Summer in Full Swing
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.
Where to See Free Live Music Near Seattle
Des Moines Summer Concert Series
Wednesdays, July–August | Des Moines Beach Park
Catch free live music and enjoy delicious food from local vendors at a scenic park on the Puget Sound Shoreline, every Wednesday evening from July 15 to August 19.
Details:
SPIKE AND THE IMPALERS — Northwest cover band: Wednesday, July 15, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach ParkKITTY MAE — Country cover band: Wednesday, July 22, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach Park
NITE WAVE — ’80s new wave: Wednesday, July 29, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach Park
ABBAGRAPHS — ABBA tribute band: Wednesday, August 5, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach Park
STEVIE AND THE BLUE FLAMES — Harmonica blues: Wednesday, August 12, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach Park
POWER OF LOVE — Huey Lewis tribute band: Wednesday, August 19, 7:00–8:30 p.m., Des Moines Beach Park
Music in the Park
Wednesdays, July–August | Angle Lake Park and the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
SeaTac’s Music in the Park series brings free live performances. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of local bands in an easygoing, outdoor setting.
Details:
BOUGIE BOULEVARD: Wednesday, July 8, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Angle Lake Park
THE PAZIFIC: Wednesday, July 15, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Angle Lake Park
BOTTLEROCKIT: Wednesday, July 22, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
P.O. BOXX: Wednesday, July 29, 6:00-8:00 p.m., Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden
Live Music at Quarterdeck
Weekly, Year-round (Check the business website for specific dates)
Enjoy waterfront views and weekly live music at Quarterdeck, right near the Des Moines Marina. Featuring rotating local artists and a great selection of wine and craft beer, it's a great, family-friendly way to soak up the summer vibes.
June Summer Events
Farmers Markets
Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer | Various locations
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.
World Soccer Championship Watch Parties
There will be ongoing watch parties throughout June hosted by local cities. See our World Soccer Guide to find out where you can watch matches for the world's biggest soccer tournament!
Waterland PrideFest
June 20, 2026 | The Des Moines Theater
This inclusive, community-centered festival will feature a market, DJ, drag performances, arts & crafts, and information about local resources.
Men In Black Birthday Bash (MIBBB)
June 20, 2026 | Quarterdeck
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.
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 Burien for a daytime festive parade.
Shark in the Park
July 12
Join the community for a free, fun-filled day celebrating Des Moines as the Sixgill Shark Capital of the World. Enjoy live music, local food trucks, hands-on ocean activities, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Theater in the Park (Free!):
Head to the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden to see free live plays from the Burien Actors Theater and Union Arts Center. Pack a blanket or a chair, along with some snacks or dinner, to enjoy a free theater performance.
The Courage to Right a Woman's Wrongs by Ana Caro Mallen De Soto, adapted by Rachel Rene
July 24, 7:00 p.m.
Presented by Burien Actors Theater
Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Friday, July 31, 7:00 p.m.
Presented by Union Arts Center
August Summer Events
Jet Blast Bash
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 29
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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