Where to Go This Weekend
in Seattle?

Top 5 Events | May 15-17

① Spirit of Africa

📅 May 16, 2026 · 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Seattle Center Armory, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109

Celebrate the richness of African heritage at Seattle Center’s Festál series, spotlighting vibrant traditions from across the continent. The event offers an immersive cultural experience designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages. 🌍🎶

While performances are included, the true highlights are the interactive workshops, such as African drumming sessions, artisan craft activities, and cultural exhibits that provide meaningful insight into diaspora traditions. 🥁✨

💵 Tickets: FREE

② U District Street Fair

📅 May 16-17, 2026
📍 University Way NE (Between NE 41st St & NE 50th St), Seattle, WA 98105

Experience one of Seattle’s longest-running neighborhood festivals, where “The Ave” becomes a pedestrian-only street celebration filled with energy and community spirit. This two-day event draws tens of thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the city’s most anticipated spring traditions. 🎉🌞

Explore 200+ arts & crafts vendors, diverse food booths, and live performances while connecting directly with local creators and small businesses. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the creative culture of the University District. 🎨🛍️

💵 Tickets: FREE

③ Rainier Dragon Boat Festival

📅 May 16, 2026
📍 Thea’s Park, 535 Dock St, Tacoma, WA 98402

Experience the excitement of the Rainier Dragon Boat Festival, where dozens of competitive teams race in long boats powered by 20 paddlers each. The waterfront setting creates a dramatic backdrop for this high-energy sporting tradition. 🚣‍♂️🌊

Enjoy a full day of races, food vendors, and cultural festivities along Tacoma’s scenic waterfront. It’s one of the region’s most visually thrilling community sporting events. 🎏🎉

💵 Tickets: FREE

④ Norwegian Day

📅 May 17, 2026
📍 Ballard Neighborhood (Parade Route along NW Market St), Seattle, WA 98107

Celebrate Norwegian Constitution Day at Ballard’s beloved 17th of May Festival, featuring a community parade with marching bands, drill teams, and traditional Norwegian costumes. 🇳🇴🎺

Festivities also include a beer hall, luncheon events, live music, and neighborhood open houses, blending heritage celebration with community pride. 🎉🍺

💵 Tickets: FREE

⑤ Blue Poppy Day

📅 May 16, 2026 · 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, 2525 S 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003

Experience the rare blue poppy meadow in full bloom during this special garden celebration featuring plant sales, artisan vendors, food trucks, and live music. 🌸🌿

Stroll through beautifully curated landscapes while discovering unique botanical varieties and seasonal spring highlights in a relaxed outdoor setting. 🌼🎶

💵 Tickets: $10 (children 12 and under free)