Jun 14, 2018

Grilled Seafood in Seattle, WA | Burien ToyotaSeattle, Washington, is an active hub of culture and talent that draws people in from all over the world. Whether you live in Seattle, or you are planning to visit, here are three upcoming festivals that you won’t want to miss.

Seattle International Dance Festival

The Seattle International Dance Festival began in 2006 when creator Cyrus Khambatta realized a need to connect audiences with dance through a festival-type environment. Whatever your cultural background or your personal preferences, you are sure to find something that appeals to you throughout the 17-day festival. The festival has featured a variety of artists from 25 countries since it began.

You can choose to attend just one or two events, or purchase a festival pass and see it all.  Check out Art on the Fly, a free, all-ages celebration of art, dance, and food, all located outdoors in the middle of Seattle. You may even learn a thing or two at the free dance classes. From there you can attend the International Series that occurs over the next few days, or maybe the James Ray Residency Project. The festival runs from June 7 through June 23, but if you miss it this time around, there is a Winter Mini Fest on November 29.

Seattle International Beerfest

You don’t have to travel to Germany to experience world-class beer. On July 6-8, come to the Fisher Pavilion & Lawn at Seattle Center, located between the Space Needle and International Fountain, to experience over 200 world-class beers at the Seattle International Beerfest. You’ll be able to sample everything from classic styles to exotic hybrids while listening to live music. 

They do have some rules you’ll want to abide by. No sharing is allowed, so make sure to purchase a wristband so you can stay and enjoy the event. Outside drinks are not permitted, but you can bring your own food, although there will be plenty of food vendors available at the event.

As you can imagine, this isn’t a child-friendly event, but it is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your dog along. This aligns with the Beerfest’s contributions to pet-friendly charities, such as the Community Cat Coalition. Since 2002, Pet Cross and the Seattle International Beerfest have contributed donations to local animal welfare groups, which means that when you attend this event and drink beer, you are actually making a difference in your community.

Ballard Seafood Fest

Looking for a free festival that celebrates all things seafood? Ballard Seafood Fest began in 1971 when Ballard’s industrial and fishing community joined with the Ballard Elks to raise money for their Chamber of Commerce. At the time, it was a two-hour barbecue. It gradually evolved over the last few decades, and now it is a three-day event that attracts over 75,000 people who come for the traditional salmon barbecue, free music and family entertainment, and a skateboarding event.  Come for this year’s event July 13-15 for seafood, music, beer, and a whole lot of fun.

No matter your tastes, whether it be dance, beer, or seafood, you will find a festival that’s just right for you here in Seattle.

Photo by Paul David Gibson | Licensed by CC BY-NC 2.0