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LIFESTYLE
Arts + Makers
This February, we’re diving into the world of Arts & Makers—a tribute to the people, places, and programs that bring creativity to life in Bellevue. It’s not just about appreciating local craftsmanship; it’s about embracing the culture, innovation, and artistry that shape the very heart of our community.
First, we explore how the arts and culture scene in Bellevue is driving innovation and economic growth. From art installations to live performances, the vibrant cultural landscape here is creating new opportunities for diversity, creativity, and collaboration. It’s proof that when we invest in local arts, we’re also investing in the future of our city.
We also take a closer look at Larrabee Lager Co, where Bellevue native Sam Milne is crafting more than just exceptional beer—he’s cultivating a sense of camaraderie and tradition. With each batch of lager, Sam is brewing up something that brings people together and celebrates the best of local craftsmanship.
Supporting local arts and makers is about more than just commerce—it’s about nurturing creativity, connection, and a sense of belonging. This February, let’s continue to celebrate the artists and innovators who make Bellevue a place where creativity thrives and the community flourishes.
TAYLOR ROBINSON, PUBLISHER @BELLEVUELIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Taylor Robinson | taylor.robinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lorie Hoffman, Janelle Wetzstein, Erin James, Michelle Glicksman
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Alan Hsiao, Anastasia M., Erin James, Laura Ohata,
N Light, Silas Chu
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Transcending Boundaries
Discover How Curator, Julie Hsieh, Curates Transformative Art that Fosters Creativity, Culture, and Community Connection
Local Creatives Spotlight
Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day with La Rosa: A Romantic, RoseInfused Drink to Savor Featured 18 22 30
Three Local Creatives Share their Journey to Finding their Passion
Cocktail Club
A Thriving Senior Living Community
The Bellettini is a perfect blend of comfort and luxury offering an exceptional living experience in spacious well-appointed apartments complete with full kitchens, gas fireplaces, central heat/air and washers and dryers. Our many amenities include chef-prepared meals in our two restaurants, housekeeping, complementary town car transportation and valet parking, 24 hour concierge service, secure underground parking, fitness center, a vibrant social calendar and so much more.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Alair Industry Appreciation Night 1: Custom Home Builder, Alair Kirkland, celebrated fellow Industry partners with a festive happy hour social in November at Jocovine Bistro in Bellevue. 2: Architect from Métrica, Andres Villaveces, with owner of Upstaging Seattle, Flavia Bautista. 3: Owner of Alair Kirkland, Stacy Eakman, with owner of Jocovine Bistro, Adrian Lopez. 4: Alair Kirkland’s signature truck outside of Jocovine Bistro. 5: Stacy Eakman takes a moment to thank industry partners and his team at Alair Kirkland. 6: Attendees were treated to the Samba inspired musical vibes of Monamor. 7: Owner of Realogics Sotheby’s, Dean Jones
business monthly
Bellevue College Foundation Empowers Students Through Scholarships
The Bellevue College Foundation awarded nearly $1 million in scholarships for 2024-2025, benefiting 600 students like Thomas Geiger, who credit the aid with transforming their lives. The Foundation has doubled its annual scholarship funds over three years, supporting students with tuition, textbooks, and emergencies. It also assists staff and faculty through grants and childcare aid. With plans to invest $3.5–$5 million this year, the Foundation fosters community success through education at Bellevue College.
JOON Luxury Head Spa Opening Spring 2025 in Downtown Bellevue
JOON by Joe Bae is a luxury Head Spa opening in the heart of Downtown Bellevue. Focused on cleansing, purifying, and reinvigorating the scalp with premium Japanese haircare products, JOON will perform an intricate multi-step treatment service to support a healthier scalp and beautiful hair. Clients will feel relaxed and rejuvenated and leave with a more nourished and soothed scalp after every visit. Learn more and schedule your service at joonbyjoebae.com.
Photography by Original Studios, Event Photography
CULTIVATE The Collective Art Boutique Celebrating Black Artists in the PNW
Bellevue art Museum welcomed a curated selection of artwork and products from local Black artists, artisans, and businesses. This takeover, led by esteemed local art curator Franchesca Vargas, aims to promote diversity, inclusion and equity within the creative economy. With a passion for uplifting underrepresented voices, Fancy has carefully selected a range of art pieces, crafts, and products that showcase the vibrant creativity and unique perspectives of Black artists in our community.
