33 minute read
Head to the Park: Your guide to the 66 days of summer
From festivals to movies, music and theater, local parks have you covered during the 66 days of summer
There’s a reason they call Seattle “The Emerald City” and Washington “The Evergreen State.” Seattle is home to 485 parks, and its neighboring cities offer hundreds more. Kent manages 43 parks, Bellevue 100, Auburn 33, and unincorporated King County is home to 205 more. From wooded and wild to grassy and groomed, parks throughout the region offer worlds of exploration, entertainment, activity, and exercise each summer. And the best part? Most of that fun is absolutely free. Below is our annual list of activities and outings to fill every day of summer from July 1 to September 4. This year, however, we’ve put a special emphasis on loading it with fun, free, park-based activities, events, and ideas. Hint: scroll the whole list and register early for activities that require it. As in years past, you’ll find a few things on the list that cost money, but most of these ideas are free. We hope you and your kids will remember summer 2024 as the season of “Let’s head to the park!”
July
Monday, July 1
It’s always play day on Pier 62 on the Seattle Waterfront. There is often a game of pickup soccer happening on the pier’s high-quality mini-soccer field and kids are welcome to jump in. Don’t forget protective gear and you may want to bring your own soccer ball to play among yourselves if no game is on. There are also free family-friendly classes and activities planned all summer long on the pier. When the kids are tuckered out, move on over to the corn hole game and giant chess or checkers boards. Find out more at waterfrontparkseattle.org/events. FREE
Tuesday, July 2
Get the lay of the land. Take a Seattle Think you know this city? Think again. The tour leaders at the Seattle Free Walking Tour have collected all sorts of interesting historical tidbits and stories that make their walking tours fun for the whole family. There are several tours to choose from, including the flagship Seattle 101, the Old Cemetery Tour and an insider’s tour of Pike Place Market. Love the tour? Donations welcome!
FREE
Wednesday, July 3
Go for a row! The Center for Wooden Boats offers free boat “rentals,” Wednesday through Friday on the south end of Lake Union. Hop on board one of the center’s brightly colored peapod boats and paddle out for an hour to get a close look at maritime Seattle. Life jackets are provided and required.
FREE
ONE MORE FOR TODAY: Beat the traffic and enjoy an early fireworks show at Ballinger Park put on by the City of Mountlake Terrace. Festivities will begin at 6 p.m., and the fun includes pie-eating contests, field games, a DJ, and more. The fireworks display will take place at approximately 10 p.m. FREE
Thursday, July 4
Celebrate the nation’s independence with a good old-fashioned fireworks show. In Seattle, Seafair will host this year’s rockets’ red glare with the best viewing at three different locations: Gas Works Park, South Lake Union Park, and Lake Union. The celebration in these parks runs from 3 to 11 p.m. with the light show around 10 p.m.. On the Eastside, the largest display will be in Bellevue and feature free live music, entertainment, food trucks, and plenty of children’s activities. The fireworks begin at 10:05 p.m. Are your children sensitive to fireworks noise or crowds? Bring the party home! Put on the silly hats, pull out the BBQ, make flag-colored popsicles, set up a scavenger hunt (see August 19), and end the night with oven-baked s’mores and a fireworks broadcast. If you watch the East Coast celebration, you’ll all be in bed by 10 p.m. FREE OTHER SHOWS AND TIMES INCLUDE: Arlington: Quake Park 10 p.m.
Bellevue: Downtown Park 10:05 p.m.
Carnation: Remlinger Farms 10:15 p.m.
Everett: Port Gardner Bay 10 p.m.
Federal Way: Celebration Park 10:15 p.m.
Kingston: Mike Wallace Park 10 p.m.
Sammamish: Vasa Park 10 p.m.
SeaTac: Angle Lake Park 10 p.m.
Snoqualmie: Snoqualmie Community Park 9:45 p.m.
Tacoma: Ruston Way Waterfront 10 p.m.
WAY MORE FOR TODAY: Today is the first Thursday free admission day at museums all around the Seattle area. So grab your crew to check out the incredible range of history, culture, plants and more at museums like the Museum of History & Industry, Museum of Flight, Seattle Art Museum, Burke Museum, National Nordic Museum, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, and the Volunteer Park Conservatory. FREE
Friday, July 5
Watch fire spinners practice their art at Gas Works Park today. The demonstrations will take place during Northwest Flow Fest Community Fire Jam, where more than 30 workshops in yoga, dance, circus, and flow arts will take place on the park’s concrete pad from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Through Sunday. Watching all that art is FREE.
