Arts and Culture in Seattle — October 2025

ELECTRIFY | Out There: A West Coast Experimental Dance Festival
October 2nd – 4th & October 9th – 11th @ 12th Ave Arts

OUT THERE is not just a dance festival—it’s a full-blown collision of imagination, sweat, and boundary-breaking brilliance. Featuring West Coast artists who thrive on experimentation, this gathering is a portal into the wildest corners of contemporary movement. Here, choreography is unruly, intuitive, and electric, designed to jolt audiences into new ways of seeing and feeling.

The festival celebrates the West Coast’s legacy of fearless creative risk-taking, where artists conjure a future that’s sassier, stranger, more expansive, and more alive. Each performance ignites with bold new works, paired with DJs, drinks, and late-night revelry that keep the energy pulsing long after the final bow. OUT THERE isn’t just a show—it’s a ride on the mothership of West Coast dance, and the only rule is: expect the unexpected.

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DISCOVER | SIFF DocFest
October 16th – 23rd @ SIFF Cinema Uptown

Seattle has a thing for documentaries, and SIFF knows it—that’s why DocFest has become one of the city’s favorite annual film events. Now celebrating its fifth year, the festival turns SIFF Cinema Uptown into a haven for true stories that are as gripping as any blockbuster, with one special screening downtown to mix things up.

This year’s lineup is packed with films that will make you laugh, gasp, cry, and maybe even march out ready to change the world. There’s Space Cowboy, where skydiving stunts redefine adrenaline; Love+War, a raw look at photographers capturing history on the front lines of Ukraine; and Steal This Story, Please!, which follows Amy Goodman and Democracy Now! in their fearless pursuit of independent journalism.

DocFest isn’t just about watching films—it’s about celebrating the courage of storytellers and the communities who gather to experience them. For one week, Seattle dives headfirst into the art of documentary, proving once again that sometimes the truth really is stranger—and more powerful—than fiction.

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WHODUNIT | Till Death Do Us Part: A Murder Mystery Dinner Experience
October 23rd | 6 pm @ Hotel Sorrento

Step back into the roaring 1920s and get ready for a night of intrigue, glamour, and suspense with Till Death Do Us Part: A Murder Mystery Dinner Experience at Hotel Sorrento’s Dunn Speakeasy. Imagine a lavish mafia wedding buzzing with power, passion, and secrets—only to have everything turn deadly. Guests become part of the story, tasked with questioning suspects, gathering clues, and racing to solve the crime before they—or someone else—become the next victim.

A three-course dinner is included, giving you time to nibble, sip, and strategize as the mystery unfolds. For those who want to fully embrace the era, flapper dresses, feather boas, zoot suits, pinstripes, fedoras, or elegant wedding attire are encouraged. It’s a night where champagne flows, alliances shift, and every guest becomes a detective in a true Jazz Age whodunit.

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — September 2025

RECOLLECT | MOHAI Mercantile Series: The Sound of Seattle
September 12th | 6 - 8:30 pm @ MOHAI

Seattle has a sound all its own—but it’s more than just grunge. Join KEXP DJ Eva Walker and music writer Jake Uitti as they explore the city’s rich musical tapestry in their new book, The Sound of Seattle: 101 Songs that Shaped a City. From gritty grunge riffs to groundbreaking hip-hop tracks, they’ll dive into the artists and moments that defined the city’s sonic identity. The evening promises conversation, trivia, and tunes, with music, games, and drinks kicking off the fun before a Q&A and book signing. It’s a celebration of the sounds that make Seattle unmistakably Seattle.

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PARTY | Waterfront Park Grand Opening Celebration
September 6th | 11 am - 9 pm @ Across the Waterfront Park

Seattle’s waterfront is turning the page to a new chapter, and everyone’s invited to the party. On September 6, Friends of Waterfront Park and the City of Seattle will host the Grand Opening Celebration of the city’s brand-new 20-acre Waterfront Park—a space designed to be Seattle’s front porch, alive with music, art, food, and community.

The day kicks off with a ribbon cutting, then flows into nonstop entertainment across Pier 62, Pier 58, and the Park Promenade. Expect live music, youth dance showcases, parades, pop-up performances, hands-on family fun, and immersive art and storytelling. Local food vendors will keep the crowd well-fed, while beer and beverage gardens offer a toast to the occasion. An Accessibility Welcome Tour highlights the park’s inclusive design, ensuring the space is truly for everyone.

This isn’t just a park opening—it’s a celebration of 100+ communities coming together to shape a place where Seattle’s stories meet the sea.

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INSPIRE | Walk the Block 2025
September 27th | 1 - 7 pm @ Wa Na Wari

Every year, Seattle’s Central District transforms into a living, breathing art playground during Wa Na Wari’s Walk the Block. For one day, homes, porches, parks, and local businesses turn into stages, galleries, and performance spaces, creating a festival that’s part block party, part art showcase, and all heart. From visual art and video installations to live music, dance parties, and performances by local favorites alongside global names like Saul Williams, Curry Hackett, and Autumn Breon, the day pulses with creativity at every corner. Rooted in Wa Na Wari’s mission to preserve Black cultural space and celebrate community joy, Walk the Block is where inspiration meets neighborhood energy—and where every step down the block is a new adventure in art, music, and connection.

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — August 2025

FROLIC | Summer at SAM: Fairy Fest
August 10th | 10 am – 9 pm @ Olympic Sculpture Park

Seattle Art Museum is closing out Summer at SAM with Fairy Fest—a joyful, all-ages celebration of nature, art, and imagination. Guests can stretch into the day with Take Care Yoga, then roam the park in search of fairy homes hidden in the greenery. DJ Clover and Campbient bring ethereal beats, while Dance Church and ComedySportz add movement and laughter. Activities like trinket-making with The Cutie Foundation, earth mandalas, puppet encounters by Sarah Lovett, and fairy fashion crafting with Dan Mclean keep the magic flowing all day. Evening performances by Maiah Wynne, DJ Clover, and HANA bring it all home. Local food trucks, artist booths, and nonprofit partners round out the experience. Entry is free—wings encouraged.

