Travel Seattle - Local Favorite Seattle Festivals

Seattle Area Festivals - If you are the kind of person who enjoys a wide array of festivals, then Seattle is the place for you. Whether you want to celebrate the summer solstice or Nordic Yulefest, there is sure to be a Seattle Festival for you.

Summer Festivals:

June

Solstice Parade - The Solstice Parade is the official kick-off of the Fremont Fair. Over the past 20 years, the Fremont Arts Council has been a non-profit organization celebrating art and creative expression. The Solstice parade has become popular not only with the locals in Fremont, but with hundreds of people from Seattle and beyond. The parade celebrates not only the beginning of summer, but a love of art and community. Location: Fremont

Lake Union Wooden Boat Festival - The Wooden Boat Festival is an annual event celebrating one of the most favorite pastimes of Seattlites - Boating. The festival includes a regatta and people's choice awards. Location: Lake Union

July

Summer Nights - Summer Nights at South Lake Union Park is the relocated venue of Summer Nights at the Pier. The park itself is 12 acres of waterfront with amazing sunsets and views of downtown Seattle. These outdoor concerts are a great way to celebrate summer. Location: South Lake Union Park

Seafair - Seafair has been celebrated in Seattle for over 50 years and has become part of the fabric of Seattle life. Events begin in July and continue through August, including a milk carton derby, marathon, triathlon, pirates landing, fleet arrival, hydroplane racing, and air show. Most of the events revolve around planes and boats - two Seattle staples - hence the name, Seafair. Location: Lake Washington and throughout Seattle

August

Evergreen State Fair - While not located in Seattle, the Evergreen fair is close enough for a visit. There is all kind of entertainment available at this fair - dancers, jugglers, animal shows, home ec contests, a rodeo, carnival and more! There is plenty to do for everyone, whether you enter yourself in a contest, ride a roller coaster, or watch the dancers do their thing. Location: Monroe

Fall Festivals:

September

Bumbershoot - Bumbershoot is the festival to end all Seattle Festivals. For over 30 years, Bumbershoot has been The labor Day weekend host to cutting edge bands and artists. The Seattle Center becomes a meeting place for artists, locals, and visitors. This four day festival offers amazing music, art, and friends. Visit and you won't be disappointed. Location: Seattle Center

Salmon Homecoming Celebration - Beginning with a Native American canoe celebration, the Salmon Homecoming is an ancient festival which has been slightly modified for modern times. Historically, the local Native Americans would celebrate the return of the salmon to their home and celebrate another plentiful year. Take some time to enjoy watching the Native American basket weaving, carving, canoeing, and a 1000 pound salmon bake. Location: Piers 62/63

November

Green Lake Frostbite Regatta - Green Lake is a popular destination year-round. Surrounded by parks and walking paths, the lake is a great place for some outdoor exercise and fun. The Frostbite Regatta is perhaps the last boating event of the year at the Lake. Grab a scarf, some hot coffee, and enjoy watching the races! Location: Green Lake

Yulefest - Many people don't realize that there is a significant Nordic population in Seattle, particularly in Ballard. This fact becomes evident annually at Yulefest. Every year, Yulefest is held at Nordic Heritage Museum, celebrating Scandinavian Holiday Celebrations including food, crafts, music, and tradition. Location: Ballard

Winter Festivals:

December

Christmas Ship Festival - For over 50 years, carolers on boats have been singing to Seattlites warming themselves around huge bonfires. The decorated boats parade up and down the Puget Sound, creating one of the largest holiday flotillas. Warm yourself around the fire, and enjoy the carols. Location: Puget Sound

February

Chinese New Year - Seattle's International District is one of the most vibrant areas of Seattle, offering all kinds of culture and entertainment. Traditionally, this celebration has been one of the most popular events in Chinatowns across the country - Seattle is certainly no exception with its vibrant parade. Location: International District

Spring Festivals:

March

St. Patrick's Day Parade - The St. Patrick's Day Parade on Bainbridge Island is one of the many popular annual events. Take the ferry over to the island and celebrate your Irish heritage - even if you're not Irish! Location: Bainbridge Island

April

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival - Believe it or not , Washington is a larger producer of tulips than the Netherlands. This is celebrated every year at the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Not far from Seattle, the beauty of Skagit's tulip fields will amaze you. The festival runs the month of April, but the tulip blooms depend on seasonal changes. Check the weather before you go! Location: Skagit, Washington

May

Seattle International Film Festival - This film festival is actually the largest film festival in the United States. Running for three weeks, this film festival offers options for everyone. Buy a pass and see as many as possible, or simply try out a few of the films. Location: Throughout Seattle

Syttende Mai - This annual festival celebrates Norwegian Independence Day. Imagine July 4th with a Scandinavian flair. Location: Ballard

***** Michelle is a travel buff who has recently moved away from Hawaii, but is anxiously awaiting the day when she can return. In the meantime, she occupies her time by helping others compare and select vacation options.

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