Saturday, July 6
Seattle Seafair Pirates make their traditional landing at Alki Beach Park in West Seattle today, bringing fun and a lot of shenanigans off their boat and into the gathered crowd. It’s a 70-year-old tradition and the semi-official start of Seafair summer festivities. Pirates will entertain kids of all ages and offer treasures to boot. So dress up as your favorite pirates and join the fun from 1:30 to 5 p.m. FREE
ONE MORE: Visit the Amazon Spheres. Every kid wonders what’s inside. Book your 1-hour free visit for a time slot on the first or third Saturday of the month, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. seattlespheres.com FREE
Sunday, July 7
Check out what lives beneath the waters of Puget Sound today as you stroll with a Seattle Aquarium volunteer during low tide from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. It’s an invitation to discover Puget Sound’s multitude of marine plants and animals. Beach Naturalists program runs on low-tide days throughout the summer. You’ll find a beach naturalist waiting today at Carkeek Beach, Constellation Park/Charles Richey Viewpoint, Dash Point State Park, Des Moines Beach, Golden Gardens Beach, Lincoln Beach, Olympic Sculpture Park Pocket Beach, Redondo Beach, Richmond Beach, Saltwater Beach, and Seahurst Beach. Next chances: July 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; no naturalist at Des Moines beach, July 21 from 9:30 a.m., to 1:30 p.m.; no naturalist at Des Moines beach, July 22 from 10:30 a.m to 2 p.m and July 23 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. FREE
Monday, July 8
What does a beaver house look like? Find out by visiting the Beaver Lodge Sanctuary, located at 37th Avenue E and E McGilvra St. in Madison Park. You’ll find this woodsy water sanctuary at the end of a short, semi-hidden gravel path, shoehorned between a couple of classic homes and a golf course. Look for piles of crisscrossed logs, groomed branches, and other signs of an active beaver dam, as well as other wildlife. The first one who spots the dam gets to choose what’s for dinner! Looking for other unusual spots to explore? Check out “Have you heard about Seattle’s hidden shoreline beaches and outdoor spaces?” on the SDOT Blog at sdotblog.seattle.gov FREE
ONE MORE: Check out the family-friendly Magic Monday show at Third Place Books in Ravenna at 6:30 p.m. tonight and every second Monday of the month. Each show features the Pacific Northwest’s finest magicians performing feats of mystery, wonder, and bizarreness. With its origins in the theaters of London and New York, Magic Monday is a cabaret of conjuring in the intimate setting of a bookstore. FREE
AND ONE MORE: Hey water-loving kids ages 9 to 13! The Washington State Parks Boating Program will be holding a free water safety course today (paid for by the No Child Left Inside grant) at Alki Beach Park, east of the Alki Bathhouse. The program teaches the basics of paddle safety, water competency, and teamwork through on-water and land-based instruction. Participants will receive a life jacket and four hours of instruction during the Washington State Paddle Safe class. More classes will be held at different locations so search for “Paddle Safe” at the code below to find other date options. Space is limited so register early. tinyurl.com/5ktr7er4 FREE
Tuesday, July 9
There’s a lot of action happening at the Ballard Locks and Carl S. English Botanical Garden. The locks work to keep fresh water and salt water separated. Explore the visitor’s center and museum (open Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), take a guided tour of the locks to learn how salmon use them during their migration, and watch the boats rise and fall between gates. Each summer, the Carl S. English Botanical Garden is a great place to picnic, roll down hills, and wander through the foliage. FREE
Wednesday, July 10
Help your community! Grab a group of friends and spend a few hours beautifying Alki Beach through the Block Drop program. The program supplies buckets, vests, and pick-sticks and collects the garbage you gather; you provide the environmental preservation spirit. Head to the beach any day and look for Block Drop signs or go online to set up a group drop in a specific neighborhood. Once you’re done, the beach is yours to enjoy! FREE
Thursday, July 11
Bring your friends and family, picnic blankets, dance moves, and good vibes to Gas Works Park from 7 to 10 p.m. for an evening of free music, performances, and circus arts awesomeness. It’s a burning man-style gathering from Levity Arts that’s family-friendly and designed to build community and creative inspiration. FREE
ONE MORE: Take a trip to The Reptile Zoo in Monroe to experience Close Encounters with real reptiles. This zoo has the most extensive collection of reptiles on display that you will find in the Pacific Northwest, including turtles, alligators, lizards and many types of snakes (even some venomous types such as cobras and rattlesnakes). Some of their most pop ular animals include a turtle with two heads, an albino alligator, and Aldabra giant tortoises.