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INSPIRE | Cannonball Arts Opening Party
August 15th | 6 pm – 12 am @ Cannonball Arts

A new chapter in Seattle’s creative story is about to begin—head to Cannonball Arts’ launch, the city’s largest contemporary arts center, with a blowout bash that promises to be anything but ordinary. From 6 PM to midnight, this 66,000 square foot wonderland will be alive with sound, movement, and imagination. DJs Wax Witch and Repoman will set the tone early, before La Mala Noche takes the decks for a late-night dance floor revival. Everywhere you turn, something is happening: live figure drawing, roaming performers, roller skating feats by Roll Around SeaTown, burlesque from Ruby Mimosa, and a dazzling show by Stacy Lovejoy & The Lovejoysters. Their flamboyant Cannonball Lifeguards will be on duty to keep the vibes high, and the drinks flowing. It’s a one-night-only spectacle to celebrate a bold new home for art in the heart of the city—come dressed to dazzle and ready to dive in.

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PLAY | Bumbershoot 2025
August 30th – 31st @ Seattle Center

If you’re hitting just one festival this summer, make it Bumbershoot! A full-spectrum celebration of Pacific Northwest creativity, Bumbershoot is where music, art, fashion, food, and full-blown spectacle collide. From punk to pole dancing, ballet to Bumbermania (yes, that’s a WWE-style smackdown), roller skating to performance art, this festival turns Seattle Center into a wildly immersive playground of cultural expression. Bumbershoot champions the bold, the weird, the inclusive, and the unforgettable.

This year’s music lineup spans generations and genres, with Weezer performing their iconic Blue Album in full, Janelle Monáe bringing genre-bending brilliance, and crowd favorites like Bright Eyes, Aurora, Car Seat Headrest, Sylvan Esso, and Digable Planets performing their 1994 classic Blowout Comb. But that’s just the beginning.

Wander through Bumbershoot’s unique Districts to discover something unexpected at every turn—like high-flying tricks on a custom-built halfpipe in the Recess District, iconic Seattle cultural landmarks in the Vanishing Seattle gallery, or tarot readings by local witches in the Witch Temple Dome. Shop vintage and avant-garde looks in the Fashion District, catch a set in the Comedy Dome, or stumble upon the Cat Circus, the Wig Farm, and who knows what else. Every day is a new adventure—and every corner brings the unexpected.

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — July 2025

WATCH | Three Dollar Bill Cinema’s Queer & Trans Film Festival 2025
July 10th - 12th @ Broadway Performance Hall & Erickson Theatre

This summer, Three Dollar Bill Cinema beautifully weaves together the histories of the Seattle Queer Film Festival and TRANSlations for a rich, in-person retrospective that honors decades of groundbreaking LGBTQ+ storytelling. Under the theme “uniting the legacies,” the program offers a lovingly curated mix of iconic features, beloved shorts, and a new wave of trans-made and trans-led films that reflect the depth, defiance, and joy of queer cinema. Expect unforgettable titles like Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Tangerine alongside fresh discoveries that push the form forward. There’s no streaming this time—this is a celebration meant to be shared with a crowd on the big screen, just as it should be.

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IMMERSE | Seattle Outdoor Theatre Festival
July 12th - 13th @ Volunteer Park

A beloved fixture of Seattle’s summer arts scene, the Seattle Outdoor Theater Festival returns to Volunteer Park with a lively mix of performances under the open sky. While there’s plenty of Shakespeare to go around, the festival also showcases an eclectic lineup from local companies—like an Indigenous piece by Red Eagle Soaring Native Theater, a puppet show inspired by a Mexican folktale from Thistle Theatre, and a hilariously improvised “Shakespeareance” by ComedySportz. Attendees can also dive into the creative process with interactive experiences like a stage combat demo from the Seattle Sockeye and a devising workshop led by Dacha Theatre. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and settle in for a weekend of theater in the park.

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GROOVE | Spotlight at Waterfront Park
Every Thursday through September 25th | 6:00 - 8:00pm @ Pier 62

Every Thursday evening this summer, Seattle’s waterfront transforms into a living, breathing stage: Welcome to Spotlight at Waterfront Park. Set against the shimmer of Elliott Bay, this weekly series invites you to wander into a world where music, art, and culture pulse through the heart of the city. Whether you're stretched out on the Salish Steps or dancing on Pier 62, each Spotlight showcases the depth and diversity of Seattle’s creative community.

Coming up next: a free preview of Black & Loud Fest, featuring headliner King Youngblood and a lineup of powerful performances on July 10. After that, the spotlight shifts to the next generation of local talent, with fresh sounds from young hip-hop artists in The Residency program. Come for the view, stay for the vibe—Spotlight runs every Thursday from July through September.

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — June 2025

LISTEN | Shibuya HiFi x QBFX: Pride Sessions

This Pride Month, Shibuya HiFi and QBFX (queer brown folx who love hard get to fall and be tenderly caught) are teaming up for Pride Sessions—an immersive evening of storytelling, memory, and music that pulses with queer power and personal resonance.

Throughout the evening, a rotating cast of LGBTQ+ artists and organizers from the Pacific Northwest will guide listeners through the albums that have shaped their identities, creative worlds, and communities. Each session features a deep listen of a selected album paired with heartfelt reflection—an invitation to experience the music not just as sound, but as story, history, and hope.

Expect everything from operatic rock and Afrofuturist funk to genre-blending soul and hyperpop heartbreak. Albums include:

• Queen – A Night at the Opera
  Hosted by Nikita Venus & Maisha Manson (Seattle LGBTQ+ Center)

• Janelle Monáe – The Archandroid
  Hosted by Sabrina Woon-Chen (@umisaysheal)

• Beverly Glenn-Copeland – The Ones Ahead / Keyboard Fantasies / Future Seen
  Hosted by Naomi & Bo (@goldenladynay & @bolie2015)

• The Internet – Ego Death Deluxe
  Hosted by Livt (@livt_musiq)

• Chapel Roan – The Rise and Fall of a Midwestern Princess
  Hosted by Brian Rauschenbach (@rauschenbach)

Together, Shibuya HiFi and QBFX are creating space to listen deeply—to the records that made us, the voices that shaped us, and the futures we’re dreaming into being. This isn’t just an event—it’s a shared moment of reflection, resistance, and joy.

