Hello, Seattle families! August is a fantastic time to explore the city and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As a family photographer, I’m always on the lookout for great locations and events that offer the perfect backdrop for capturing those special moments. Here’s a list of family-friendly activities and events in and around Seattle this August. Don’t forget to bring your camera or schedule a session with me to capture your summer fun!

1. Seattle Center Movies at the Mural

• Date: Every Saturday in August
• Location: Seattle Center Mural Amphitheatre
• Details: Enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars. Bring a blanket, snacks, and settle in for a family-friendly flick. This year’s lineup includes classic family movies and recent favorites.
• Link: Seattle Center Movies at the Mural

2. Free Entrance to National Parks – August 4

• Date: August 4, 2024
• Location: National Parks in WA
• Details: n honor of the Great American Outdoors Act, the entrance fee is waived annually on August 4th. It’s the perfect time to escape the city and immerse yourself in one of the state’s three beautiful national parks.
• Link: Free Entrance to National Parks

3.  Magnolia Summerfest

• Date: August 2-4, 2024
• Location: Downtown Magnolia
• Details: A 3-day festival that focuses on volunteerism, fun family activities and giving back to local needs.
• Link: Magnolia Summerfest

4. Seafair Weekend Festival

• Date: August 2-4, 2024
• Location: Genesee Park and Lake Washington
• Details: Seattle’s iconic summer celebration features hydroplane races, an airshow with the Blue Angels, and a host of family-friendly activities along the shores of Lake Washington.
• Link: Seafair Weekend Festival

5. Summer Concerts at the Locks

• Date: Every Sunday in August
• Location: Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (Ballard Locks)
• Details: Enjoy live music performances in a beautiful garden setting. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon with a picnic.
• Link: Summer Concerts at the Locks

6. Outdoor Adventures at Discovery Park

• Date: All August long
• Location: Discovery Park
• Details: Explore Seattle’s largest green space with miles of trails, beaches, and stunning views. Great for hiking, picnicking, and it just so happens to be my favorite spot for family photography sessions!
• Link: Discovery Park

7. Onion Festival at Pike Place Market

• Date: August 14, 2024
• Location: Pike Place Market
• Details: Step into a unique experience as Pike Place Market extends its vibrant atmosphere into the early evening hours with its brand new special Monthly Farmers Market event series! Music, art, and kids activities!
• Link: Pike Place Market Monthly Produce Series

8. Fleet Week

• Date: July 30 – August 4, 2024
• Location: Seattle Waterfront & Pier 46
• Details: The celebration starts with the Parade of Ships through Elliot Bay, followed by a week of events where the public is invited to meet the sailors and guardsmen, enjoy free music, and take ship tours.
• Link: Fleet Week

9.  Bothell Family & Youth Summer Entertainment

• Date: August 2024
• Location: Various Bothell Parks
• Details: Just a short drive from Seattle, the City of Bothell is putting on various kids concerts and theater shows – fun for the whole family!
• Link: Bothell Family & Youth Summer Entertainment

10. Taste Edmonds

• Date: August 7-9, 2024
• Location: Civic Center Playfield
• Details: Celebrate the community of Edmonds with music, makers, food, and fun for everyone!
• Link: Taste Edmonds

I don’t know about you, but this summer has FLOWN by. Make the most of this gorgeous last month of summer with one of these outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Seattle has something for every family this August.

Happy summering!

 

emily