AND YET ANOTHER: The King County Fair kicks off today (through July 14) with all the favorite carnival rides, entertainment, demonstrations, and 4-H animals at Enumclaw Expo Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 5-12.
Friday, July 12
Imagine a Day Out With Thomas (as in Thomas the Tank Engine). The event at Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie includes a bubble-blowing zone and bubble bouncer-ball racing, the chance to play with Thomas & Friends toys, live entertainment, a maze, crafts, stories, and the chance to meet Sir Topham Hatt. And, of course, several train rides. Tickets are $28-$32 each for all ages. Through July 28. Need more info? Go to trainmuseum.org/thomas
ONE MORE: Head to the Northgate Community Center’s lawn today to celebrate the center’s 18th anniversary with a community-wide party. The event includes live music, class demonstrations, games, and free food and beverages. 5-7:30 p.m. FREE
Saturday, July 13
Keep rolling through Seattle Bicycle Give them more practice Lake Washington Boulevard, which will be closed to traffic to make room for cyclists and walkers all day today and tomorrow, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Not sure how to get them rolling on their own or where best to practice riding in the greater Seattle area? Check out “Teach a child to ride a bike using these 4 steps” at 3Seattleschild.com. For all bicycle weekend dates go to seattle.gov/parks/about-us/projects/bicycleweekends FREE
MORE CELEBRATION! Head to Pasado’s Safe Haven today for a vegan ice cream social summer kick-off, including Journey the Cow’s 6th Birthday celebration. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $35 for adults, $15 for kids ages 3-10, free for ages 2 and younger. pasadosafehaven.org
ONE MORE: Dress up as your favorite superheroes today and march over to Wallingford for the annual Wallingford Parade, a celebration of all the heroes in the community who do good things for others. There will be dogs, drill teams, marching bands, and floats in this show, which rolls through Wallingford on North 45th Street starting at 11 a.m.. The 2024 theme is “Be a Hero.” Read how to participate at celebratewallingfordwa.org FREE
Sunday, July 14
Ice cream and exercise, what better pairing is there? Sign up for the 4th annual Sundae Runday, a 5K run, a 2-mile walk, or Kids’ Dash through sprawling Genesee Park, along the shores of Lake Washington. And at the end of the race, reward! Each participant wins a trip through the sundae toppings bar! All ages welcome. The race benefits Let Me Run, which teaches boys to be their best selves through a character development program powered by running. Runs are $45 for walkers or runners; $10 for Kids’ Dashers. Register at runsignup.com
Monday, July 15
It’s a great day to go plawk or plog in your local or favorite park. Yes, these are real words. Plawking or plogging is the simple act of taking a walk or a jog and picking up trash along the way — all part of the effort to keep community resources like parks and neighborhoods beautiful. The pastime, which originated in Sweden, is great exercise and a wonderful way to show your parks some love. Grab your walking sticks, tie trash bags to your waists, and plawk the litter into the bag. Then place it in a trash bin. Learn more at Plogging.org FREE
Tuesday, July 16
Hunt for gnomes! Maple Valley’s half-mile Gnome Trail, located in the Rock Creek Natural Area, is cool parkland that’s a perfect fit for a hot summer day. The canopy of trees provides some sun protection and, no matter how many times you go, kids are destined to meet a new gnome along the path. Be on the lookout for a 3-foot-tall gnome named George, the largest on this walk. Check out our article “Gnomes’ sweet home: A Visit to Maple Valley” at Seattleschild.com. FREE
Wednesday, July 17
Visit the Seattle Japanese Garden. This 3.5-acre urban oasis in the Washington Park Arboretum is one of the city’s gems and a celebration of Japanese artistry and presence in this region. After your tour, extend your time in nature by strolling through the arboretum. Hours vary with the season, so check before you go. The garden opens at noon on July 4 and August 1 and every first Thursday of the month. It is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last entrance is 45 minutes before closing. First Thursdays are FREE.
