This week on KentNow, we’re recapping a busy summer in Kent from FIFA updates and August primary ballots to the return of the Unicorn Frappuccino and the latest movies worth seeing.

In City Business, we look back on Parks and Recreation Month and all the pop-ups, activities and community moments that made July one to remember. We also talk about the DART Shuttle, a free service connecting residents to shopping, medical appointments, banks, senior housing and more across downtown Kent and the East Hill.

Then we sit down with Chief Rafael Padilla and Stacy Judd from the Kent Police Community Education Unit to talk about National Night Out, why it matters, what neighbors can expect and how events like this help build trust and connection across the community.

Plus, we’ve got your Kent event lineup, including summer concerts, kayak and paddleboard rentals at Lake Meridian, School of Rock at Morrill Meadows, a Green Kent work party at Mill Creek Canyon and Cajun and Creole Fest in downtown Kent.

And in Did Ya Know, Tracy takes on bedtime procrastination — because apparently humans are really good at delaying sleep for no good reason, especially when it’s hot and there’s no AC.

On this episode of KentNow, we’re kicking off summer in Kent with Fourth of July traditions, Splash at Lake Meridian, the start of Parks and Recreation Month, National Night Out registration, Cornucopia Days, summer concerts, and a major update on Kent’s long-awaited Downtown Quiet Zone.

We’re also joined by Katrinka Marrie from the Kent Historical Society and Museum, along with Maria Tizoc, the City of Kent’s Race and Equity Coordinator, to talk about America 250 and how Kent is helping share local stories through a Washington lens.

Plus, Mark is back with a “Did Ya Know?” all about 30 years of Pokémon.

The FIFA World Cup is almost here, and we are getting ready.

This week on KentNow, we're talking about what residents need to know before the matches begin in Seattle. Deputy Director of Public Works Kelly Peterson joins us to discuss transportation options, transit service enhancements, park-and-ride locations, and what travelers can expect when heading to and from the games.

Then, we sit down with Christina Arokiasamy of Kent Food Tours to explore how Kent's incredible cultural diversity and food scene will help welcome visitors from around the world. From hidden culinary gems to authentic cultural experiences, you'll hear why Kent deserves a spot on every FIFA visitor's itinerary.

We also cover National Night Out registration, youth cricket camps, PawFest, the Kent Downtown Partnership's Nerd Party, Cornucopia Days 5K registration, and the upcoming Kent Summer Concert Series.

Plus, Mark shares some fascinating FIFA World Cup facts—including a stolen trophy, a dog named Pickles, and why 2026 will be the biggest World Cup ever.

Whether you're heading to a match or staying local, this episode will help you make the most of a summer packed with activity in Kent.