Must List
Must List: Six Fun Things to Do in Seattle This Week
Street fair season and movie hopping
By Sarah Stackhouse May 15, 2025
Hey Seattle, can you feel summer in the air? It’s still chilly, but that might actually be the sun showing up.
Our new issue is all about Trailblazing Women and we’re kicking it off with Melinda French Gates.
Hungry? Head up north to The Local 104. The ricotta fritters are incredible. There’s still time to catch Camano Island’s Studio Tour, and if you’re into live, jazzy music, the Jazz Connection festival is happening in Edmonds with performances by the region’s best young musicians. This is a good way to support music in public schools.
Here’s what to do this week:
Seattle International Film Festival
May 15-25
Several theaters across Seattle
$19+
SIFF is back. If the schedule feels overwhelming (and it probably will), start with the Programmers’ Picks. These are the SIFF team’s lists of what to see and a good place to begin. Scroll through, see what grabs you, and start mapping out your week.
House of Joy
May 16-June 8
Seattle Public Theater
$10+
Set in a 17th-century imperial harem, this play explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and empowerment. With an all-female guard and a new recruit challenging the status quo, the tension builds fast.
Norwegian Constitution Day Parade
Saturday, May 17, 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
Begins at Northwest 62nd Street and 24th Avenue Northwest, Ballard
Free
It’s Norwegian Constitution Day, and Ballard goes big — think marching bands, drill teams, flags, and the biggest May 17 parade outside of Norway. A full-on tribute to the city’s Scandinavian roots, and a good excuse to eat a waffle.
Neal Francis
Saturday, May 17, 8 p.m.
Neumos
$40.47
Chicago’s Neal Francis brings his retro soul-rock to Capitol Hill. He’s always shifting sounds and pushing genres, a true artist. His latest album was tracked entirely on analog. Start with “Broken Glass” or “Need You Again,” then go sweat it out live.
Classic Workboat & Maritime Show
May 17-18, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Historic Ships Wharf at Lake Union Park
Free
Step aboard historic tugboats, fishing vessels, and fireboats. Meet the crews, explore the decks, and enjoy engine demonstrations. It’s a hands-on history lesson with a waterfront view.
The U-District Street Fair
May 17-18, 11 a.m.
University Way
Free
Seattle’s longest-running street fair returns for its 54th year, transforming The Ave into a 15-block festival of art, food, and music. With more than 50 food trucks and booths along with live performances, it’s the perfect kickoff to warmer weather.
Visit our events calendar for more ideas.
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