Have you heard about Tacoma’s beloved Monkeyshines tradition? 🐒✨

Every year around the Lunar New Year, a group of anonymous “monkeys” hide beautiful glass orbs and medallions throughout the city. What started as a secretive tradition has gained so much popularity that “rogues” now join in, hiding their own creative treasures for others to find.

From jewelry and pins to painted rocks, marbles, and posters, Monkeyshines is all about serendipity, spreading joy, and bringing the community together which closely aligns with our REACH mission.

As a huge Monkeyshines fan for nearly a decade, I (Cecilia) have been lucky enough to find a few of the coveted orbs and medallions (pictures below).

Each year, I join the fun by making and hiding my own rogue creations—this year, it’s jeweled keychains!🎨 I’d love for you to join the fun by creating your own rock art to hide—or keep as a personal treasure!

*Remember the Monkeyshines rules: If you find a glass orb or medallion, please take only one per year to ensure everyone gets a chance to share in the magic. For rogue treasures like painted rocks and trinkets, feel free to collect as many as you discover!*

About the Event

Come to our Creative Expressions Rock Painting Session and create something uniquely yours. Paint rocks inspired by the Lunar New Year’s theme—this year’s animal is the Snake—or let your imagination run wild with your favorite designs.

We’ll provide everything you need, including:
🎨 Liquid acrylic paints
🖌 Markers for detailing
✨ A varnish to seal your masterpiece and protect it from the environment

No experience? No problem! This event is perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike.

Event Details:
📅 When: Tuesday, January 21st, 12:00 PM
📍 Where: REACH Ministries Office, Tacoma
📱 RSVP: Email cbryan@reachministries.org or text 541-612-0616

We want to make sure we have plenty of supplies, so be sure to RSVP!

Join us for this creative and fun event to celebrate Lunar New Year, connect with others, and add your special touch to Tacoma’s magical Monkeyshines tradition.

Let’s make art, spread joy, and create unforgettable moments together! ✨