Annual Events in Seattle Introduction
Seattle is a city that thrives on culture, music, and community celebrations. Throughout the year, the Emerald City hosts a variety of exciting annual events, from music festivals to food fairs and cultural parades. Whether you’re a visitor planning your trip or a local looking to explore, here are some of the best annual events in Seattle that you won’t want to miss.
January – March
Seattle Boat Show
- When: Late January
- Where: Lumen Field Event Center & Bell Harbor Marina
- Why Visit: The largest boat show on the West Coast, featuring over 400 exhibitors, seminars, and interactive displays for boating enthusiasts.
- More Info: Seattle Boat Show
Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) Opening Gala
- When: February
- Where: Venues across Seattle
- Why Visit: One of North America’s largest film festivals, showcasing indie, foreign, and documentary films from around the world.
- More Info: SIFF
April – June
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
- When: April
- Where: Mount Vernon, WA (1-hour drive from Seattle)
- Why Visit: Experience fields of colorful tulips in full bloom, along with local art, food, and family-friendly activities.
- More Info: Tulip Festival
Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)
- When: May – June
- Where: Various venues
- Why Visit: The full-length SIFF event features hundreds of films, premieres, and panels with filmmakers.
- More Info: SIFF
Northwest Folklife Festival
- When: Memorial Day Weekend
- Where: Seattle Center
- Why Visit: A free, family-friendly festival celebrating global music, dance, and cultural traditions.
- More Info: Northwest Folklife
July – September
Seafair Weekend Festival
- When: Early August
- Where: Lake Washington
- Why Visit: The highlight of Seattle’s summer, featuring hydroplane races, the Blue Angels air show, and a floating party on the lake.
- More Info: Seafair
Capitol Hill Block Party
- When: Late July
- Where: Capitol Hill
- Why Visit: A three-day music festival featuring local and national artists, with a mix of indie, rock, and electronic performances.
- More Info: CHBP
Bumbershoot Festival
- When: Labor Day Weekend
- Where: Seattle Center
- Why Visit: One of the country’s largest arts and music festivals, featuring comedy, film, visual arts, and top musical acts.
- More Info: Bumbershoot
October – December
Fremont Oktoberfest
- When: Late September – Early October
- Where: Fremont
- Why Visit: A beer lover’s paradise with over 100 craft beers, stein hoisting competitions, and Bavarian-inspired entertainment.
- More Info: Fremont Oktoberfest
Christmas Ship Festival
- When: November – December
- Where: Various locations on Puget Sound
- Why Visit: A unique Pacific Northwest holiday tradition where boats decorated with lights parade through the waters, accompanied by onboard choirs.
- More Info: Christmas Ship Festival
New Year’s at the Space Needle
- When: December 31
- Where: Seattle Center
- Why Visit: One of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the U.S., lighting up the Seattle skyline as thousands gather to celebrate.
- More Info: Space Needle NYE
Conclusion
Seattle offers year-round events that celebrate music, film, culture, and the great outdoors. Whether you’re enjoying summer festivals, holiday celebrations, or unique traditions, there’s always something happening in the Emerald City.
Planning your visit around one of these events? Stay in our Capitol Hill short-term rental, a convenient home base for exploring the city. Book your stay today and experience the best of Seattle!
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