Persimmon Design
Interior Design and Landscape Design 425-736-5488 persimmon.design@outlook.com www.persimmon.design
We craft elegant spaces inspired by the unique stories of our clients! CONTINUED >
H E A D S H O T S
Main
Street Pilates: Celebrating 5 Years of Movement and Wellness!
Main Street Pilates is celebrating 5 incredible years this month! Join us as we honor half a decade of refined movement, a thriving community, and transformative wellness. Throughout February, enjoy exclusive experiences and surprises while investing in yourself and elevating your Pilates practice. Let’s celebrate this milestone together—move, rejuvenate and embrace the joy of wellness with us at Main Street Pilates. Here’s to five wonderful years and many more to come! mainstreetpilates.com
TRANSCENDING BOUNDARIES
Discover How Curator, Julie Hsieh, Curates Transformative Art that Fosters Creativity, Culture, and Community Connection
Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue is a space where contemporary art meets healing and positivity, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond the visual. Guided by a philosophy rooted in the transformative power of art, curator Julie Hsieh creates exhibitions that inspire and uplift, fostering meaningful connections between art, culture, and the local community. Bellevue Lifestyle had the privilege of sitting down with Julie to learn more about her vision and the gallery’s impact...
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA OHATA AND ALAN HSIAO
Artwork by Deng Zuolie
“I seek pieces that evoke happiness, transforming both my gallery and your home with positivity and inspiration”
WHAT IS THE GUIDING PHILOSOPHY BEHIND YUAN RU ART CENTER’S CURATION?
As the curator of Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue, I aim to showcase contemporary artworks that inspire and soothe, creating a lasting positive impact. My background as a family doctor has shown me art’s healing power for both creators and viewers. In curating exhibitions, which has become an art form for me, I seek pieces that evoke happiness, transforming both my gallery and your home with positivity and inspiration.
HOW DO YOU DISCOVER AND SELECT ARTISTS WHOSE WORK ALIGNS WITH THE GALLERY’S VISION?
Discovering and selecting artists is an organic, multi-faceted process. I’ve found many talented
local artists in the Pacific Northwest, met at gallery events, referred by friends, or seen on social media. Sometimes, I seek specific genres for exhibitions. For our current Lunar New Year exhibit, I curated ink artworks that capture the energy of a new year.
CAN YOU SHARE THE PROCESS OF PLANNING AND EXECUTING AN EXHIBITION FROM START TO FINISH?
Each exhibition, while seamless and beautiful, requires months to a year of preparation. This includes selecting artists, organizing artworks, and preparing promotional images. As the exhibition date approaches, artists deliver their works to my gallery. This allows me to visualize the placement of each piece in my 5,000 sq ft space. The installation process then transforms Yuan Ru Art Center into its final, stunning form ready for the public.
HOW DOES THE GALLERY FOSTER MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS BETWEEN ART, CULTURE, AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY?
Art and culture are intertwined, connecting communities beyond boundaries and nationalities. Bellevue is renowned for its diversity, and Yuan Ru Art Center embraces both international and local Pacific Northwest artists, offering a vibrant platform for exhibitions and community gatherings. I also invite musicians from diverse backgrounds to perform at exhibition openings, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the many forms of art.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING OR MEMORABLE EXHIBITION YOU’VE CURATED SO FAR?
The inaugural exhibition “Transcending Boundaries” marked the opening of Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue in October 2022, showcasing five contemporary artists from Taiwan. This premier exhibition was memorable and vibrant, as friends, supporters, and community leaders gathered to celebrate the arts. Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson attended and spoke about the new BelRed Arts District, coinciding with my gallery’s launch. This milestone exhibition signified my gallery’s expansion to the international stage, following the establishment of Yuan Ru Gallery in Taipei in 2017.
HOW CAN READERS LEARN MORE?
Feel free to visit yuanru.gallery to learn more! Follow Yuan Ru Art Center – Bellevue on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on exhibitions and events. The gallery is open on weekends from 12:00-4:00 pm and weekdays by appointment, with opening receptions for new exhibitions open to the public. If you have any questions, email us at info@ yuanru.gallery. We look forward to welcoming you soon at Yuan Ru Art Center!
Top: Owner and Curator, Julie Hsieh
Bottom: Artwork by Ruby Lindner
LO C AL CREATIVESSPOTLIGHT
Creativity comes in many forms, and for these three local artists, their paths to discovering their passion were as unique as the work they create. From personal struggles to unexpected turns, each one found inspiration in the most profound ways. Join Bellevue Lifestyle as we sit down with these talented individuals who share their journey to finding their passion...
