It’s been hot, hasn’t it? I’m scheming ways to hang out at Trader Joe’s just for the A/C. My kids haven’t left the inflatable pool, and it’s turned into the neighborhood hotspot.

Did you know Washington ranks No. 1 for beaches? Now’s the time to hang out at the nearest one. And for those hot, lazy days, nothing beats cool confections.

If you’re already planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026, listen to Ep.1 and Ep. 2 of our latest podcast with Peter Tomozawa, CEO of the Seattle World Cup organizing committee, to get the inside scoop on what hosting the games means for the entire region.

And make sure to check out our July/August issue. Our editor shares insights on marijuana’s evolving role in mental health, while our publisher discusses our shift in thinking about psychedelics as therapeutic treatment.

There’s no shortage of activities during summer in Seattle, especially if you’ve got visitors in town, so we’ve rounded up some events to keep you busy and having fun.

An Evening with Harry Connick Jr.

July 12-13

7:30 p.m., Chateau Ste. Michelle Amphitheatre, $89 

Kick back at Chateau Ste. Michelle with Harry Connick Jr. Sip wine, bring a picnic or grab a snack from a food stand, and enjoy a jazzy night under the stars with friends.

 

West Seattle Summer Fest

July 12-14

Fri., 1 p.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., West Seattle, Free

West Seattle Summer Fest turns the streets into a party. Sunshine, live bands, games for the kids, art booths, and a beer garden — what more could you want?

 

Ballard SeafoodFest

July 12-14

Fri., 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Sat., 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Ballard, Free

Ballard SeafoodFest is back. There will be great music, succulent seafood, and craft beer flowing. Stroll through artsy stalls and chow down on local eats. Grab your crew and go.

 

Star Wars: The Force Awakens 

July 12-14

2 p.m., 8 p.m., Benaroya Hall, $55+

Watch Star Wars: The Force Awakens on a giant screen while the Seattle Symphony plays John Williams’ iconic score. With the  acoustics of Benaroya Hall, you’ll feel like you’re right there with Rey and Finn. 

Hot Off the Press Book Fair

Saturday, July 13

5 p.m.,  Fantagraphics Bookstore and Gallery, Free

Browse the latest self-published and small press works, including zines, comics, and more, by more than 50 indie artists and publishers at the 11th Hot Off the Press Book Fair. Meet some of the creators, score unique books, and catch some live music in Georgetown.

 

Gary Janetti

Saturday, July 13

7 p.m., Elliott Bay Book Co., Free

Catch New York Times bestselling author, TV writer, and producer Gary Janetti as he talks about his newest book, We Are Experiencing a Slight Delay.

 

Visit our events calendar for more ideas.