Thursday, July 18
A walk, a story, time in nature, and a little literary adventure — what’s not to like about a story walk? The non-profit group PopUp StoryWalk integrates children’s stories (some by local authors) into popular trail walks in and around East King County. Check out the Pretzel Tree Trail, a permanent story walk installation, in Issaquah. Learn where and when new stories will be displayed at facebook.com/popupstorywalk/ FREE
Friday, July 19
Step into the colorful universe of Play Time, where music, dance, and storytelling collide, hosted by the dynamic duo, Merri Ann Osborne (Mahogany Project) and Chino Gonzales (Bonnet Black). This all ages event invites you and yours to answer brain-teasing trivia questions, dive into hilarious improv games, and contribute to community art. Each episode of Play Time is unique. Along the way, you’ll uncover the stories of artists from the African Diaspora, both past and present, and their impactful legacies. Head to Garfield Community Center in Seattle Fridays from 5:30-7:30 p.m to learn from a different local guest artist who brings their own creative talents to the game show each time. Learn more at bonnetblack.com. FREE
Saturday, July 20
Bark by the Bay is all about the dogs (and their families) Head south to University Place’s Chambers Creek Regional Park for an afternoon of dog activities and games, dog art projects, treat hunting, adoptions, live demos, off-leash zones, a parade (at noon), and a costume contest. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $10 per vehicle.
ONE MORE: The MaST Center Aquarium in Des Moines, one of the region’s hidden gems, holds free public Discovery Days on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The center’s aquarium holds 3,000 gallons of seawater, and more than 250 native Puget Sound species. Two large touch tanks are a draw for all ages. Don’t miss the 38-foot Gray Whale skeleton and other marine mammal skeletons on display. FREE
Sunday, July 21
The artistry of Kubota Gardens, operated by the Seattle parks department, awaits your family today — and every day from sunrise to sunset. Kubota is truly the “hidden jewel of Rainier Beach.” These lush gardens offer more than beautiful plants in the Japanese tradition; there are also 11 ponds, two red bridges, 140 varieties of maple trees, and 30 varieties of hydrangea. It’s the perfect place for a quiet game of hideand-seek, to marvel at the shapes of bonsai, and to partake of a picnic. FREE
Monday, July 22
Build driftwood forts in Lincoln Park. Strange structures are popping up along the beaches of beautiful Lincoln Park in West Seattle. Each week a new teepee or art structure rises up from the wood-strewn beach on the west side of the park. Follow the sidewalk at the south end down to the beach. Or make it a forest adventure first, winding your way through the Lincoln Park woodlands and down several long staircase paths to the water. Did we mention there’s a troll in this park? Hint: head north on the beachside path. FREE
ONE MORE FOR TODAY: Introduce your well-mannered kids ages 10 and older to yoga and a new kind of bath — one that resonates inside the body. St. Mark’s Cathedral offers free community yoga and a sound bath on the third Monday of the month. The doors into the cathedral are opened at 6 p.m. and entry is closed at 6:45 p.m. You must attend the yoga session to enjoy the extended savasana and sound bath from 7:30–8 p.m. Bring a blanket and yoga mat and invite these healing sounds to wash over the whole family. Ages 10 and older; kids should be able to sit quietly for 90 minutes. FREE
Tuesday, July 23
Jump in at a free swimming beach. There are many options for swimming in the greater Seattle area and several where lifeguards help to keep swimmers safe. In Seattle, Madrona Park Beach, Matthews Beach Park, West Green Lake Beach, Seward Park, and Pritchard Island Beach have lifeguards on duty. Check the Seattle Parks and Recreation to confirm guards’ presence. On the Eastside, great swimming bets are: Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah, Juanita Beach Park and Houghton Beach Park both in Kirkland, Idylwood Beach Park in Redmond, and Meydenbauer Bay Park in Bellevue. In the south end, Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park is the spot. Always be sure there is a lifeguard on duty or a designated adult watching children in the water. seattle.gov/parks/recreation/outdoorwater-recreation/swimming-beaches FREE
Wednesday, July 24
Make the rounds to themed playgrounds. Have an aspiring astronaut in the family or someone who loves trains? Maybe a kid who likes to play board games? Fuel their passions at a themed playground today. Zip down the line at Wilburton Park in Bellevue, climb the Jupiter structure at space-themed North Kirkland Community Park, and knock one out of the park at Shoreline’s baseball playground at Shoreview Park. Hop square to square at the colorful Chutes and Ladders-inspired West Fenwick Park in Kent. Check out “10 fun, themed playgrounds in the Seattle area to explore” at Seattleschild.com. FREE
Thursday, July 25
There’s a new reason to take your clan to Pacific Sci ence Center: the new Pollina tor Path. Using a Native-led in terpretive approach, this exhibit encourages visitors to reflect on the intertwined and cyclical relationship between plants, pollinators, animals, and humans. Native plant, pollinator, and animal names that have been used for millennia — and are still used today — by local and regional Indigenous communities will be on display. The Pollinator Path exhibit is included with admission, $23-$30 for adults, $20 for youth (3-17), and free for toddlers.