ARTICLE BY TAYLOR ROBINSON
Maja Arnold Jewelry Designer
After the loss of my baby daughter and my son’s battle with cancer, I struggled to find a piece of jewelry that represented my style while honoring my daughter’s memory. This led me to create my own necklace, designed with their initials, allowing me to keep them close to my heart. The response from friends and strangers was overwhelming, with many asking how they could get a similar piece. Encouraged by a friend, I founded Maja Arnold Jewelry Design , creating personalized, meaningful jewelry that tells a personal story through unique symbols.
I sketch all my designs by hand, offering clients two custom sketches based on the initials of their loved ones. After they choose their favorite design, I handcraft each piece in the metal of their choice. No two designs are the same—they are 100% original.
After designing over 700 monogram pieces, I introduced a powerful new collection called “BE THE LIGHT,” inspired by arrows symbolizing direction, strength, light, and protection. This collection, made in solid gold, serves as a reminder to stay focused and embrace inner peace. You can explore and purchase all my designs, including monograms and the Be the Light collection, at majaarnold.com
Photography by Anastasia M.
Antwane Tyler Singer & Songwriter
Music has always been a part of my life, but it didn’t become a true passion until after I was adopted. It was during some of my toughest moments that I turned to music as an outlet—a way to process everything I was going through. Writing and creating songs became my way of dealing with emotions, and before I knew it, it turned into something much bigger than I could have imagined.
My musical style blends modern country, folk, and a little soul, with lyrics focused on themes like resilience, heartbreak, and freedom. I love telling stories in my songs, capturing the beauty in life’s imperfections. A lot of my inspiration comes from artists like Johnny Cash, Jimi Hendrix, and The Black Keys, but I always try to keep my music close to home—reflecting my roots in Washington.
My songwriting process starts with an emotion or idea that I need to express. From there, I build lyrics that paint a picture, showing listeners rather than telling them. The most rewarding part of this journey has been connecting with fans—hearing how my songs resonate with their lives. It’s humbling and something I never take for granted.
You can find my music on Spotify, Apple Music, and any other streaming platform. Follow me on Instagram (@antwanetyler) or visit my website at antwanetyler.com
Photography
Aziza Saliev Painter
My creative journey began in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where I grew up surrounded by diverse cultures and traditions. Art became my way to express myself, connect with others, and explore creative parts of life. Moving to the U.S. at 19 was challenging as I adapted to a new country, language, and culture, but it pushed me to find myself through art. Joining Parklane Gallery in Kirkland five years ago was a turning point, allowing me to connect with art collectors, artists, and the local community.
My style blends whimsy, emotions, and storytelling. I’m known for whimsical girls with exaggerated features and hidden stories presented in colorful oil compositions. Recently, I’ve expanded into realistic portraits, landscapes, and watercolors to explore emotions through new tools and techniques.
My creative process starts with a story or mood. I use palette knives and symbolic details to create layers and textures, making my whimsical paintings best experienced in person. Live painting sessions, often at Blu Sardinia or Bellden Cafe, allow me to connect with the community and share the transformation from blank canvas to art.
You can find my work at Parklane Gallery, River Trail Roasters, and on Instagram @azizas.art.
Photography by Silas Chu
Bellevue Native, Sam Milne, Blends Old World Brewing Techniques and Community
Spirit to Craft Exceptional Lagers at Larrabee Lager Co.
Brewing Tradition,
Building Community
Sam Milne’s journey into the world of brewing is a tale of passion, perseverance, and a deep respect for tradition. A brewer, father, husband, baseball fan, and 2005 graduate of Bellevue High School, Sam’s love for craft beer started in 2010 as a homebrewer, a hobby that quickly evolved into a full-fledged career. After honing his craft at Pyramid Brewing and Kulshan Brewing, Sam furthered his education at the prestigious Siebel Institute in Chicago and Doemens Academy in Munich, Germany, where he learned from some of the best German brewmasters.
This formal training helped shape the vision for Larrabee Lager Co., which officially opened in August 2023. The brewery’s inspiration stems from Sam’s travels in Europe, particularly in Bavaria, where he experienced a beer culture centered around simplicity and community.
“Instead of being flashy, trendy or overly creative, our beers focus on the beautiful simplicity of the core ingredients: freshly kilned malts, locally grown and imported hops, and delicately soft local water,” Sam says.
