provides a major cultural highlight for the area, attracting music fans from throughout the Pacific Northwest. The Holo Holo Music Festival is known for its positive atmosphere and celebration of island culture, offering a unique musical experience for attendees.
Events of this scale at the Tacoma Dome also provide a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, as visitors travel to the city for the weekend.
Gig Harbor Invests in Local Arts Scene
Further demonstrating the region's commitment to culture, the Gig Harbor Arts Commission has announced new efforts to bolster the local creative community. The commission is reopening its call for artists to create the next installation for its Harbor Art public display program.
In addition to seeking new public art, the commission is also increasing its request for funding for its Creative Endeavors grants. This move signals a stronger investment in local artists and cultural projects, providing more resources to help creatives bring their ideas to life.
These initiatives are designed to enhance the cultural landscape of Gig Harbor, making art more accessible to the public and providing direct support to the artists who contribute to the city's vibrant character. By investing in its creative economy, Gig Harbor aims to foster a dynamic and inspiring environment for both residents and visitors.