Friday, July 26
Bellevue Art Museum (BAM) Arts Fair opens today. Expose your kids to the creative minds and energies of hundreds of artists during the largest arts-and-crafts festival in the Northwest. BAM Fair isn’t just for grownups. Kids and their families are invited to the museum tomorrow and Sunday for a fun weekend of hands-on art projects, games, and gallery activities from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. And back by popular demand, “Chalk-it-up” next to the Museum on 6th Street during Kids Fair hours. Approved sidewalk chalk will be available on-site so leave your chalk at home. All are welcome, but most stations are best-suited for ages 3-10.
The fair runs through Sunday. Get the scoop at bellevuearts.org/artsfair. FREE
Saturday, July 27
There are parades, and there are PARADES. The Seafair Torchlight Parade (aka Alaska Airlines Torchlight Parade) is the latter. It’s the parade of the year in Seattle with a long line of colorful floats, drill teams, bands, and pirates moving down 4th Avenue (from Seattle Center to Seneca Street). The march runs from 3 to 6 p.m. but get there early to find your viewing spot. Don’t mess with traffic — either bus or take the light rail to downtown. See all Seafair events at seafair.org. FREE
Sunday, July 28
You don’t have to go far to have a real farm adventure. Kelsey Creek Community Park and Kelsey Creek Farm sit on 150 acres of forest, meadows, and wetlands in the heart of Bellevue. Visit the farm’s historic barns and popular petting yard, then hike park trails, hit the playground, and picnic on a grassy knoll to get the most out of this fun, very full day. FREE
Monday, July 29
Speaking of farms in parks, today’s a great day to visit the petting zoo at Redmond’s Farrel-McWhirter Park. It’s one thing to see animals; it’s quite another (and a lot more fun for most kids) to touch them. Today you’re in for a hands-on experience with chickens, bunnies, pigs, horses, and more. The farm at Farrell McWhirter offers kid-friendly classes about animals, their behaviors and their habitats. Check out “Best family farms and petting zoos around Seattle” at Seattleschild.com. FREE
Tuesday, July 30
It’s Duck Dodge night at Lake Union! This fun and funny boat racing event takes place Tuesday nights through September 3 and each week brings a new theme, including onesie night, pirate night, and more. Tonight’s theme is “the Olympics.” Costume up, pack a picnic, and watch the races from Gas Works Park Hill.
Wednesday, July 31
Embark on a summertime tradition: squeeze some lemons. Invite your kids to have fun and make a little money for a special treat or a favorite cause. Pull out old boxes, duct tape and markers to help your crew fashion a lemonade stand, then squeeze those lemons, take your spot on a lawn chair and let your little entrepreneurs work the pitch. This free activity has some start-up costs, but with luck they’ll be recouped in vigorous sales!
August
Thursday, August 1
Look to the skies today to see the U.S. Blue Angels precision aeronautics team practicing for their Seafair show. Flights are scheduled for 11 a.m. to noon, noon to 1 p.m., 2:20-3:20 p.m., and 3:20-3:30 p.m. over Lake Washington. Note: The flight schedule is subject to change. Head to any Lake Washington beachside park in Seattle (Seward Park and Madrona Beach Park are good bets) or Bellevue (Chism Beach, Medina Beach, and Enatai Beach) for great views.
ONE MORE: Check out dinosaur bones at the Burke Museum,
Puppy Crawl. Give your kids the leash and let their furry sib lead the way through the park, picking up treats along the path. Treats will be peppered throughout the park. FREE
Sunday, August 11
Step back in time to 1855 today at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum’s annual Brigade Encampment. This event recreates the bustle and excitement of the historic visit of fur traders to Fort Nisqually in 1855. Families with kids of all ages will meet living history interpreters at their tents and receive hands-on lessons on period skills and games. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Google “Fort Nisqually” and get tickets in advance. Prices TBD.
