Weekend preview: festivals galore (24. June 2010, 11:45 by Steve Dunkelberger) ~

Summer is finally well into swing, at least for a few days. And that means outdoor festival season has officially begun as well.

The big gig of the weekend is Taste of Tacoma at Point Defiance Park Friday to Sunday. Bring a fat wallet and loose-fitting pants. This annual gut fest has samples and platters of all tastes, from pizza and BBQ to Asian and European eats. And of course, a beer garden.

For a bit more of a legally questionable festival, visit Wright Park for the first of what planners hope to be an annual event. Cue the lighters for the no-cost Hempfest, an informational fair about all things bud related.

The music stage has Big Wheel Stunt Show, SweetKiss Momma, Legend of Bigfoot, Q-Dot, Vile Red Falcons, Mr. D.O.G., Voxxy Vallejo, Fun Police, Deborah Page and State of Murdoch on the bill. Booths include kid-friendly activities and informational and advocacy stands promoting hemp and its benefits.

Bud is reportedly linked to artistic feelings, so a trip to the sixth annual Urban Art Festival at People’s Park, at Ninth Avenue and MLK Way, is in order. There will be music, painting, glass blowing, kid stuff and artsy vibes at this free gig that runs from noon to 9 p.m. Sunday.

If only my ghost-white skin could handle all the sun this weekend. Oh look, Dorritos.