June 14th | Various times @ Shibuya HiFi
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COMMEMMORATE | Juneteenth at NAAM: Movement for Joy

This Juneteenth, the Northwest African American Museum invites the entire community to gather for a powerful day of Black excellence, cultural celebration, and remembrance. Held at both NAAM and Judkins Park just down the street, this free outdoor festival is one of Seattle’s most vibrant tributes to Black freedom and resilience.

From the moment the festivities begin, the energy is undeniable. Expect live music, a Skate to Freedom party, soul-stirring spoken word, engaging youth activities, an art takeover, and a bustling marketplace full of local Black-owned businesses. Plus, enjoy bites from food trucks serving up crowd favorites and heritage dishes.

Juneteenth at NAAM isn’t just about celebration—it’s about education and reflection too. Throughout the day, attendees are invited to explore the museum’s exhibits, join interactive workshops, and connect with local leaders and organizations working to advance racial equity.

Bring your family, your friends, and your heart to honor the past, celebrate the present, and move toward a freer future, together.

June 19th | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm @ Northwest African American Museum
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UPLIFT | Trans Pride Seattle 2025

Trans Pride Seattle is a powerful, heartfelt love letter to trans communities everywhere, and especially vital in today’s challenging political landscape. Hosted by the Gender Justice League, this celebration invites everyone who stands with and affirms trans lives to come together for an inspiring evening in the park filled with joy, resilience, and connection.

The night features an incredible lineup of trans performers who bring their stories, talents, and spirit to the stage, creating a vibrant space where visibility and creativity shine. Alongside the performances, a bustling tabling fair hosts over 100 trans-led and affirming organizations, artists, and services, offering resources, community connections, and art that celebrate the diversity and strength of trans identities.

Trans Pride Seattle is a celebration of identity, solidarity, and love—a reminder that in the face of adversity, community and joy remain powerful acts of resistance. 

June 27th | 5:00 – 10:00 pm @ Volunteer Park Amphitheater
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Arts and Culture in Seattle — May 2025

ENCOUNTER | Seattle International Film Festival

SIFF returns for its 51st year with a stellar lineup of international and independent films from around the globe—245 films from 74 countries, to be exact—including features, documentaries, and shorts that span genres, borders, and bold new visions. As Seattle’s most recognized hybrid festival, SIFF will present screenings both in-person at venues across the city and virtually via the SIFF Channel. It all kicks off with Four Mothers, a heartwarming and chaotic comedy about a gay Irish novelist suddenly left in charge of four aging women while his friends escape to Maspalomas Pride. The festival wraps with Sorry, Baby and a closing night party at MOHAI. Whether you're theater-hopping or streaming from home, it's time to escape to the reel world.

The Cloud Room is thrilled to partner with SIFF 2025 for their 51st annual festival —Seattle’s ultimate celebration of bold, boundary-pushing cinema. Use code CLOUDROOM51 for $3 off your tickets and dive into the magic of the big screen.

May 15th - 25th @ Various Locations
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GATHER | Meet Me At The Waterfront 5k & Celebration

Seattle’s newly transformed waterfront is ready for its big reveal, and what better way to experience it than at your own pace during the inaugural Meet Me at Waterfront Park 5K? This scenic run, walk, or roll invites participants of all abilities to explore the fresh shoreline route with stunning views of the Salish Sea, the Olympic Mountains, and plenty of photo-worthy new features. After crossing the finish line, the celebration continues with a free community party packed with a live music and a DJ set by Deejay Hershe, pop-up food vendors, and fun family-friendly activities with local artists and Cheer Seattle. It’s the ultimate way to kick off summer and see the waterfront come to life.

May 31st | 8:00 am - 2:00 pm @ Pier 62
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INSPIRE | Kurtwood Farms Summer Classes

This summer, our friends at Kurtwood Farms invite you to immerse yourself in a series of intimate cooking classes and thought-provoking BarnTalks, all set against the serene backdrop of their Vashon Island farm. Each weekend, the Cookhouse becomes a hub of culinary exploration, hosting small groups around a butcher block island to learn from esteemed chefs. Spots are filling up fast, but some coveted classes are still available, including Chef Zoi Antonitsas's Greek home cuisine, sausage making with Russ Flint of Rain Shadow Meats, sourdough starting with Ben’s Bread, and Mexican recipes with Pancita’s Janet Becerra. Beyond the kitchen, the farm's BarnTalks provide a platform for engaging discussions with notable speakers, complemented by farm-fresh meals and the open-air charm of the timber-frame barn. Whether you're looking to refine your cooking skills or engage in meaningful conversations, Kurtwood Farms offers a welcoming retreat to connect, learn, and savor the season.

May 24th - August 31st @ Kurtwood Farms
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Arts and Culture in Seattle — April 2025

COMMEMORATE | Opening Reception: Central District Legacy

Central District Legacy brings together the work of artists Myron Curry, Mohamed Gabriel, Akoiya Harris, Rodney H. King, Troy Miles, and Zorn B. Taylor in a powerful tribute to the Black communities that shaped Seattle’s Central District. This exhibition is not just a showcase—it’s an invitation to remember, reflect, and reimagine. Through paintings, photography, and other media, the artists honor the CD as a living archive of memory, culture, and identity. Their work transforms homes, churches, schools, and storefronts into vessels of wisdom and resistance, telling stories rooted in place and spirit. Central District Legacy asks us to consider the neighborhood not only as geography, but as a wellspring of creativity, legacy, and Black life.

