Seattle Press on Line - Seafair Starts this Weekend!

Continues through July

Seafair Starts this Weekend!

The Milk Carton Derby. Photo courtesy of Seafair.

Jul 04, 2002 -- Summer means many things to many people: hot days, ice cream trucks, and maybe even a few vacation days. But for Seattle, the onset of summer means that Seafair is gearing up. This maritime celebration features nearly a month's worth of events. And while most Seattlites know that, on July 6, the Seafair Pirates land on Alki beach, there are a few other community events that everyone should get out and enjoy.

Milk Carton Derby (July 6)

An obvious takeoff on the soapbox derbies of yore--or at least our parent's generation--the derby is a great family event. Contestants must build sea-faring crafts, with the primary means of flotation coming from used milk containers. Who knew a one-gallon jug would float eight pounds?

There should be over 100 boats and 35,000 spectators. So be sure to get your seat at the Green Lake Aqua Theater early for this fun event.

Wallingford Seafair Kiddies Parade (July 7)

While kids always love a parade--hey, who doesn't?--this one is made especially for them. The parade will feature kids in costumes and even as performers and musicians. This year's theme is "imagination." Let it run wild.

A member of the Chinese Drill Team. Photo courtesy Seafair.

West Seattle Hi-Yu Festival (July 11 - 21)

The term "hi-yu" is Chinook for "much, plenty, abundance," and that's appropriate because there's almost too much to do for this nine-day event in West Seattle. There's the Junction Merchants Sidewalk Sale, the Kids Fishing Derby, a swing/jazz concert in the park, a bowling tournament, a kids fair and a classic car show.

And of course, as with any good festival, there are parades. The Rotary Kiddies Parade and the American Legion Grand Parade both start at 11 a.m. on July 20. A few hours later, go see the White Center Jubilee Days Parade at 4 p.m.

Chinatown-International District Summer Festival (July 13 - 14)

Besides the tons of amazing food, there are a lot of great reasons to check this event out. The performers who have been booked are diverse and promise to be a great time. These include drumming, martial arts, dancing, music and more. Kids can learn origami and the art of paper-cutting. There are also booths with crafts from around the world. And don't miss the karaoke stage.

Hispanic Seafair Organization Festival (July 14)

Part of the greatness of Seattle is in its diversity, and this festival celebrates the Hispanic culture in style. There will be music and dancing throughout the day, from mariachi to salsa to Caribbean potpourri.

Sprinkled among the music and tasty food will be raffles, contests, face painting and the breaking of a pinata. In addition, the Seafair Clowns and Pirates will be in attendance. And for the kids, there will be soccer clinics with the Seattle Sounders.

Seafair Indian Days Powwow participant. Photo courtesy of Seafair.

Seafair Indian Days Powwow (July 19 - 21)

The powwow is put on by the United Indians of All Tribes and yearly features 400 - 600 dancers in full regalia, 30 drum groups and about 10,000 spectators. In addition, there are more than 60 vendors celebrating the Native American culture with jewelry, carvings, beadwork, artwork, CDs and more.

There will be five concession stands with Indian tacos, fry bread, hamburgers, hot dogs and other fare. Starting at noon on Saturday and Sunday, there will be a traditional Salmon Bake Dinner for $8.50.

Seattle Bon Odori Festival (July 20 - 21)

This is a Japanese Dance Festival celebrating the Buddhist way of life. Through song, dance and traditional food, the young and old can practice the Japanese ritual of remembering and thanking one's ancestors. With colorful folk dancing, drum circles and martial arts demonstrations, this is a great event for people of all ages.

For more information about these or other Seafair events, go to www.seafair.com, or call 728-0123.

Reader Comments

Discuss this article in the forums!


suzanne	Jul 14, 2002	seattle	teacher
Telling us WHERE (city location) each of these events are happening would be helpful!


Dan	Jun 25, 2003	Tacoma, WA	Sale/Marketing Director
2003 Hispanic Family Fun Day On Sunday August 03, 2003 Six Flags/ Wild Waves/ Enchanted Park. Time: 11:30am to 7:00pm Ticket Price: $15.99 + Tax Kids Fun Zone: Raids, Water game, Clown, PiÒata’s, Balloons and Face painting All 15,000 guests at the event will enjoy Hispanic food, Beer garden, Live bands and DJ playing top 40 hits in Hispanic music and much more, Tickets on sale by Phone 253-212-1127