What sets Larrabee Lager Co. apart from the crowded craft beer scene is its commitment to Old World brewing traditions. “...I use the same techniques and processes that have been employed in Germany for hundreds of years. While these practices, such as spunding, decoction, and krausening, are neither cheap, fast, nor easy, I believe they are responsible for what makes our beer world class,” Sam shares. These time-consuming methods, which involve multiple stages of fermentation and maturation, contribute to the exceptional drinkability and smooth finish of their beers. For Sam, these processes aren’t just part of the job—they are a direct connection to the rich brewing history of Bavaria.
Larrabee Lager Co. has already made an impact, not just with its beers but with its community-minded approach. The brewery was awarded “2024 Small Brewery of the Year” at the Washington Beer Awards, alongside gold, silver, and bronze medals for their flagship Original Lager, Bavarian Hefeweizen and German-Style Pilsner. “It was an incredible honor to receive such a distinguished award in just our second year of operation,” says Sam.
Looking ahead, Sam’s vision for the brewery is simple: “Brew and sell more beer!” And he’s already seeing success, with Larrabee beers now pouring at local favorites like The Pumphouse Bar and Grill in Bellevue. Stop by for a pint, check out their website at larrabeelagerco.com, or give them a follow on Instagram @larrabeelagerco. Cheers, Bellevue!
Owner, Sam Milne
HOW THE ARTS AND CULTURE SCENE DRIVES DIVERSITY, INNOVATION, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
The Heart of Bellevue’s Creative Pulse
ARTICLE BY LORIE HOFFMAN AND JANELLE WETZSTEIN FOR CITY OF BELLEVUE
Artists Renjith-Vijna pose during the Bharatanatyam dance performance. Photo by House of Kala and Carbon Three Studios.
Emerald Ballet Theatre. Photography by Gaby Cavalcanti Photography
Kids Taiko Performance. Photography by Japan Fair
“The city embraces its diversity, a value reflected in its thriving arts scene.”
Bellevue’s arts and culture scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse traditions, where dance, music, and theater flourish alongside a growing network of innovative nonprofits. From hidden gems of the BelRed Arts District to citywide initiatives that fuel the local economy, Bellevue is proving that creativity is not just an expression—but a powerful driver of community and growth.
THE CURRENT ART SCENE
Bellevue boasts a wealth of dance, music, and theater that highlights the diverse cultures within its dynamic community. On any given Friday night, you can experience everything from classical Indian dance to pop-up art shows or Ukrainian folk stories brought to life on stage. The city embraces its diversity, a value reflected in its thriving arts scene.
A unique aspect of Bellevue’s arts ecosystem is the growing number of new nonprofit organizations behind many of these events. Most of these nonprofits have emerged over the past two decades and are still building their capacity. Even in the early stages of growth, these organizations produce shows marked by remarkable artistry and creativity.
THE BELRED ARTS DISTRICT
Despite its industrial facade, the BelRed Arts District is home to over 60 arts and culture nonprofits and small businesses. Older construction and lower rents have long attracted an impressive collection of creatives, tucked between mechanics and plumbers. Most district organizations focus on education and rehearsal space and do not offer retail services meaning they could easily be missed by the average passerby. Still, these hidden gems burst with life and creativity.
Recent district additions include Theatre33, an award-winning multi-lingual community theater; Coffee Dance Studio that specializes in K-Pop Dance classes; Rain City Needlepoint, which offers a staggering range of colors and threads; and Yuan Ru Art Center, a 5,000 sq. ft. fine art gallery.
BELLEVUE’S CREATIVE ECONOMY
The City of Bellevue primarily supports arts through grants. The Eastside Arts Partnership program offers a twoyear operational grant for nonprofit arts organizations, while Project Grants fund nonprofits, individual artists, and for-profit organizations providing free or accessible creative programs. Bellevue recently implemented an Arts and Cultural Facilities Grant program to support nonprofits that are building essential arts and culture spaces.
Bellevue’s Arts Team, part of the Cultural and Economic Development division, takes a holistic approach to arts and culture, offering traditional grants, public art programs, and small business support for creative professional development. This Creative Economy strategy helps foster the economic success of creative businesses and nurtures Bellevue’s artistic community.
A recent national study, “Arts and Economic Prosperity,” found Bellevue’s nonprofit arts sector generates $54.3 million in annual economic activity, supports 592 jobs, and creates $10.5 million in tax revenue. Even post-pandemic, the arts remain a vital industry, strengthening the community and economy.
