Summer is the perfect time of year to enjoy beautiful weather, try new things, get some exercise, and meet new people. Kirkland has a huge selection of activities and opportunities for summer fun. I listed a few options below, but you can find more on the Kirkland city website at http://www.kirklandwa.gov/depart/parks/Recreation_Programs/currentbrochure.htm.

Beaches and parks

Kirkland has lots to offer in the beach and park departments. Marina Beach Park, Waverly Beach Park, and Houghton Beach Park are all local, family-friendly destinations perfect for spending time in the lake and for fun in the sun. Both Waverly Beach Park and Houghton Beach Park have playgrounds I can personally vouch for—as a kid, I spent many summer days mastering monkey bars at both. Beach-goers

can also find kayak rental at Houghton Beach Park, as well as a Kidd Valley right across the street when it’s time for a lunch break. Juanita Beach Park, another nearby beach, has a playground, tennis courts, a volleyball net, and is home to a weekly farmers market.

Farmers markets

Kirkland has two great farmers markets. The Kirkland Wednesday Market, in Marina Park, has been going on for years and Kirkland citizens look forward to it every summer. The market is open through the summer months and into early fall. It takes place from 2-7 p.m. every Wednesday. The Juanita Friday Market, another local farmers market, is in Juanita Beach Park. The market is open from 3-7 p.m., and will occur every Friday until Sept. 30. You’ll find lots of locally-grown fruits and vegetables, handcrafted items, kettle corn and other tasty treats, beautiful bouquets of flowers, crafts, and plenty of other delights at both markets.

Camps

Kirkland has a wide variety of camps to keep you active, meeting new people, and trying new things in the summer. Kids can attend local arts and crafts camps, science camps, theatre camps, Lego construction camps, princess- and mermaid-in- training camps. If you’re a sports enthusiast there are camps of every type: soccer, gymnastics and dance, basketball, volleyball, soccer, golf, and even ice skating. You can learn more at http://www.kirklandwa.gov/depart/parks/Recreation_and_Services/Recreation_Programs/currentbrochure.htm. You can also check local athletic clubs such as Columbia Athletic Club, or a Kirkland Community Center (North Kirkland Community Center and Peter Kirk Community Center) for more information.

Kirkland Teen Union Building (KTUB)

Kirkland Teen Union Building, also known as KTUB, has many activities that older kids can participate in over the summer. They offer a wide variety of summer camps and classes for teens, many of which are free. For example, if you are a singer or musician, you could work with professional audio engineers to record your songs. If you are into crafty, DIY activities, the Everything Art Camp offers photography, mixed media, culinary art, and more. Teens can make new friends, learn new things, and discover new talents in this accepting and supportive environment. KTUB provides lots of resources for adolescents to obtain important skills. Whether you’re looking for an opportunity to sing on a stage or learn how to become a filmmaker, KTUB has it all.

Pools

There are several options to consider when planning a fun-filled day at the pool. Peter Kirk pool is a local public pool where kids and families can go for a swim. Also nearby is the Juanita Aquatics Center, which has a public pool (equipped with a hot tub) available to people of all ages. The Aquatics Center has multiple lanes for lap swimmers as well as time for people to hang out in an open pool.

Kirkland has so much to offer for people of all ages in the summertime, and it’s the perfect opportunity to have new and special experiences, learn new things, and meet other Kirkland citizens. Have an amazing summer, Eastsiders.

Allison Hoff is a 14 year old Kirkland resident.