Summer in the Pacific Northwest is far from over, and neither is Seafair! If you missed the Fourth of July festivities, there’s still plenty to experience throughout July and early August. From Navy ship tours and the iconic Torchlight Parade to the Blue Angels and hydroplane races, Seafair offers weeks of exciting events for families, friends, and visitors alike.
Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or looking for a fun day trip, here’s your guide to the biggest Seafair events still to come.
Seafair Triathlon
Sunday, July 19
Kick off your Seafair adventures by cheering on athletes as they swim, bike, and run through scenic Seattle. Whether you’re competing or spectating, the Seafair Triathlon is an exciting way to celebrate the city’s active outdoor lifestyle.
Seattle Fleet Week & Boeing Maritime Celebration
July 21-24, 2026
Fleet Week is one of Seattle’s most unique summer traditions. Watch the Parade of Ships arrive in Elliott Bay, tour active-duty U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels, meet service members, and enjoy free waterfront exhibits and demonstrations.
Kaiser Permanente Seafair Torchlight Run
Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Lace up your running shoes or cheer from the sidelines during Seattle’s popular Torchlight Run. The festive atmosphere and waterfront route make it a fun event for participants of all ages.
Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade
Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 7:30 PM
After the run, stick around for one of Seattle’s most beloved traditions. The Torchlight Parade features colorful floats, marching bands, community organizations, cultural performances, and the famous Seafair Pirates.
Boeing Seafair Air Show
Friday, July 31 – Sunday, August 2, 2026
The skies above Lake Washington come alive as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels return to Seattle. Along with breathtaking precision flying, you’ll also see military aircraft, civilian aerobatic performers, and search-and-rescue demonstrations.
Pro Tip: The Blue Angels also hold practice flights on Thursday, July 30, which often attract smaller crowds.
Apollo Mechanical Cup Hydroplane Races
Friday, July 31 – Sunday, August 2, 2026
Feel the excitement as H1 Unlimited hydroplanes race across Lake Washington at speeds exceeding 200 mph. It’s one of Seattle’s longest-running summer traditions and a must-see event for racing fans.
Seafair Weekend Festival
Friday, July 31 – Sunday, August 2, 2026
Held at Genesee Park, the Seafair Weekend Festival combines the Blue Angels and hydroplane races with live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, sponsor exhibits, the Dick’s Drive-In Classic Car Show, and premium viewing experiences.
Bonus: General admission is free on Friday, July 31, making it a great day for first-time visitors.
More Seafair Community Events
Seafair is more than its signature events. Throughout the summer, neighborhoods across the Puget Sound celebrate with festivals, parades, cultural events, and family activities. Be sure to check out these official Seafair-affiliated events as their 2026 schedules continue to roll out:
Ballard SeafoodFest | July 10 – 12 – Fresh seafood, live music, and family fun.
West Seattle Summer Fest | July 10 – 12 – Shopping, dining, entertainment, and local vendors.
Kent Cornucopia Days | July 10 – 12 – Carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Wallingford Kiddie Parade & Street Fair | July 11 – A favorite for families with young children.
Alki Art Fair | July 17 – 19 – Celebrate local artists along the waterfront.
Seattle Chinatown Seafair Parade | July 19 – Dragon dances and vibrant cultural performances.
Seattle Bon Odori Festival | July 18 – 19– Traditional Japanese dancing, music, and cuisine.
West Seattle Grand Parade | July 18 – Floats, marching bands, and local organizations.
Des Moines Waterland Festival | July 18 – A waterfront celebration featuring a parade and family entertainment.
Covington Days | July 18 – 19 – A hometown festival with a parade and family activities.
Pista sa Nayon | July 26 – Experience Filipino culture through performances and authentic cuisine.
Magnolia Summerfest | July 31 – Aug 2 – Live music, food, and community fun.
Umoja Fest | Aug 1 – 2 – A celebration of African American culture through music, art, and food.
Lake City Summer Festival & Parade | Aug 1 – Community parade, live music, and local vendors.
Visit the official Seafair calendar for the latest dates, times, and event information as they become available.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Arrive early for popular events, especially Fleet Week and Seafair Weekend.
- Consider using public transportation or rideshare to avoid heavy traffic and limited parking.
- Pack sunscreen, water, comfortable walking shoes, and a portable phone charger.
- Bring folding chairs or a picnic blanket if you’re planning to watch the Blue Angels or hydroplane races from a park.
Make the Most of the Rest of Summer
With so many events still ahead, there’s no better time to experience one of Seattle’s favorite summer traditions. Whether you’re watching the Blue Angels soar overhead, touring a Navy ship, cheering on hydroplanes, or exploring a neighborhood festival, Seafair offers something for everyone.
Before heading out, check the official Seafair calendar for the latest schedules, parking information, and event updates. Gather your family and friends, enjoy everything our region has to offer, and make the most of the rest of your summer.
Official Seafair Website: https://www.seafair.org