April 26th | 4:00 - 6:00 pm @ Arte Noir
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TASTE | Future of Diversity Dinner: Masakan

Osteria La Spiga hosts guest chefs Masitah and Safira of Masakan for a special evening celebrating the vibrant flavors of Malay cuisine. Through a six-course menu rooted in family tradition, the mother-daughter duo shares dishes that are rich with personal history and cultural depth. Highlights include tofu salad with spicy peanut dressing, hand-folded curry puffs, chicken satay with lemongrass peanut sauce, turmeric coconut curry with smoked beef, and a tangy tamarind broth with Mahi Mahi. The night ends on a sweet note with a pandan-scented sago pudding. An intimate and flavorful experience, this one-night event invites diners to explore the heart of Malay home cooking.

April 27th | 5:30 – 9 pm @ Osteria La Spiga
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DREAM | 8th Annual Cadence Video Poetry Festival

Curated in partnership with artist Rana San and Seattle writer Chelsea Werner-Jatzke, this experimental festival delves into the evolving art of video poetry through a mix of screenings, workshops, and conversations. Held in honor of National Poetry Month, it celebrates video poetry as both a literary form and a dynamic visual practice, offering space—both in person and online—for artists and audiences to connect, reflect, and create. For a glimpse into the dreamy, thought-provoking works the festival showcases, check out highlights from last year’s program.

April 25th – May 4th @ NW Film Forum
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Arts and Culture in Seattle — March 2025

SAVOR | Taste Washington

Dive into a week-long celebration of Washington’s finest wines and bites at this massive event, proudly hailed as “the nation’s largest single-region wine and food festival.” The grand tasting brings together over 200 Washington wineries, 75 top West Coast restaurants, and a stellar lineup of both local and national chefs. Signature events range from an elegant wine night and a multi-course dinner series to a lively seafood party, Sunday brunch, casual tastings, and educational seminars. This year’s star-studded lineup features culinary talents from Bad Chancla, Paju, That Brown Girl Cooks!, Taurus Ox, Spinasse, Matia, Kamonegi, and many more. 

March 13 – 17 | Various times @ Various locations
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REFLECT | Karen Finley: COVID Vortex Anxiety Opera Kitty Kaleidoscope Disco

With a fittingly absurd title, performance artist, poet, musician, and educator Karen Finley’s COVID Vortex Anxiety Opera Kitty Kaleidoscope Disco is a striking poetic suite that encapsulates the surreal experience of life during the pandemic. Through a whirlwind of Zoom dance parties, obsessive handwashing, bizarre rituals, coping mechanisms, grief, social upheaval, and political reckoning, Finley crafts a vivid portrait of collective anxiety and resilience. Originally performed live in New York theaters, the piece earned praise from the Village Voice, drawing comparisons to Beat icons like Allen Ginsberg and Gregory Corso, and was named a New York Times Critic’s Pick. At its core, Finley’s work highlights the power of art, language, compassion, and humor as essential tools for survival—a poignant reminder of our shared humanity as we move forward into an uncertain future. 

March 24th | 7 pm @ Elliott Bay Book Company
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WITNESS | Keyes and the NoGoodDoers: Once Upon a Time in a Place Called NOWhere

Performance designer and seasoned local arts educator Keyes Wiley, alongside their ensemble, The NoGoodDoers, will debut their latest creation, Once Upon A Time in a Place Called NOWhere, at the Seattle Festival of Dance + Improvisation. Developed during their Made in Seattle residency, this "mundane surrealist game night" is set in a world where the stakes are so extreme that losing could spell the end. "This work acts as a public intervention in a reality parallel to our own," Wiley shares.

March 27th – April 5th | 7:30 pm @ 12th Avenue Arts
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Arts and Culture in Seattle — February 2025

CREATE | Black Art Takeover

Celebrating Black History Month is more important than ever. Join the NWAAM for a vibrant gathering showcasing local Black artists, makers, and creatives. Shop their pop-up market full of local creators, listen to exclusive artist panels, win special prizes at their raffle, view short films by Scope Screening, create art at their all ages studio, and enjoy bites from various food trucks. Plus, attendees can receive guided tours of two new exhibits: Where Do We Go From Here by Myron Curry and Recognition, Love, and Healing by AshaAung Helmstetter. Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind pieces or just want to soak in the culture, this market is not to be missed!

 February 22nd | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm @ Northwest African American Museum

Learn More Here

LEARN | Hidden Brain: An Evening with Shankar Vedantam

KUOW is thrilled to present Hidden Brain live in Seattle! For the past decade, Hidden Brain has explored the unseen forces shaping our decisions, relationships, and emotions, helping millions gain new perspectives on their lives. Now, host and creator Shankar Vedantam takes the stage to share seven of the most powerful insights from the show’s first ten years. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering Hidden Brain, this evening of science, storytelling, and thought-provoking conversation will leave you seeing yourself—and the world—differently. Don’t miss the chance to engage with Shankar and fellow fans in this unforgettable live experience!

February 22nd | 8:00 pm @ Moore Theatre

Learn More Here

CONNECT | SIFF ‘n’ Stitch

Attention all crafty movie lovers! SIFF and Stitch Cafe invite you to join their ongoing series of crafting at the movies. With the lights on, you can socialize and craft while enjoying classic films. Bring along your small knitting, crocheting, stitching, weaving, or doodling projects—just leave behind anything that requires paint, glitter, glue, sequins, feathers, beads, or tools that need power.

The next edition of SIFF ‘n’ Stitch features John Water’s Hairspray—it’s the perfect blend of creativity and cinema!

 March 16th | 12:00 pm @ SIFF Uptown

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — January 2025

CELEBRATE | 2025 Lunar New Year Fair

Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Wing Luke Museum’s lively Lunar New Year Fair! Kick things off with energetic lion dance performances by the Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon and Lion Dance Association, alongside special remarks from local speakers right outside the museum’s doors. Once inside, enjoy a variety of timed activities including calligraphy workshops, a zodiac-themed scavenger hunt, story time, community booths, and hands-on arts and crafts. Be sure to check out the KidPLACE Gallery’s newest exhibit, New Year’s All Year Round: Food, Family, and Fun, to explore the rich traditions and celebrations that make Lunar New Year special.

