Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area include conservation, recycling, and other activities designed to educate us on the benefits of protecting our natural resources through mindful living. Many events are free, but some require that you register in advance. We might also include events that have a … [Read more...] about Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Hobbies & Interests
Where and when to see cherry blossom trees
Flowering cherry trees burst into bloom, usually from mid-March through mid-April throughout the Pacific Northwest. Exactly when depends on the variety: early blooming versus late blooming. Seattle cherry blossom season begins with (red/pink) buds that burst into (pink/white) flower. As the flowers fade, the trees … [Read more...] about Where and when to see cherry blossom trees
Tours & Special Events at Seattle Japanese Garden
The Seattle Japanese Garden is located in Madison Valley within the Washington Park Arboretum. Over 100,000 people visit every year, including locals as well as visitors from around the world. It is one of the most highly regarded Japanese-style gardens in North America. About Japanese Gardens Gardens in Japan are … [Read more...] about Tours & Special Events at Seattle Japanese Garden
2025 Solstice and Equinox dates
The word solstice comes from the Latin word solstitium, meaning sol (sun) and stitium (to stop). The solstice occurs twice a year, when it reaches the northernmost point (summer in the norther hemisphere) and southernmost point (winter in the northern hemisphere). Each solstice indicates the stop of the sun before it … [Read more...] about 2025 Solstice and Equinox dates
15 fish hatcheries you can visit in Washington State
You may not know there are many, many salmon fish hatcheries throughout Washington State. Fish hatcheries here and across the country help manage and restore America's fish populations. Together, the hatcheries support a variety of fish species and habitat conservation, endangered species recovery, tribal fishing … [Read more...] about 15 fish hatcheries you can visit in Washington State
Annual bird count events
Bird populations are always shifting and changing. Bird count events help collect data that highlight changes in bird populations, from weather and other phenomena. Anyone can volunteer to participate, whether you are brand new to bird watching or an experienced "birder" familiar with many species. Annual bird count … [Read more...] about Annual bird count events
Bird Watching in the Puget Sound region
Bird watching is a popular activity for many residents and visitors in the Puget Sound region and one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the country. More than 500 bird species have been observed in Washington State. It is relatively easy to see and study birds in the wild. Washington State draws … [Read more...] about Bird Watching in the Puget Sound region
Big Seattle Boat Show
The Seattle Boat Show is the West Coast's Largest Boat Show featuring every kind of recreational watercraft, from stand-up paddleboards to superyachts and everything in between. The Boat Show also has acres of accessories, all the latest gear, and free boating & fishing seminars, including low-tech and high-tech … [Read more...] about Big Seattle Boat Show
Free stargazing events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Stargazing is simply observing the night sky. It's an enjoyable hobby enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts and amateur astronomers. It's an activity that can be done any time of the year, alone, with friends, or at a group "star party". You can also pursue an interest in astronomy from your backyard or neighborhood … [Read more...] about Free stargazing events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Tacoma Museum of Glass free and discount admission
Tacoma Museum of Glass is a contemporary art museum on the Thea Foss Waterway. The museum has a national reputation for hosting impactful artist residencies, exhibiting national traveling exhibitions, creating unique programs for visitors, and building a permanent collection that chronicles the development of modern … [Read more...] about Tacoma Museum of Glass free and discount admission
Spectacular Asian gardens in the Puget Sound region
Here's a list of Japanese and Chinese gardens in the Puget Sound region. Most of these Puget Sound gardens offer FREE admission. The Seattle Japanese Garden at the Washington Park Arboretum is the most well-known. However, there are at least 10 more you can visit, from Everett to Tacoma and Bellevue. They are … [Read more...] about Spectacular Asian gardens in the Puget Sound region
Woodland Park Zoo: discount tickets & special exhibits
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Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo is a 92-acre urban oasis located on Phinney Ridge. The Zoo presents exhibits featuring animals in their natural habitat, is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and certified by the American Humane Conservation program. The zoo is dedicated to wildlife … [Read more...] about Woodland Park Zoo: discount tickets & special exhibits
Free comic book days
