May in Seattle is a celebration of sunshine, spring energy, and a variety of events throughout the city. Whether you're enjoying craft beer during Seattle Beer Week, exploring international films at the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF), or dancing at the Northwest Folklife Festival, this month is all about community, culture, and good times. From rooftop parties and art exhibits to Taco Tuesdays and trivia nights, there’s something on the calendar for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide for what to do in Seattle this May!
1. Free Museum Day
- When & Where: May 1, Various Locations
- What to Expect: Explore Seattle’s top museums for free, including MOHAI, the Burke Museum, and more—perfect for a cultural start to the month.
2. Seattle Seawolves vs. RFC LA
- When & Where: May 2, Starfire Sports, Tukwila
- More Info: Seawolves Rugby
- What to Expect: Catch Seattle’s professional rugby team in action with fast-paced, high-energy gameplay.
3. Opening Day on Lake Washington
- When & Where: May 3, Lake Washington
- What to Expect: Celebrate the start of boating season with a parade of boats, rowing races, and festivities on the water.
4. Children’s Day (Kodomo no Hi)
- When & Where: May 4, Japanese Cultural & Community Center of WA
- More Info: Children's Day
- What to Expect: A fun, family-friendly celebration of Japanese culture featuring games, performances, and traditional crafts.
5. Cinco De Mayo
- When & Where: May 5, Various Locations
- What to Expect: Enjoy music, food, and cultural celebrations honoring Mexican heritage at events across the city.
6. Six the Musical
- When & Where: May 6-11, The Paramount Theatre
- More Info: Six the Musical
- What to Expect: The six wives of Henry VIII take the stage in this empowering and energetic musical smash hit.
7. Best of 425 Party
- When & Where: May 8, Downtown Bellevue
- More Info: Best of 425
- What to Expect: Celebrate the Eastside’s best businesses, restaurants, and people at this festive party hosted by 425 Magazine.
8. Silver Lining Trapeze Show
- When & Where: May 9, Emerald City Trapeze Arts
- More Info: Silver Lining Show
- What to Expect: An awe-inspiring aerial performance featuring local circus artists, high-flying stunts, and stunning visuals.
9. Beacon Arts Street Fair
- When & Where: May 10, Beacon Hill
- More Info: Beacon Arts
- What to Expect: A vibrant community fair showcasing local artists, food vendors, and live music in the heart of Beacon Hill.
10. Mother’s Day Events
- When & Where: May 11, Various Locations
- What to Expect: Treat Mom to brunch, a spa day, or a scenic garden walk at one of the many special events across the city.
11. Seattle Beer Week
- When & Where: May 9-17, Various Locations
- More Info: Seattle Beer Week
- What to Expect: A citywide celebration of craft beer with tastings, pairings, and brewery events throughout the week.
12. Seattle Mariners vs. NY Yankees
- When & Where: May 13-15, T-Mobile Park
- More Info: Mariners Schedule
- What to Expect: Cheer on the Mariners as they face off against one of baseball’s most iconic teams.
13. Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form
- When & Where: Ongoing through Jan 4, MoPOP
- More Info: Asian Comics Exhibit
- What to Expect: A dynamic exhibition exploring the world of Asian comics, manga, and graphic storytelling.
14. Toytopia: The History of Toys
- When & Where: Ongoing, Washington State History Museum
- More Info: Toytopia
- What to Expect: A nostalgic and interactive exhibit featuring toys from the past 100 years.
15. Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)
- When & Where: May 15-25, Various Locations
- More Info: SIFF
- What to Expect: Experience world-class cinema from around the globe at one of the country’s largest film festivals.
16. Viking Fest
- When & Where: May 16-18, Poulsbo
- More Info: Viking Fest
- What to Expect: Embrace Nordic heritage with a parade, traditional foods, and family fun in the scenic town of Poulsbo.
17. Jet City Roller Derby
- When & Where: May 17, Everett
- More Info: Jet City Roller Derby
- What to Expect: Watch fierce and fast-paced roller derby action in this all-ages sporting event.
18. Classic Workboat & Maritime Show
- When & Where: May 17-18, Lake Union Park
- More Info: Maritime Show
- What to Expect: Step aboard historic workboats, meet boatbuilders, and enjoy maritime exhibits on the water.
19. Scarecrow Movie Trivia Night
- When & Where: May 19, Chuck’s Hop Shop – Central District
- More Info: Scarecrow Trivia
- What to Expect: Test your film knowledge with themed trivia and craft beer in a laid-back setting.
20. The Light & Shade That Made My Name Exhibit
- When & Where: Through June 20, Lynnwood Event Center
- More Info: Light & Shade Exhibit
- What to Expect: A photography exhibit celebrating BIPOC women behind the camera.
21. Ignite Seattle
- When & Where: May 22, Town Hall Seattle
- More Info: Ignite Seattle
- What to Expect: Short, powerful talks by local speakers sharing ideas and stories that spark inspiration.
22. Northwest Folklife Festival
- When & Where: May 23-26, Seattle Center
- More Info: Folklife
- What to Expect: Celebrate cultures through music, dance, food, and community at this iconic Memorial Day weekend festival.
23. Parke Diem Music Festival
- When & Where: May 31, Volunteer Park
- More Info: Parke Diem
- What to Expect: A one-day outdoor music festival featuring local bands, food trucks, and family-friendly vibes.
24. Taco Tuesday at Mexican Seoul
- When & Where: Tuesdays, South Lake Union
- More Info: Mexican Seoul
- What to Expect: Tacos with a Korean twist—bold, flavorful, and perfectly paired with a margarita.
25. Kitchen Sink Comedy Open Mic Night
- When & Where: Weekly, Rendezvous, Belltown
- More Info: Kitchen Sink Comedy
- What to Expect: New comedians and seasoned pros take the mic in this cozy, unfiltered comedy night.
26. Open Late Thursdays at Frye Art Museum
- When & Where: Every Thursday, Frye Art Museum
- More Info: Late Thursdays
- What to Expect: Enjoy contemporary art and rotating exhibitions during extended evening hours, often with live music or talks.
As Seattle blossoms into late spring, the city is alive with creativity, celebration, and connection. From cultural festivals and boat parades to musicals, film screenings, and culinary delights, May is the perfect time to get out and experience what makes this city so unique. Considering making Seattle your home? Contact me, and let’s talk about finding your place in this amazing community.