January 18th | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm @ Wing Luke Museum

Learn More Here

HONOR | King Day 2025: Forward Together

The Northwest African American Museum invites the community to its annual MLK Day celebration, featuring powerful speeches from local leaders, an inspiring lineup of motivational speakers, and a vibrant community organization expo. Families can enjoy hands-on arts and crafts activities, while visitors explore offerings from local vendors. This year’s program centers on a pivotal question posed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “Where do we go from here?” Plus, attendees will get an exclusive first look at two upcoming exhibitions that will soon be revealed.

January 20th | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm @ Northwest African American Museum

Learn More Here

GO | Psychedelic Salon with April Pride

SetSet's Psychedelic Salon started at the Cloud Room in May 2023 and in February this homegrown event will begin a monthly residency at Town Hall Seattle  - the first Monday of each month.  

On February 3rd its inaugural session in this new venue "Psychedelics & Creativity" are up for discussion. The evenings featured guests are Seattle-based photographer Rachel Demy (Death Cab for Cutie book here) and Tim Keck, the journalist behind The Stranger and The Onion. 

February 3rd | 7:30pm @ Town Hall Seattle

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — December 2024

SEE | Next Fest NW: Total Chaos

Shining a light on rising choreographers in Seattle, Velocity’s Next Fest NW returns to push the boundaries of contemporary movement art. This year’s experimental festival embraces the theme of "TOTAL CHAOS," inviting bold creators to dive into the realm of cacophony with a lineup of daring new works. If you thrive on creative messiness, you’ll be especially thrilled to see Hannah Krafcik and Emily Jones featured—their innovative performance at the 2021 Time-Based Arts Festival was unforgettable!

 December 12th – 14th | Various times @ 12th Ave Arts

Get Tickets Here

SHOP | Black Artists Market

Celebrate the season at a holiday craft market showcasing a vibrant collection of treasures from Black artists, artisans, and Black-owned small businesses. Curated in partnership with Intentionalist, ARTE NOIR, and Wa Na Wari, this market features handmade gifts, unique decorations, and delicious treats.

Turn your visit into a festive outing! The Seattle Center campus is brimming with holiday activities, including The Nutcracker at Pacific Northwest Ballet, Blithe Spirit and The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Sweater at Seattle Rep, The Snow Queen at Seattle Children’s Theatre, and the lively Seattle Christmas Market.

December 14th - 15th | 12:00 - 7:00 pm @ The Opera Center

Learn More Here

CELEBRATE | Wildrose 40th Anniversary Party

Forty years ago in December 1984, the Wildrose opened its doors, and it remains a cherished cornerstone of the community today. Through triumphs and trials, this iconic lesbian bar has endured as a welcoming home for generations of patrons, staff, and supporters. It’s the people who have danced, laughed, shared stories, and rallied to preserve this space that have kept the Wildrose alive. In an era when so many queer spaces have disappeared, the gratitude for its lasting presence runs deep.

 This month, the Wildrose is celebrating its incredible journey by honoring each decade leading up to a grand celebration on December 30th. This week is all about the 90’s! Follow along or stop by to join the festivities and be part of this historic milestone.

December 30th @ Wildrose

Stay Tuned Here

Arts and Culture in Seattle — November 2024

CONNECT | Frye Nouveau After Hours

Frye Nouveau invites Seattle’s adventurous art lovers, emerging professionals, and creatives ages 21+ to connect with like-minded spirits after hours. This event celebrates the bold, contemporary voices that shape Seattle’s dynamic art scene. Whether you’re coming with friends, bringing a date, or hoping to make new connections, Frye Nouveau offers a lively, artistic space to explore and mingle. The evening’s special guests include Museum Store alcove artist, Nikita Ares, and our favorite Seattle-born DJ, Wax Witch. Attendees can also register for a hands-on marbling workshop to create a one-of-a-kind silk handkerchief.

December 5th | 6:00 – 9:00 pm @ Frye Art Museum

Free Registration Here

SUPPORT | BumberWorks Presents: Y2K Mix

Support the 2024 cohort of the Bumbershoot Workforce Development Program by attending BumberWorks: Y2K Mix featuring DJ Mandy and Dirt Flower with Isaiah Banks! This pre-show reception and concert has been entirely created and produced by the 2024 Bumbershoot Workforce Development cohort and all proceeds go to supporting the program.

Guests will experience a night of music, dance, and Y2K nostalgia with a chance to win Bumbershoot 2025 tickets and other great silent auction items! Snag a VIP Supporter ticket to receive a private pre-show experience at Hotel Crocodile with hosted cocktails and heavy appetizers. Come learn more and socialize with people who share a passion for music, the arts, and youth empowerment, and see for yourself what their cohort is capable of.

December 5th
Pre-Show Reception | 5:30 pm @ Hotel Crocodile
Concert & Silent Auction | 7:00 pm @ Madame Lou's

More Info / Tickets Here

WITNESS | Juni One Set: Degenerate Art Ensemble with Senga Nengudi and yuniya edi kwon

Boy mother / faceless bloom is an interdisciplinary work by Degenerate Art Ensemble, visual artist Senga Nengudi, and musician/performer yuniya edi kwon. Blending mythology and personal narrative while rooted in queer, anti-colonial, and care-based practices, it combines dance, music, poetry, ritual, and sculpture to tell a story of transformation and new ancestral lines. The artists describe their work as “intensely collaborative, rooted in deep respect and love… through ritual and embodiment, we find paths to healing and growth, inviting others to join. We are telling a story we hope will never end.”

