Celebrate Diversity Month in Tri-Cities

April brings so much to celebrate in the Tri-Cities. From the shining sun and the warm weather to the upcoming outdoor festivals and activities. Officially recognized as “Celebrate Diversity Month” throughout the globe, April is also a time to celebrate the dynamic and unique community of the Tri-Cities.

Here are four ways to celebrate and appreciate diversity in the Tri-Cities:

The Tri-Cities is a relaxed community with cosmopolitan amenities featuring trendy cocktail bars, unique shops, delicious food, award-winning wine and more—many of which are BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) or women-owned. Here are a few suggestions to begin building your itinerary:

• Take your taste buds on an adventure at Soi 705 in Richland, owned and operated by a mother-daughter team with a knack for making crafty cocktails and amazing dishes inspired by Asian street food.
• Explore the wild and weird at Octopus’ Garden in Richland. This iconic shop is known for its cheeky humor and delightful owner who also owns the neighboring shop, Luna Fish.
• Cupcakes Bakery & Deli offers homestyle soul food as is beloved their amazing cupcakes. Local Tip: Get the Dr. Pepper cupcake—amazing!

The stories of the Tri-Cities are woven through the community in beautiful art installations. The Mid-Columbia Latino Heritage Mural reflects the contributions and values of the Latino population in the Tri-Cities. The two-piece mural is prominently displayed at the Columbia Gardens Urban Wine & Artisan Village in Kennewick, you can enjoy several local wineries and food trucks while you are there.

On nearby Clover Island, a variety of sculptures and statues pay homage to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation’s heritage and customs of gathering tule reeds and capturing fish around Ánwaš – the area in and around what is now known as Clover Island. The island is also home to a variety of other art installations that celebrate the Tri-Cities.

The East Benton County Historical Museum in Kennewick tells deeper stories of the region beginning with the indigenous people of the Mid-Columbia.

Located in a former Carnegie Library, the Franklin County Historical Museum in Pasco is listed in on the National Historic Register. Native American, pioneer, aviation, and railroad exhibits give insight into our region's unique place in history. View wartime memorabilia and the local archive of acclaimed Hollywood cinematographer, James Wong Howe.

With incredible weather year-round, outdoor recreation opportunities are plentiful. Rent a bike from local shops, like Pedego Electric Bikes or Greenies, and explore the Sacagawea Heritage Trail. Named after the Shoshone woman who was vital to the success of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the 23-mile paved loop along the scenic Columbia River connects Kennewick, Pasco and Richland. The trail features a variety of significant interpretive markers, such as the Lewis & Clark Overlook. Additionally, the trail features interpretive signs sharing the story of the area’s natural history, culture and historical events.

The trail includes a spur to the Sacajawea State Park & Interpretive Center, a state-run visitor center that shares the stories of Sacajawea (the more popular spelling of her name) and the Lewis & Clark trail and expedition as well as native American history.

The Tri-Cities is a diverse and inclusive community with a rich history that is celebrated throughout the year with a variety of annual events.

Cinco de Mayo Festival (May 7) kicks off in April with the Pasco Taco Crawl! Taco enthusiasts explore Downtown Pasco in search of the tastiest taco. The festivities culminate in a celebration of Hispanic culture with salsa dancing and salsa samples along with live music, Mexican eats, and even horse dancing.

Love is love and the Tri-Cities will be celebrating in a grand fashion with the Tri-Cities Pride Festival on June 4 at Volunteer Park in Pasco.

Juneteeth (June 18) is celebrated every year in Pasco’s Kurtzman Park to commemorate the end of slavery. The daylong festivities include a live DJ, kids’ activities, food trucks, a kickball tournament, and more, held in Pasco’s Kurtzman Park.

AACCES (African American Community, Cultural and Educational Society), a local organization raising awareness of African American accomplishments, challenges and contributions to the Tri-Cities, is hosting an evening Juneteenth celebration at Tagaris Winery on Saturday, June 18. The event will feature Josephine Howell, an award-winning jazz musician, tapas and wine.

The Marichi & More Festival (June TBA) offers traditional Mexican entertainment with the sounds of top Northwest mariachi bands, local bands, authentic Mexican food, and children’s activities.