Must List: 5 Things to Do in Seattle This Week

Hey, how are you doing? It’s such a nice day for January — cold but bright, which feels like a win. I’ve been thinking about trying new things this year. I just signed up for a pretzel-making class at PCC (imagine the possibilities!) And this low-stakes dance studio is calling my name. What about you?

We’re also kicking off the new year at Seattle magazine with our Most Influential People. We’re super excited about this new issue — it’s packed with stories about the individuals shaping our city in meaningful ways. There’s Luther Hughes, whose poetry captures what it means to live in this complicated world, and Nick Ferderer, who turned a career in business strategy into a passion and created two of Seattle’s most exciting art spaces. Our publisher and editor weigh in too, with reflections on purpose, talent, and leadership. Grab yourself a copy now!

And if you’re doing Dry January, we’ve rounded up a bunch of spots serving and selling zero-proof cocktails that sound fun and delicious.

Here’s what else is happening this week:

The Room Next Door

Opening today
SIFF Cinema Uptown
$14.50+

Pedro Almodóvar’s films are magic — All About My Mother, Talk to Her, Volver. Gorgeous, complicated stories about the lives of women. His latest, The Room Next Door, is no exception. Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton star in this Golden Globe-nominated film about friendship, loss, and finding your way back. I can’t wait to see it.

On 01-09-2025, a large crowd of people, many wearing hats and holding flags, gathered closely together, creating a must-list event for those in attendance.

WITNESS: Nate Gowdy’s Lens on January 6, 2021

Now-Feb. 15
Spectrum Fine Art
Free

On assignment for Rolling Stone, Seattle-based photographer Nate Gowdy captured stark, unflinching images of the Capitol insurrection. Twice called “fake news” while documenting the chaos, Gowdy’s photos show the raw emotions of that day. Looking at them makes me feel both afraid and sad. With the inauguration around the corner, the fragility of democracy feels top of mind. Gowdy will be at the artist reception from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. on Jan. 16.

Radiant Reflections: Celebrating the Beauty of the African Diaspora

Jan 10-Feb. 22
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
Free

Curated by Fancy Vargas, this free exhibit at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art looks stunning. Tacoma’s Monae Brown explores art as healing, Charles Conner channels his journey with PTSD into beautiful pieces, and Charde Brown’s portraits of Black children are meant to uplift and inspire. James Wilson’s work digs into race, gender, and identity with striking compositions. Meet these incredible artists and hear their perspectives at a special panel on Jan. 18.

National Geographic Live: Diving the Great Barrier Reef

Jan. 12-14
Benaroya Hall
$27+

Marine biologist Dr. Erika Woolsey brings the Great Barrier Reef to life right here in Seattle. These National Geographic Live shows never disappoint, and this one feels especially moving. Climate change has taken its toll on the reef, but Woolsey will highlight the bizarre, colorful creatures still thriving there and why the fight to protect the reef matters.

Ben Barnes: Where the Light Gets In

Wednesday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m.
The Showbox
$35+

Ben Barnes — yes, Prince Caspian himself — is bringing his velvety vocals to Seattle. The London-based actor (Shadow and Bone, The Chronicles of Narnia) is also a singer-songwriter. His new album, Where the Light Gets In, drops tomorrow, and the buzz around this concert is big.

Visit our events calendar for more ideas.