December 12th – 14th | 8:00 pm @ On the Boards

Get Tickets Here

Arts and Culture in Seattle — October 2024

WELCOME | Celine Waldmann to Chophouse Row

Celine Waldmann has is passionate about slow fashion, building a collection using only natural fibers and vintage textiles that is produced as ethically as possible.  After popping up with her wares at 210Seattle’s night market, Renegade Craft and Rock Paper Scissors, she has launched her own eponymous retail shop on the Chophouse Row alley between Butter Home and Sweet Alchemy.  Each piece (sweaters, cardigans, etc) is custom designed by Celine and knit on demand by her partners in Brooklyn; each item reflects her ethos and attitude of “clothing for people who like to read”.  Stop by the shop, find your inner bookworm, and meet her adorable pup, Jimmy.

 Shop Hours: Tues – Sun | 11 am – 6:00 pm @ Chophouse Row

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GO | REVIVAL: Halloween Pop Up Market

Get ready for a ghoulishly good time at the REVIVAL Market: the thrilling Halloween vendor market that promises tricks, treats, and plenty of shopping! This spooktacular event is a must-visit for ghostly friends and families looking for an evening filled with eerie excitement and unique treasures. Explore spooky vendor stalls with a curated selection of unique goods and services from BIPOC and AAPI-owned businesses, including artisanal crafts, fashion, beauty products, home décor, and much more. Enjoy spooky sweets, savory bites, and seasonal drinks from local food artisans and vendors. Join in on interactive activities like an appearance by the Double Dutch Divas, comedy magic with the legendary Ruben Barron, children’s games with Seattle Central College, and spooky sounds from DJ Bri. There’s plenty of fun to be had for all ages, so bring your family, friends, and All Hollows’ Eve spirit to the REVIVAL Market for a wickedly delightful Halloween experience. Stop in for a spell to celebrate, support local vendors, and create spine-tingling memories!

October 31st | 4:00 – 8:00 pm @ Capitol Hill Station Plaza

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CELEBRATE | Northwest Food and Fiber

Discover the best of local agriculture and craftsmanship at Northwest Food and Fiber! This exciting event brings together a night of creativity, featuring a sustainable fashion show, artisan shopping, and delectable bites curated by Chef Sabrina Tinsley of Chophouse Row’s Osteria La Spiga. Tinsley will be bringing in a stellar lineup of locally sourced dishes from Siembra, Umami Kushi, ChuMinh Tofu, The Pickled Chef, Masakan, Bakescapade, and Theary Cambodian Food.

Indulge in delicious food and drinks while marveling at the innovation of our region's top designers, all dedicated to sustainability. Witness a creative showcase of works from MEKA, Prairie Underground, New Affection, EILEEN FISHER Renew, Refugee Artisan Initiative, and Upcycled by Armoire. Join in celebrating and supporting the vibrant community of local textile and food artisans that make our region special.

 October 12th | 6:00 - 9:00 pm @ Prairie Underground

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — September 2024

WITNESS | Local Sightings Film Festival 2024

Back in 2015, Stranger senior staff writer Charles Mudede posed provocative questions about the city’s rapid transformation and its impact on its identity— "what is this city becoming? What have we lost in the rush and thrust of all these new developments? To whom does this growing city belong?" This year, as Local Sightings Film Festival celebrates its 27th anniversary, it continues to explore these themes through a dynamic mix of features, shorts, and animations created in the region. The festival remains a cornerstone of Seattle’s indie film scene, offering a vibrant platform for local filmmakers, emotional storytellers, and documentarians. With its unique focus on the Pacific Northwest’s creative spirit, Local Sightings transforms the city into a hub for cinematic discovery and conversation.

September 20th – 29th | Various times @ Northwest Film Forum

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MEET | Author Talk: Renee Erickson, Sunlight and Breadcrumbs

You likely already know James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Renee Erickson through her celebrated Seattle eateries like The Walrus and the Carpenter, The Whale Wins, and Bateau. Now, following her popular cookbooks A Boat, a Whale & a Walrus: Menus and Stories and Getaway: Food & Drink to Transport You, Erickson introduces her latest work, Sunlight and Breadcrumbs: Making Food with Creativity and Curiosity. Erickson, once an art student, shares how she rekindled her creative passions through painting, photography, ceramics, and, of course, cooking. Join her for a conversation with bestselling author J. Kenji López-Alt, followed by a Q&A and book signing.

September 25th | 7:00 – 8:30 pm @ Fremont Abbey Arts Center

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GO | Walk the Block

This year, Wa Na Wari’s annual Central District festival has expanded into a free, two-day event! Themed "Who We Are...Where We Are...How We Are," this fundraiser supports Wa Na Wari’s CACE 21 program and its anti-displacement efforts. Friday kicks off with the Walk the Block Institute, featuring creative workshops and a keynote from Miami-based architect and educator Germane Barnes. On Saturday, the much-loved Walk the Block Art Festival returns, celebrating Black art with an afternoon stroll through the Central District, where you’ll discover fresh installations and performances in local businesses, parks, porches, and shared spaces. Expect an exciting mix of visual art, sculptures, video installations, live music, dance parties, and community storytelling. VIP ticket holders will enjoy special perks, including food from chef Donna Moodie, an aura photo, and a headlining performance by soul singer Aliah Sheffield.

 September 27th – 28th | Various times @ Wa Na Wari

Register for FREE or purchase special VIP tickets

Arts and Culture in Seattle — August 2024

WITNESS | Velocity Presents: Dance Innovator Series

Dance Innovators is a festival-style performance series showcasing the cutting-edge work of esteemed faculty from the Seattle Festival of Dance + Improvisation 2024. Each piece will be presented in a low-tech, low-stakes format, aiming to share performative research with SFD+I participants and Seattle's contemporary performance community. This year, enjoy performances from innovators like Physical Education (keyon gaskin, Lu Yim, Allie Hankins, and Takahiro Yamamoto), followed by Degenerate Art Ensemble's Crow Nishimura and Shannon Stewart, and Makisig Akin and Anya Cloud.

