Anchor, the Crab welcomes everyone to the Annual Ballard SeafoodFest, which happens the second weekend of July each year.
This Seafair sanctioned event is a free festival great for kids and families as well as those looking to enjoy great music and a lively beer garden. With three main stages, including a family stage, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.
I attended the festival on a Sunday afternoon this year. After listening to a few tunes at the main stage I decided to check out the arts and craft vendors and found some pretty interesting Northwest art. There is just something about a post apocalyptic Seattle Space Needle surrounded by ocean that really makes you stop and think.
By the time I sampled some fudge and participated in a bubble war at Majic Bubble Wand booth and went for a slide down the big purple slide, I decided to go check out what the festival is famous for - the seafood!
Festival goers have the option of purchasing a plate of alder-smoked salmon (smoked onsite in the ground!) or from a myriad of other vendors. I decided to try multiple dishes.
I enjoyed an order of "Scallorito," pan seared scallops on pilaf from Alaska Weathervane Seafood and some Honey Walnut Prawns and a cupcake topped with Swedish fish for dessert. Yum!
Since I went on a Sunday, the Ballard Farmers Market was also happening. I checked out all of the local produce and purchased a flat of berries to take home.
On the walk out I passed by an entertainer preparing to juggle chainsaws. Yikes! I left before I saw the outcome but from the oohs and ahhs I overheard, I assume everything went according to plan.
Be sure to visit the SeafoodFest next time and enjoy all the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of this fun event!