Monday, August 12
It’s a great day to pull out a blanket, pack a picnic, and laze in a park reading! Each year, King County Library System challenges kids to take the summer reading challenge. The goal? Read for 20 minutes each summer day through August 31. On your way to the park, stop at your local library where librarians are full of ideas. FREE
ONE MORE: Hey kids ages 13 to 17! Head over to Magnuson Community Center to ‘Rock the Park’ with Seattle Parks and Rec. Kick back and relax, cook some food, play games, take a field trip today. A form must be filled out to participate. Contact Jiordi at 206-684-7026 for form and to learn about drop-in spots. Register at seattle.gov/parks.
Tuesday, August 13
Douse yourselves at the International Fountain at Seattle Center. It’s the mothership of hot weather spray parks. The fountain sits on a cement foundation surrounded by a velodrome; so consider knee and elbow pads for younger kids. Snacks, bathrooms, and often inside entertainment are available in the nearby Seattle Center Armory. FREE
Wednesday, August 14
Climb a tree — or several trees. We know, we know. There’s danger in climbing trees. On the other hand, it’s a child’s summer rite of passage. So find a big, branchy one, stay near your climbers to help prevent a fall, and let them enjoy this summer classic. Have a timed competition, but set the rules on how far up. Google Wiki How: “How to Climb a Tree” for great preparation advice (with illustrations) and safety tips. FREE
Thursday, August 15
Show some Blackberry love. Head to your local park and pick! Not sure where to go? These parks are often overrun with bushes: Discovery Park in Magnolia, all along Burke Gilman Trail, and in Bridle State Park between Kirkland and Redmond. You’re also likely to find them at Beacon Hill Food Forest and Magnuson, Seward and Carkeek parks in Seattle, and at Hamlin Park and along the Interurban bike trail in Shoreline. Check out “Blackberries: All You Need to Know to Pick Your Own” at Seattleschild.com.
Friday, August 16
Fly over to Dragonflight Convention, “Seattle’s longest-running tabletop gaming convention.” The event, which takes place at the Hilton Bellevue, includes hundreds of hosted games and multiple tournaments. Don’t miss the family area of the convention, where you’ll find dress-up clothes, a library of kids’ books, arts and crafts for kids, a kids’ game library, croquet, Robo Rally LARP (live-action role play) with robot costume-making, and other activities perfect for those aged 12 and under (accompanied by an adult).
11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. $60 for a 3-day pass or $30-40 for one day (adult), kids ages 12 and younger free.
Saturday, August 17
Play Wheelchair Basketball the Seattle PlayGarden. Children and youth of all ages and abilities are welcome. Extra chairs and balls will be provided as coach Nick and other wheelchair basketball players and coaches help newbies give the sport a try. In partnership with Rainier Adaptive Sports & Seattle Adaptive Sports. 10 a.m. to noon. Learn more at seattleplaygarden.org/events. FREE
ONE MORE: The annual Big Day of Play is a celebration of Seattle’s diversity, encouraging neighbors, communities, and families to have fun, build relationships, and be active together. The summer 2024 event is happening today from noon to 5 p.m. at Rainier Playfields and Mt. Baker Rowing and Sailing Center. You can also take part online through YouTube, Facebook, and the Big Day of Play website. To see the lineup of fun planned for the day, go to bigdayofplay.org/event-info FREE
ONE MORE: It’s T-Rex race day at Emerald Downs, the racetrack in Auburn. Yep, you heard that right. Racing T-Rexes (or folks dressed up like the old dinos) from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Can your kids even tell them apart? Cost $4-8 and up.