 August 8th – 10th | 8:00 pm @ 12th Ave Arts

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SHOP | CUNIFORM Presents: A Midsummer Night’s Dries

Our friends at CUNIFORM are bringing you an epic, three-day shopping event hosted on the penthouse floor and rooftop of the historic Hotel Sorrento. Tickets are still available for the Saturday edition of their event where attendees can shop exclusive designer vintage, home goods, new arrivals from their favorite retailers, local vendors, and more. Plus, enjoy complimentary bubbles and hors d’oeuvres while you browse.

August 16th – 18th | 12:00 – 5:00 pm @ Hotel Sorrento

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ENJOY | Where Them Girls @? BBQ Pop Up

If you haven’t experienced the fun atmosphere and amazing food at Communion yet, this special event would be the perfect time. For the first edition of Communion’s pop-up series, Where Them Girls At, Communion’s chef Kristi Brown will be collaborating on a menu with chef Michelle Wallace—a Bravo Top Chef fan-favorite, restaurant owner, James Beard recipient, and pitmaster. In addition to enjoying some incredible food, attendees can view a live art installation and showcase presented by event partners Arte Noir.

 August 25th @ Communion

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — July 2024

GO | BUMBERSHOOT

If you’re going to a festival this summer, make it Bumbershoot! A celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s unique culture, Bumbershoot is a full-spectrum arts and music experience—from punk to performance art, ballet to wrestling, pole dancing to roller skating, food to fashion, and all manner of ingenuity in between. Celebrating creators and innovators of all kinds, Bumbershoot breaks stereotypes, champions a more inclusive art community, and bets on the dreamers, makers, and performers who call the Pacific Northwest home. It is Seattle’s moss-covered Mardi Gras, daring everyone to join in the spectacle.

In addition to a killer music lineup chockful of artists that appeal to every generation, Bumbershoot has an incredibly expansive visual arts lineup and culinary arts lineup to make each day an exciting, brand new experience. Explore the festival’s various Districts, like the Century 21 District featuring large-scale sculptures and an immersive “Songs for Space” partnership with NASA or the Animation District where you can watch and weigh in on a Bigfoot Deepfake Competition. Head to the Recess District to witness a skateboard contest on a newly commissioned half pipe and Bumbermania: a WWE-style smackdown or the Fashion District to zhuzh up your closet with something vintage or avant garde. There will be a Cat Circus! And a Wig Farm! And a Comedy Dome! And a Kissing Booth! And art exhibitions! And so much more!

Good news: You can experience all this revelry for just $85 for a single day pass or $150 for a full weekend pass (and kids under 10 get in free). Get your tickets today! We’ll see you at Bumbershoot 2024.

August 31st – September 1st | Various times @ Seattle Center

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EXPERIENCE | SEATTLE ART FAIR

Returning to Lumen Field for its eighth year, the Seattle Art Fair offers residents the chance to experience cutting-edge contemporary artwork from around the globe without leaving the city. The event also features significant involvement from local institutions and artists, creating a weekend filled with exceptional art-viewing opportunities. This year's fair promises to be just as dynamic as last year’s, delivering four days of artsy excitement reminiscent of its pre-pandemic days. Highlights include the second iteration of the New Artists / New Collectors initiative, a fresh collaboration with the Corning Museum of Glass, and stunning installations by Ralph Ziman, Ruy Campos, and Michael Rakowitz. Prominent regional galleries such as Traver Gallery, Greg Kucera Gallery, AMcE Creative Arts, Foster/White Gallery, studio e, PDX CONTEMPORARY ART, and Russo Lee Gallery will participate, along with international exhibitors like Tokyo's A Lighthouse called Kanata and Paris's Sobering Galerie, among many other national and global art galleries.

July 25th – 28th | Various times @ Lumen Field Event Center

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JOIN | SUMMIT TO SOUND 2024

Are you a bike enthusiast? Join our friends at Peace Peloton for a fun and scenic bike ride form the Snoqualmie Summit to the majestic views of Puget Sound! Touted as “the dopest party on two wheels”, Summit to Sound takes care of all the logistics from shuttle service to various groups based on comfortability with various speeds. Registered cyclists can also expect fueling stations along the route and end-of-the-ride meals and drinks.

August 10th | 6:00 am – 10:00 pm @ Hyak Sno-Park

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — June 2024

SUPPORT | REVIVAL JUNETEENTH POP UP MARKET

The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle and Arte Noir are hosting REVIVAL, a Juneteenth pop-up market with music from KEXP’s DJ Riz, food vendors, community organizations, and tons of goods from Black businesses. Check out an abundance of vendors like JAMIL, a vintage clothing vendor "for the renaissance woman"; R. Burnett, whose gorgeous (and affordable) craft-made wooden watches have been featured in British GQ and the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art; and Black Origin Plants, who can help bring some new greenery into your home.

June 16th | 12:00 - 5:00 pm @ Midtown Square

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CELEBRATE: INDIGIQUEER FESTIVAL

Celebrate Pride weekend with our Two-Spirit/Indigiqueer community through drag, music, dance, and more! Join Friends of Waterfront Park for an evening of Indigiqueer joy featuring drum circles, art activities, and food and art vendors surrounded by the Salish Sea. The Indigiqueer Festival demonstrates the beauty and power of Indigiqueer/Two-Spirit people, who’ve existed on this land since time immemorial. This free, all-ages event provides a chance for us to gather and celebrate our community.

June 29th | 3:00 – 8:30 pm @ Pier 62

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Photo from Indigiqueer Festival 2023 by Jo Cosme

TOAST | WILDROSE PRIDE 2024

This is your reminder that only 37 lesbian bars remain in the United States, making it truly special to celebrate pride at the Wildrose, one of the West Coast's oldest establishments for queer women. This year's three-day lineup, hosted by "Chaos Queen" Frizzancis and singer Adra Boo, features DJs SailorHank, Summersoft, Chelsea Starr, Mixxtress, Mixx America, and Ricki Leigh, along with local rockers Thunderpussy. Enjoy a karaoke competition, performances by burlesque troupe Gritty City Sirens, dark wave band Dark Chisme, and the yacht rock extravaganza Ship Show—there's something for everyone!

