Norwegian Day, May 17
Ballard truly comes to life to celebrate, of all things, Norwegian Constitution Day. The 17th of May Festival has been marked by Seattle in some form since 1889. It continues today with a luncheon, kids’ activities, music and capped by a grand parade at 6pm. “Hipp, Hipp, Hurra!”
Garage Sale Extravaganza, May 21
The Seattle neighborhoods of Phinney Ridge and Greenwood partner on an annual rite of passage – a massive garage sale and recycling event. Ready to clear out some clutter or maybe you are on the lookout for new treasures? This is the place to be, with several dozen yard/garage sales throughout. Learn more. 9am-1pm
Science Fiction & Fantasy Films, May 21-22
The annual Science Fiction + Fantasy Short Film Festival is back for its 17th year. The popular event has sold out for the last 10 years. Watch juried selections – usually no more than 15 minutes in length – at SIFF Cinema Egyptian on Capitol Hill and SIFF Uptown in what used to be known as Lower Queen Anne. Various times.
University District Street Fair, May 21-22
After a break from the pandemic, the oldest Seattle fair is back. Walk along University Way Northeast (“The Ave”) for a weekend of food, arts & crafts and music. Starting in 1970, the UDistrict Street Fair is the first great outdoor event every year for our fair city. Take public transit, if possible, to avoid traffic and parking woes. Saturday, 11am-7pm and Sunday, 11am-6pm
Northwest Folklife Festival, May 27-30
Celebrate traditional arts by attending some of the hundreds of dance and musical performances, workshops and panel discussions by contributors from around the world. Northwest Folklife Festival is a Seattle classic, with this year’s theme: Metamorphosis. In its 51st year, the event is a perfect use for the expansive Seattle Center campus. Free. Donations encouraged.
Eastside Concert Series, May 27-Sept. 17
Nothing says “summer” better than a concert under the stars. Marymoor Park and its top-rated, 5000-seat venue in the Willowmoor Farm historical district of Redmond is an outstanding experience for music and memories. Bare Naked Ladies and Leon Bridges are featured during the 18-concert summer series. Tickets go fast!
Stars on Ice, May 28
Coming off his gold medal-winning performance at the Beijing Games in February, Nathan Chen leads a star-studded lineup of figure skaters at Stars on Ice. It all takes place on Memorial Day weekend at Climate Pledge Arena. 7:30pm
Maple Valley Festival, June 10-12
Southeast King County gathers for a big weekend known as Maple Valley Days. The event features a carnival, entertainment, art fair, parade (June 11 @ 10am) and car show (June 11, 8am-3pm). Check it out!
DonutFest, June 11
This inaugural event at Magnusson Park in Sandpoint will challenge you to break from your go-to puffy pastry. Try one or many – fritter, Old Fashioned, cronut, Mochinut and more. Mmmm, doughnuts! Learn more. 10am-4pm
Events subject to change. Please check with venues to confirm times, as well as masking requirements.
In case you missed it….
To mark Earth Month, my Living the Dream blog provided readers with a range of stories on sustainability and energy savings. Have a look for yourself:
Users Guide for Powering Your Home With Solar Energy
Leaks and Loss: Auditing Your Home for Energy Savings
The Switch to Everything Electric in Your Home
Thanks for reading!
Will