AND ONE MORE: How about a ferry ride to Suquamish on Bainbridge Island today? Once there, you’ll take part in the Suquamish Tribe’s Chief Seattle Days weekend. The Suquamish — known as People of the Clear Salt Water — will celebrate the great chief with canoe races, softball, and horseshoe tournaments, games, traditional singing, and more. A memorial service will be held at the gravesite of Chief Seattle at 10 a.m., followed by a salmon bake at noon. suquamish.nsn.us/csd-landing FREE
Sunday, August 18
Go fishing! The statewide 2024 Trout Derby runs every day this summer. Kids ages 14 and younger fish for free, while adults and youth 15 and older must purchase a fishing permit ($11.35/day). Go to a King County lake participating in the derby (Cottage Lake, Green Lake, Lake Margaret, Langlois Lake, Pine Lake, Steel Lake, Wilderness Lake), drop in your line, and if you catch a trout with a blue tag, keep the tag. To claim your prize, log onto the state wildlife department’s webpage, enter the tag number, the lake you caught it in, the date it was caught, and your contact information. wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/contests/trout-derby
Monday, August 19
Use the park as an obstacle course or scavenger hunt today! Pick a park near you and load up your blankets, hula hoops, and other easily portable items to use in an obstacle course. Invite your kids’ friends to each bring one item to add to the course. And of course, include playground equipment in your challenge. Once it’s set up, kids go through it one at a time, timed on every try. The goal is to beat your first time by your third time through. Water and snacks are a must. FREE
Tuesday, August 20
Put on your own play or variety show in the park (or your backyard). Gather some friends, make up a play or plan a talent show, cobble some costumes together from around the house, invite parents, grandparents, siblings, and neighbors, and stage your show. Need a stage? Lay washable blankets or sheets on the ground to map out your space. Need lighting? Designate one or two people as the lighting crew and hand them flashlights so they can spotlight the actors. Don’t forget the cue cards! Need play ideas? Check out the article “Put on a Show! How to Turn Your Backyard Into a Theater” by our colleagues at PDX Parent in Portland, OR. FREE
Wednesday, August 21
Calling wannabe chefs! Kids ages 11 to 17 are invited to drop in at the International District Community Center for the center’s Teen Chef program from 3-5 p.m. today. They’ll learn culinary techniques, work collaboratively, and have a blast in this easy-to-follow class from Seattle Parks and Recreation. FREE
ONE MORE: Head over to Port Orchard to tour the Lady Washington, the state’s mascot tall sailing vessel (as in pirate days). Crew will be onboard to answer questions for visitors young and old. Suggested donation of $5 is welcome. Through August 26. historicalseaport.org FREE
Thursday, August 22
Today’s the day to learn bocce ball, a game that originated in Eygpt 7,000 years ago. Visit Les Gove Park in Auburn where all ages are invited to participate in free bocce instruction at the park’s Bocce Courts every Tuesday and Thursday, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. through mid-October. All ages. The adjoining Discovery Playground is a little climbers’ paradise and includes an ADA swing. The park’s spray feature will cool everyone off. FREE
Friday, August 23
It’s board game day! Playing Ticket to Ride or Candy Land on the living room floor might seem simplistic, but in the big list of summer activities, a low-key game day might be just the breather you need. Equally important, games help your kids practice their math, language, and strategy skills. So dust off the classic games from your childhood for a dose of nostalgia and head to Queen Anne’s Blue Highway Games all-age game tonight (or any Friday) from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. bluehighwaygames.com FREE
Saturday, August 24
Turn your kids on to the strategic game of chess today at the Detective Cookie Chess Club. Recommended for kids ages 7 and older, it’s a great place to learn the game, enjoy a gentle challenge, and build community. Parents are welcome to play, too. The club takes place at Rainier Beach Community Center from noon to 2 p.m. FREE
MORE GET-YOUR-GAME-ON: Continue your board game spree at Meadowbrook Community Center or Yesler Community Center in Seattle today, any time between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. (Yesler) or 4:30 p.m. (Meadowbrook). Just bring your favorite games or try one of the centers’ games. Kids under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult, so roll your sleeves up and jump into the games with them. FREE
FOR KIDS WITH ASD: Today is sensory-friendly morning at MoPOP, an opportunity for adults, youth, and families to experience the museum with lower volume and light levels (8 to 10 a.m.) Tickets are $10 per adult, $9 per youth. Best for kids ages 8 and older.
