The History of BMSA
Bremerton Main Stream Association (BMSA) got its start in the early '80's. Its purpose was to help establish the downtown Bremerton core area as the major retail businesses were relocating to the suburbs, especially Silverdale.
BMSA started many downtown events (with the help and support of many businesses and individuals) including Rust Bust, Scalawag Waterfront Fair, Summer Solstice and others. Over the next several years many major events happened in Bremerton especially the construction of the waterfront Boardwalk.
Bremerton Main Stream Association continued to be a part of the rebirth of Bremerton. Over 100 trees were planted along with our "Adopt-A-Tree Program" and our Baskets and Banner program to help beautify our downtown streets.
Then came the largest and best promotion ever--The Bremerton Blackberry Festival. Our first event drew about 2,000 visitors and the last several years' attendance has been estimated at nearly 50,000 for the three-day event. Throughout the years, various events have been added such as the Car Show, Berry Fun Run, Bike Race, Chalk Art, Charity Golf and Fly-In. Some events return annually and others are time permitting.
BMSA sponsors several other events throughout the year. These include the Concerts on the Boardwalk. A four concert series in July with various musical groups providing quality entertainment on beautiful summer evenings.
The St Patrick's Day Parade each March and recently the Bremerton Oktoberfest has been added to the schedule.
The Christmas "Santa Arrival" promotion is always a big hit with Santa arriving in a fire truck to the downtown area.
Today these efforts are paying huge dividends with the new Bremerton Transportation Center, Kitsap Convention Center, the Hampton Hotel & Suites on the waterfront, the new Government Building between 5th and 6th Streets, the new Pacific Avenue Park and several others.
The Bremerton Main Stream Association is dedicated to promoting ideas, concepts and activities that will bring businesses and people back into the downtown area.
In addition to promoting events and activities, BMSA has been active in participating with all groups and organizations that have worked so hard over the years to get redevelopment moving in the downtown area.
For more information on these and other activities contact our office at 1-360-377-3041.