 June 28th – 30th | Various times @ Wildrose

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — May 2024

EXPERIENCE | Thunderpussy with the Seattle Symphony

Experience an electrifying evening of rock 'n' roll as Seattle-born band (and good friends!) Thunderpussy takes center stage for their momentous 10th anniversary celebration and the release of their second studio album. A powerful challenger of the status quo, Thunderpussy joins forces with the Seattle Symphony for a once-in-a-lifetime concert experience. The celebration will extend into the lobby throughout the evening with a merch pop-up store including a Symphony-exclusive gold vinyl version of West, a photo gallery on display and for purchase documenting ten years of Thunderpussy, an extraordinary group of dancers and beats by DJ SID3S.

May 10th | 9:00 pm @ Benaroya Hall

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FLOAT | Love For All Boat

Join Visit Seattle and GSBA on they celebrate the 50th anniversary of Seattle Pride with a night of food, drinks, dancing, a special vow renewal ceremony, and so much more aboard an Argosy Cruises ship. The boat sets sail at 6:30 p.m. from the beautiful waterfront in downtown Seattle. All ticket proceeds go to the GSBA Scholarship & Education Fund, which supports LGBTQIA+ and allied students.

May 30th | 6:30 pm @ Seattle Waterfront

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SHOP | On the Block

On the Block is back and bigger than ever this summer! Now spanning two blocks, this free creative marketplace series will feature a bunch of local vendors and small businesses selling handmade goods, vintage, street fashion, and more. While you explore the market, enjoy the sounds of various artists, performers, musicians, and DJs. With Chophouse Row now located centrally amongst the festivities, swing by to grab a drink and a bite from our various tenants!

 June 8th | 1:00 – 7:00 pm @ 11th Ave between E Pine & E Union

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — April 2024

TRANSPORT | Mystic Motel

The Mystic Motel has vacancies and is ready for you to check in! Our neighbors at Burgess/Hall have packed up their Christmas Bar pop up at The Woods and traded it in for “a transportive space that takes guests out of the clouds and rain of Seattle and into a Wes Anderson-es​que 1970s ‘theme park’ of a dusty desert roadside motel”. This themed pop-up bar promises desert-themed cocktails and warm, alluring interior design featuring faux cacti, campfires, and critters that call the sand home. If you’re aching for the summer sun or a relaxing trip to Palm Springs, stop by and stay awhile at the Mystic Motel.

Open Wednesdays – Sundays | 5 pm – Late @ The Woods

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WITNESS | dani tirrell and The Congregation: Leviticus or Love

dani tirrell, Seattle’s 2019 Mayor Arts Award recipient, is a Black, Trans Spectrum, Queer choreographer, dancer, and movement guide. dani's performance of Leviticus or Love and to Walk Amongst Humans: A Dance in Two Parts (Book I: Leviticus) is a movement meditation of sin, love, loss, and a world in which Black Queer bodies are uplifted. This multi-part dance work is set to traditional and contemporary gospel music that will be inspired and reimagined by Aretha Franklin’s Amazing Grace gospel album and documentary.

 April 20th & 21st | Various times @ The Moore Theatre

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HEAR | Gabrielle Zevin

Although in-person tickets have sold out, it’s worth it to purchase a virtual ticket to see Gabrielle Zevin’s conversation with best-selling author Ruchika Tulshyan. Spanning three decades and traversing the landscapes from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Venice Beach, California, and beyond, Zevin's Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow delves deep into the intricate tapestry of identity, disability, resilience in the face of failure, and the profound power of redemption. Praised as a literary masterpiece by Ron Charles of the Washington Post, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow has captivated readers and critics alike, earning accolades as one of the standout works of the year. Recognized by esteemed publications such as the New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, TIME, GoodReads, and Oprah Daily, Zevin's novel has garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying its place as a must-read for those seeking profound insights into the human experience.

April 25th | 7:30 @ Town Hall

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Arts and Culture in Seattle — March 2024

ATTEND | Pete Jolly ‘Seasons’ Listening Party

Embark on a musical journey with Maiden Voyage and Light in the Attic Records as they present a special evening dedicated to celebrating LITA’s latest release: Pete Jolly’s Seasons. Immerse yourself in the organic, electric, and freeform soundscape of Pete Jolly’s masterwork. Composed live, Seasons offers a melodic tapestry that resonates with true connoisseurs of music. Join them for an intimate gathering featuring a critical examination of the album, followed by a captivating Q&A session with esteemed music writer Dave Segal.

 April 6th | 7:00 – 10:00 pm @ Light in the Attic Record Shop at KEXP

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SUPPORT | Healing Verses: A National Poetry Month Celebration

We’re excited to host our friends at Pongo Poetry Project for Healing Verses: A National Poetry Month celebration. Pongo exists to support the mental well-being of systems-impacted young people coping with childhood trauma through their healing poetry writing program. Healing Verses is the perfect opportunity to learn more about Pongo’s therapeutic poetry programming, and how you can join them in supporting youth mental health through creative expression. Join us for feature readings and discussion with an amazing lineup of local poets including former WA Poet Laureate Rena Priest, Seattle Youth Poet Laureate Mateo Acuña, and Cave Canem fellow Quenton Baker.

April 10th | 5:30 – 8:00 pm @ The Cloud Room

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SEE | PCNW: Alterations

Step into the world of Alterations, an exhibition showcasing the creative endeavors of six dynamic artists hailing from the PNW. Through the lens of photography and collage, these visionaries dissect the intricate relationship between imagery and perception in our visually saturated society. Delve into a diverse array of themes as these artists confront and redefine conventional norms. From dismantling stereotypes of femininity to confronting our ecological impact and resisting political conservatism, their collages serve as powerful tools for reshaping and interrogating reality.

March 28th – June 2nd | Various times @ Photographic Center Northwest

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Image: Laura Hart Newlon, Looking at Modern Art