Three Cultural Festivals for May in Seattle

Image from Syttende Mai website, artwork by Maya Jackson

By the time May rolls around in Seattle we’re ready to shake the lingering winter blues and find things to do that remind us summer is near, no matter how much rain the spring season brought us. Festivals start popping up all over the Puget Sound region and it’s nearly impossible to find a weekend that doesn’t have something fun going on.

If exploring cultures – your own or others – interests you, three festivals are happening in Seattle in May that highlight and celebrate history, people, and traditions. Each culture has a long history and strong ties to the Pacific Northwest. The following are presented in date order and all are free to attend.

Cinco de Mayo - Saturday, May 7th

El Centro de la Raza on Beacon Hill is hosting a Celebrate Our Culture festival in honor of Cinco de Mayo from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm in the Plaza Roberto Maestas, located just across the street from the light rail station. Food carts, dancing, music, and offerings from local artisans are some of the highlights.

Children’s Day Festival - Saturday, May 14th

Known as Kodomo no Hi in Japanese, Children’s Day is a beloved national holiday in Japan, and the Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Washington (JCCCW) celebrates it with an annual family friendly event. The festival takes place from 11 am to 5 pm at 1414 S. Weller Street. You can also go online to the festival website and download free activity packs for the kids.

Syttende Mai - Tuesday, May 17th

Norwegian Constitution Day has been celebrated in Seattle since before Washington was a state, but the popular annual parade and celebration began in the Ballard neighborhood in 1974. There are a few different events during the day, including music at Bergen Place Park from 2 pm to 5 pm. The parade runs from 6 pm to 8 pm.