Ballard Liquor and Convenience Store Grand Opening

The formerly state-run Ballard Liquor and Wine on 2840 NW Market St is having it's official grand opening this Saturday, Aug. 11. After Ablom Mengstu purchased the store during the state-wide auction a few months ago, the place has been undergoing some changes, adding more specialty liquors, mixers and a selection of beer. It promises to be a one-stop shop for all of your beverage needs. For an added treat this Saturday, local distillers will be at the store from 12-4 p.m.

2840 NW Market St

Ballard Art Walk

Second Saturday is here, which means the Ballard Art Walk will be arriving, too. The walk is held 6-9 p.m. throughout the Ballard Neighborhood, with businesses and galleries opening up their doors and featuring a range of local artists. The event is free and open to the public. A map of participating locations can be found here.

Kirke Park Grand Opening

The renovation of the Kirke Park property has been years in the making, starting in 2007 when Groundswell NW received notice that the realtor was marketing it. In 2008, the property was bought and neighbors discussed what to do with it. Enter summer of 2012: the park has opened and is ready for public use. The grand opening is taking place this Saturday, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., at Kirke Park on the 7000 block of 9th Ave NW.

Ballard Beer, Bags and Boards

The Ballard Elks are at it again. Last month they hosted a beer pong for charity event, and now this weekend they are hosting what promises to be the largest cornhole tournament in all of the Pacific Northwest, ever. Don't know what cornhole is? Just think bean bag toss -- except there will be beer, too, and it's all for charity. What could be more fun and worthwhile?

The event will be held in the parking lot of the Ballard Elks lodge on 6411 Seaview Ave NW. Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. and the tournament starts at 11:30 a.m. It costs $20 to enter. All proceeds benefit the Children's Hospital.