PROJECTS FUNDED BY BELLEVUE’S NEW CULTURAL FACILITIES GRANT
With this exciting new grant program, Bellevue funded five projects in four different neighborhoods: The downtown KidsQuest Children’s Museum will upgrade its popular water exhibit; American Asian Performing Arts Theater in Lake Hills will build a new, expanded rehearsal space; Theatre33 in the BelRed Arts District will complete improvements that allow for summer youth programming; and the Carlson Theater at Bellevue College will see its first major upgrade since the theater was built in the 1970s.
INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED?
There are many ways to get involved in Bellevue’s arts scene to ensure it continues to influence the vitality of the city, from attending performances and taking classes to volunteering or joining a Board of Directors. Your support helps these organizations thrive and strengthens the community’s cultural vibrancy.
La Rosa
The Cocktail Club
Specially crafted by lead mixologist Chaz Lee at Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi, La Rosa is a vibrant fusion of flavors that will entice any home bar enthusiast this Valentine’s Day. Lee’s recipe
requires both an ISI whipping canister and two nitrous oxide (N₂O) cream chargers to create the foam that tops the cocktail, but the extra effort is worth the texture in each fruity-and-floral sip.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 medium strawberry
• 1.5 oz Rose-Infused Codigo 1530 Blanco
• 0.5 oz Naranjo Bitter Orange Liqueur
• 1 oz Pineapple Juice
• 0.25 oz Blood Orange Juice
• 0.25 oz Agave Syrup
• 0.25 oz Citric Acid Solution (see below)
• Mango Chamoy Foam (see below)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Muddle the strawberry in the bottom of a shaker tin.
2. Add all remaining ingredients except the foam into the shaker along with ice.
3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a coupe glass and top with Mango Chamoy Foam.
MANGO CHAMOY FOAM:
• 3 oz Lime Juice
• 2 oz Egg White
• 2 oz Mango Puree
• 2 oz Simple Syrup
• 1 oz Chamoy
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in the ISI Whipping Canister, seal the lid tightly and shake for 15 seconds to incorporate. Charge with one N₂O cream charger, shake for 30 seconds. Charge with a second N₂O cream charger and shake for another 30 seconds. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before use.
ROSE-INFUSED CODIGO 1530:
• 10 oz Codigo 1530 Blanco
• 6 g Organic Rose Petals
DIRECTIONS:
Combine Codigo 1530 Blanco and rose petals in a clean glass container. Store in a cool, dark place for 2 days to infuse. Strain the solids off and label the infused liquid.
CITRIC
ACID SOLUTION (10%):
• 15 g Citric Acid
• 150 g Warm Water
DIRECTIONS:
Combine warm water and citric acid until dissolved. Store in a glass container.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN JAMES, ASCEND HOSPITALITY GROUP
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Seattle Wedding Show 2025
Seattle Convention Center | 10:00 AM
The Seattle Wedding Show is a premier event for couples planning their big day! Featuring a curated selection of top wedding vendors, from florists to photographers, this event offers expert advice, inspiring ideas, and exclusive discounts. Whether you're just beginning your planning journey or finalizing details, the Wedding Show is your one-stop shop for all things wedding. For event details visit https://weddingshow.com/.
FEBRUARY 8TH
Valentine’s Day Dash 5K at Bellevue Park
Bellevue Downtown Park | 9:00 AM
Don’t miss the 6th annual Alexander’s Hope Valentine’s Day Dash 5K Run/ Walk at our NEW location – Bellevue Downtown Park on February 8th! All profits go to support lifesaving youth heart screenings in our community. This event offers t-shirts, medals, prizes, giveaways, a Free Kids Dash and more! Dogs & strollers are welcome! Sign up at alexandershope.org
FEBRUARY 20TH
Wintergrass Music Festival 2025
Hyatt Regency Bellevue | 8:30 AM
Join us at the Wintergrass Festival 2025, a premier celebration of bluegrass, acoustic, and roots music in Bellevue, WA! Featuring world-class performances, workshops, and jam sessions, Wintergrass brings together musicians and fans for an unforgettable weekend. Experience exceptional talent, explore diverse sounds, and immerse yourself in the heart of bluegrass culture. Don’t miss this iconic event happening February 20th-23rd!
Architect Bob Hoshide with Hoshide Wanzer Architects
designer D’neka Patten with Hoshide Wanzer Architects