Sunday, August 25
What would the Harvest Festival be like in a medieval village? Find out while enjoying archery and sword demonstrations, music, dance, and more at Camlann Medieval Village in Carnation. Adults $15, kids ages 6-12 $10. Children ages 5 and younger are free. Dinner is available by reservation at an additional cost. camlann.org
Monday, August 26
If making art is just your kid’s thing, head to Seattle Parks and Rec’s Donnie Chin Children’s Park in the International District today from 3-5 p.m. for “Art in the Park.” They’ll learn to make classic crafts like papier mache, along with some not-so-ordinary pieces. This park has unique play equipment, including drums and an iconic bronze dragon sculpture by Gerard Tsutakawa. FREE
Tuesday, August 27
Did you know there are more than 3,000 roses representing more than 200 va rieties at the Woodland Park Zoo Rose Garden? This pesticide-free garden is located at the southeast end of the zoo and is a feast for the senses. Can your kids guess how many varieties of roses are planted here (without you spilling the beans)? The garden is open from 7:30 a.m. until dusk every day of the year. FREE
Wednesday, August 28
Juggling anyone? Ever wondered how they do it? Drop in at the Seattle Parks and Rec Ballard Community Center to learn this fun and impressive skill. All ages are welcome, so bring the family and then put on a show for yourselves once you’ve got the hang of it. 5:15-7:45 p.m. FREE
ONE MORE: Get them out to play and practice ULTIMATE frisbee skills from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the Ravenna upper playfield in Seattle’s Ravenna Park. Volunteer coaches will be on hand to lead a fun practice and help kids develop skills and game strategy. All skill levels are welcome. FREE
Thursday, August 29
Get out and geocache. A great family activity, geocaching uses a phone app and GPS technology to lead players on a worldwide hunt for specially placed containers, called “geocaches” or “caches.” Once you find the cache, you log it, leave it, and start navigating toward another container. There are literally hundreds of caches all around Puget Sound. HINT: City parks are popular spots for caching. Check out 3geocaching.com. Remember geocache treasures are for everyone. Leaving what you find for the next player keeps it fun. FREE
Friday, August 30
Video games. They are to young people today what reading and kickball were to kids of yore. Step into the play at PAX West, where visitors can play pre-release video games, watch game competitions, and see a whole lot of costumes. There will be video game lovers of all ages in this popular event. At the Washington State Convention Center through September 2. For details and cost, visit 3west.paxsite.com.
ONE MORE: Today’s the day to “Do the Puyallup.” Head south for the first day of the Washington State Fair. This largest and oldest fair in the state takes place at Washington State Fair Events Center and runs through September 22. Rides and attractions cost, but admission is FREE.
One more: Mark the almost-end of summer with Tukwila End of Summer Bash at Tukwila Community Center tonight. The event includes family activities, a variety of food trucks, back-to-school gear, and an evening movie in the park, “Kung Fu Panda 4.” The bash starts at 6 p.m. FREE
Saturday, August 31
How about going out for a run as a family today? The Summer Spirit Run in Magnuson Park is a fun and funky event where dogs are welcome (on leash) and kids have a blast, whether they do the kids’ dash or run along with their parents in the 5k. Registration is $30 for the 5k and $5 for the dash. Just do it!
Sunday, September 1
All aboard! Head to the Great Northern & Cascade Railway at Depot Parkin Skykomish today. The depot museum and souvenir shop are open Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. year-round. Kids can take unlimited miniature train rides today and every Saturday and Sunday through the last weekend in October. Rides run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rides take 10-12 minutes on a double loop trip over 5,000 feet of track that includes a tunnel, a snow shed, and two bridges. FREE
Monday, September 2
Hone the whole family’s rock climbing skills, or try it for the first time, on practice walls throughout the greater Seattle area. Check out Schurman Rock in West Seattle’s Camp Long, open to the public when not being used for classes. You’ll find a sizable climbing wall at Les Gove Park in Auburn — a 30-foot climber with three lead routes and eight belay stations. Or check out the free outdoor wall at Marymoor Park in Redmond. For safety’s sake, an adult should always be present when kids are trying to scramble. FREE
Tuesday, September 3
School starts tomorrow, so take a “Do Nothing” day. You’ve hiked, you’ve biked, you’ve played, you’ve danced. You’ve visited tide pools and petting zoos and museums. Instead of cramming in one more end-of-summer event or activity, how about just hanging out as a family and perhaps engaging in or starting a new back-to-school tradition? Spaghetti dinner anyone? Stage a first-day fashion show, then early into jammies — parents, too. Finally, settle onto the couch for a low-stress family flick before hitting the hay early. Tomorrow’s a big day. FREE
Wednesday, September 4
Let’s pretend it’s still summer. Head to the park and play the afternoon and evening away. How about a quick collection of fallen leaves and branches? Can you identify the type of plant they come from? Check out the free PlantNet and PlantSnap apps from your phone’s app store and use them to ID the leaves your kids collect. FREE
