Summer Festivals and Events in Seattle and Beyond
Summer in the Northwest is packed with festivities.
Check out our event calendar for the latest upcoming events, or read on for some of the annual summer highlights in Seattle Southside.
Live Music: Ongoing Series
Des Moines Summer Concert Series
Wednesdays, July–August
Catch free live music and enjoy delicious food from local vendors every Wednesday evening from July 16 to August 20 at scenic
Music in the Park
Wednesdays, July–August
SeaTac’s Music in the Park series brings free live performances to Angle Lake and Riverton Park. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of local bands in an easygoing, outdoor setting.
Live Music at Quarterdeck
Fridays and Saturdays, Summer 2025
Soak in the waterfront views and enjoy weekly live music at Quarterdeck. With a lineup of rotating local artists, it's a laid-back way to experience Des Moines’ marina scene.
June Summer Events
Farmers Markets
Wednesdays and Saturdays
With June comes the opening of farmers markets around the region. The most scenic is arguably the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market, happening every Saturday in summer. Take in views of Puget Sound while shopping for produce and local goods, sampling food trucks, and listening to live music. See our guide to more great farmers markets.
Pride Events
Ongoing
From PrideFest in Seattle to Waterland PrideFest in Des Moines to many smaller events around the region, pride events happen all month long.
Men In Black Birthday Bash (MIBBB)
June 13-22
Every June, Seattle Southside celebrates the local incident that spawned the legend of the "Men in Black." If you're into UFOs, aliens, conspiracy theories, or quirky local lore, this is your jam. The 2025 festival includes many events spanning a whole week. Explore the ticket page for details.
July Summer Events
Fourth of July Events
July 4
The Seafair 4th of July fireworks show goes off in Seattle's Lake Union, with activities and food vendors at Gasworks Park and Lake Union Park. It's a popular event, but be warned: it can get super crowded. For a more low-key, community feel, head south to a festive parade in Burien during the daytime. In the evening, check out the beautiful Des Moines Marina and enjoy a drone show right on the Puget Sound coast. Food trucks will be available for dinner, and the drone show begins just after sundown.
Waterland Parade and Festival
July 19
The Waterland Parade brings the streets of Des Moines to life with colorful floats, marching bands, and community pride. It's a long-standing summer tradition that brings out crowds of all ages. Enjoy the hometown charm and celebratory spirit of this beloved local event. 2025's parade is on July 19, and kicks off at 5:45. See the event page for details.
Shark in the Park
July 6
Celebrate National Sixgill Shark Day in Des Moines, now recognized as the Sixgill Shark Capital of the World. Hosted by Highline College and the MaST Center, this family-friendly event features hands-on discovery, food, and fun.
August Summer Events
Jet Blast Bash
August 2-3
Held at the Museum of Flight during SeaFair weekend, Jet Blast Bash is part airshow, part festival. Expect jets, live music, vintage planes, and more at this family-friendly celebration.
Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival
August 23
Sip on local craft brews and sway to the rhythm of top-tier blues bands at Des Moines Beach Park. This festival combines award-winning music with a mission—raising money for local causes.
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