Why Wait for Labor Day?

Ahh Labor Day weekend… the last chance for a quick getaway, the enticing aroma of the grillin’ barbeque, the end of those scorching hot days, and the beginning of blessedly cool nights… What could be better?

How about starting the long weekend a little early! Grab the kids and join downtown Yakima in a Labor Day weekend pre-function that will leave you ready to face autumn with a smile on your face and a really hip tune or two in your heart. Mark your calendars for August 28, and plan to head to the Seasons on Naches Avenue at 5:00 p.m. to join the fun at Yakima’s second annual Summer Ender!

We’ve done just about everything to make this evening easy on you, including planning for dinner! Burhmaster Bakery, Santiago’s, and Café Melange will be set up and ready to supply you with a wide variety of delicious dinner items, and you’ll have no dishes to cleanup! And for those of us who like a little tasty beverage to go with a meal, Masset Winery, Kana Winery, and Plaza Socievole will be on hand to provide an array of fine wines. Rumor has it there may even be chocolate for dessert!

If great food without the work isn’t enough to get you and the family downtown, consider the entertainment lineup. There is truly something for everyone, beginning with three outrageous performances by Strange Fruit, a one-of-a-kind dance troupe from Australia. Performing atop 14 foot, flexible poles, Strange Fruit weaves, bobs and sways above the crowd while dancing out a story. Children and adults from around the world have been mesmerized and thrilled by their cutting edge, gravity-defying performances. Strange Fruit is guaranteed to leave you thinking about dance in a whole new light.

Summer Ender music is sure to please just about every taste, as well. First up is The Senate. Based in Seattle, this group’s sound is fresh and highly addictive. The Senate has developed a large following over the past few years and has rocked the house at Yakima’s own Sport Center. The Senate is tops in acoustic guitar, and described as “high energy, hardcore acoustic, with a sound reminiscent to DMB.”

The Senate’s rockin’ riffs will be followed by Carrie Rodriguez, a multi-talented waif of a thing who can really belt out a tune. Her mix of blue grass, country and rock creates an alternative sound that will make you want to tap your toes and get up and dance. Carrie’s original songs are written from the heart and feature outstanding fiddle, guitar and electric mandolin. Not yet 30, this musician is sure to be going places! Be sure to catch her here!

Pre-paid tickets to Summer Ender are just $20 for adults, $10 for ages 13-20, and free for children 12 and under. A special Family Package is also available for two adults and two children for $45, with additional children’s tickets available at $5.

Summer Ender is brought to you by The Capitol Theatre, Seasons, and the Committee for Downtown Yakima, and with the support of Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center.  

Tickets for SUMMER ENDER are available at The Capitol Theatre box office: 509-853-ARTS or 800-325-SEAT.