Free Comic Book Days are simply that--a day when you can get a free comic book from well-known publishers like DC Comics and Marvel Comics at participating comic book specialty shops across North America and around the world. They give away comic books--absolutely free--to anyone who comes into their shops. Don't … [Read more...] about Free comic book days
Puget Sound Estuarium in Olympia
The Puget Sound Estuarium was founded in 2007 by the South Sound Estuary Association (SSEA) as a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to foster learning opportunities that inspire people of all ages to enjoy the unique estuary* environment of Puget Sound. * Estuary: where a river meets the sea, mixing fresh water … [Read more...] about Puget Sound Estuarium in Olympia
Sunflowers Fields & Festivals in Washington State
Like our tulip fields in spring, acres of beautiful blooming sunflowers are another unique and stunning photo opportunity. Sunflowers typically bloom August-September in Western Washington. Several farms hold festivals during the blooming season. Enjoy self-guided field trips and u-pick opportunities. Below you … [Read more...] about Sunflowers Fields & Festivals in Washington State
National Alpaca Farm Days
Alpaca farms all across the country welcome visitors for National Alpaca Farm Days every September to see and learn about these tranquil and majestic animals. There are several participating farms in Western Washington State. About the Alpaca Owners Association Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, the … [Read more...] about National Alpaca Farm Days
BrickCon convention for Adult Fans Of LEGO
Seattle's BrickCon is a convention for Adult Fans Of LEGO®* (AFOL) and LEGO collectors, builders, and enthusiasts from around the country and around the world. If you are interested in LEGO--casually or intensely--you will enjoy the BrickCon Exhibition. It's the longest running LEGO convention in a single … [Read more...] about BrickCon convention for Adult Fans Of LEGO
State and County Fairs in Washington State
Washington state has a rich agricultural heritage. A visit to a state or county fair is an excellent way to sample local foods and enjoy free and cheap entertainment. Fairs are a family-friendly activity. Fairs are also a way to see live local and headliner bands at a fraction of the typical price (or even free). … [Read more...] about State and County Fairs in Washington State
Getaway: August Kite Festival in Long Beach (170 mi. SW)
The Washington State International Kite Festival (WSIKF) is an annual week-long kite celebration and competition in breezy Long Beach, WA. Held during the third full week of August, starting on Monday and ending on Sunday, WSIKF is presented by the World Kite Museum and the City of Long Beach, Washington. Kitelife … [Read more...] about Getaway: August Kite Festival in Long Beach (170 mi. SW)
Evergreen State Fair in Monroe
The Evergreen State Fair is a family-friendly celebration of all things Washington, showcasing the state's rich livestock and agriculture heritage. Held in Snohomish County north of Seattle, it the county’s largest event. Activities at the Evergreen State Fair for visitors include free entertainment on the courtyard … [Read more...] about Evergreen State Fair in Monroe
Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a non-profit organization that celebrates the rich and varied watercraft heritage that is a vital part of the Puget Sound region. At this hands-on maritime museum, the exhibits are on the water and the public is encouraged to use them. CWB is dedicated to preserving maritime … [Read more...] about Center for Wooden Boats, Seattle and Camano Island
Getaway: Lavender farms on the Washington Peninsula (66 mi NW via ferry)
Lavender farms can be found in various parts of Washington State. The largest cluster is on the northeast corner of the Olympic Peninsula, near the town of Sequim and the surrounding Dungeness Valley. This area is widely known for premium lavender. Visitors come from around the world to experience the beauty of this … [Read more...] about Getaway: Lavender farms on the Washington Peninsula (66 mi NW via ferry)
Free outdoor summer dance lessons in Seattle
Dancing 'Til Dusk presented by Dancing for Joy offers free dance lessons, followed by free music and dancing in August at selected Seattle parks. For each event, the first hour will be a beginning lesson in the dance style for the evening. No experience or partner is required. Each lesson will start at the beginning … [Read more...] about Free outdoor summer dance lessons in Seattle
Seattle Hempfest all things cannabis festival
Seattle Hempfest is held the third weekend in August each year in Myrtle Edwards and Centennial Parks on the Seattle waterfront.. For over two decades it has been the largest gathering of speakers on cannabis policy reform in the world, as well as a sophisticated and socially responsible cannabis rally, and perhaps the … [Read more...] about Seattle Hempfest all things cannabis festival
Free guided low tide beach walks in summer
During summer, you can visit Puget Sound beaches during low tide and learn about the marine plants and animals. The volunteer Beach Naturalist program runs on low-tide days throughout the summer and on select winter evenings. Local residents who want to help protect our waterways train as Beach Naturalists to help you … [Read more...] about Free guided low tide beach walks in summer
