Living in these parts, we simply cannot ignore our physical surroundings. Summer's high pressure anticyclone system in the Pacific brings a predictably dry season, Mount Rainier's brooding-beauty, and the waterways with a deep basin connected by shallower sills dotted with islands make all of us adventurers of sorts. Our physical surroundings permeate our existence. For many in the area, the outdoors call us to come see what lies beyond the civilized lives we lead. The outdoors is our neighborhood playground for growth, introspection and escape. Since the time of George Vancouver and Peter Puget, the South Puget Sound has been and will always be an adventurer's region. For that reason, the Banff Mountain Film Festival's annual visit draws huge crowds to see a who's who of the mountain adventure world and learn the story behind the adventurers.

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR, 6:45 p.m., Rialto Theater, 310 S. Ninth St., Tacoma, $14-$18, $25-$33 for both nights, 253.591.5894