1. Paw party
More than 2,000 people and 800 dogs are expected to meet in Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St., on May 4 for a three-mile walk along the Columbia River or a 5K timed run through Fort Vancouver. After you’ve completed the Walk/Run for the Animals — which raises money for the Humane Society for Southwest Washington — you and your friends (both human and canine) can enjoy the epic party in the park with Rojo the Llama and dozens of pet-friendly vendors. Race day registration ($55 to $60) opens at 7:30 a.m., with the walk and run beginning at 9 a.m. 360-213-2614 or southwesthumane.org
2. Art and soul
Find a work of art that speaks to your heart at the Society of Washington Artists Spring Show and Sale, through May 5 in the Community Room at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 S.E. Columbia Way, Vancouver. The show — the largest in Southwest Washington — features more than 200 pieces of art by notable Northwest artists, as well as a silent auction. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. May 3 and 4 and noon to 3 p.m. May 5. A reception will be held from 4 to 6:30 p.m. May 4, concluding the silent auction and honoring the show’s award winners. 360-487-7111 or https://www.swavancouver.com
3. You had me at ‘tacos’
You might be eating tacos and drinking craft brew on a Saturday night anyway… so why not do it for a worthy cause? Tacos & Taps is a spec-taco-ular fundraising party for the Clark County Food Bank featuring gourmet taco creations and craft beer from some of the area’s finest chefs and brewers. The May 3 event has sold out, but there are still tickets ($35) left for May 4 — offering not only tacos and beer, but also live music, raffle prizes, a beer bottle ring toss and a photo booth. It all happens from 4 to 9 p.m. at the food bank, 6502 N.E. 47th Ave., Vancouver. 360-693-0939 or www.clarkcountyfoodbank.org
4. Thinkin’ about ‘Tomorrow’
The sun’ll come out at the Evergreen High School production of “Annie,” showing at 7 p.m. May 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11, at 14300 N.E. 18th St., Vancouver. The musical — featuring classic tunes like “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street” and “Tomorrow” — tells the story of Annie, who lives in an orphanage run by the mean Miss Hannigan. When billionaire Oliver Warbucks asks for an orphan to come spend the Christmas holidays at his mansion, his secretary chooses Annie. However, she’s convinced her parents are still alive. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. 360-909-1403 or www.evergreenps.org
