Long Beach Peninsula has lots to offer

From farmers' markets to fresh oysters, the Long Beach Peninsula has more than a long beach when it comes to summertime fun. Well known for its twenty eight miles of silver sand beach, the Long Beach Peninsula always has lots to see and do and even more so during the summer.

"Summer on the Washington Coast just got better," says Katja Spitz, executive director, Long Beach Peninsula Visitors Bureau. "Not only does the Long Beach Peninsula offer 28 miles of public beach, during the warm weather months visitors can engage in events almost every week through Labor Day."

Several events occur in a series. Among them are the following:

· Ilwaco Saturday Market (May 6-September 30) taking place at the Port of Ilwaco, adjacent to the 800-slip Ilwaco Marina. Find booths with artists, artisans, bakers, and farmers lining Waterfront Way. Admission is free.

· Music in the Park (May 29-September 4) a free, ongoing series of live music in downtown Long Beach. Every Thursday and Saturday from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend find small-stage, live entertainment and more at Veterans' Field.

· Columbia Pacific Farmers' Market (June 16-September 22) every Friday from noon to five, pick up fresh local produce and flowers grown by small regional farms; find food products, art and more, while enjoying live entertainment at Veterans' Field.

· Waikiki Beach Concert Series (June 10- August 26) a free, ongoing concert series at Cape Disappointment State Park featuring new musicians from the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Concerts are offered every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. and are family friendly. Notable for the spectacular setting, concerts take place in an outdoor amphitheater overlooking Waikiki Beach. Note: A Washington State Parks Discover Pass is required as a parking permit.

"It's best to book accommodations in advance," advises Spitz. "Summer is peak visitation for our destination, and events are always well attended."

For more information on the event series listed above or to find more of Long Beach Peninsula's annual summer events including Sandsations (July 12-16), Music in the Gardens (July 15), Jazz & Oysters (August 12), WoodFest (August 12-13), Washington State International Kite Festival (August 21-27), visit http://www.visitlongbeachpeninsula.com/events/.