May is one of the most active months in the Seattle area, packed with major events, outdoor experiences, and community gatherings. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or looking ahead to Memorial Day, here are some of the top events happening across Greater Seattle in May 2026.
Museum Day FREE – May 7 Participating museums across the Seattle area offer free admission for Museum Day, making it a great opportunity to explore local favorites at no cost.
Pike Place Market Flower Festival – May 9–10 A classic Seattle experience—local farmers line the market with fresh bouquets and live music fills the space.
Mother’s Day Cruises (Lake Union) – May 9–10 | 11 AM (brunch) & 5 PM (dinner) Celebrate with a scenic boat cruise and meal on the water.
Mother’s Day Improv Show – May 10 A fun, adults-friendly night out featuring improvised comedy focused on parenting and family life.
Mother’s Day Pop-Up Market + Mimosa Bar (Ten Trails) Local vendors, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) – May 7–17 One of the largest film festivals in North America, featuring 100+ films, premieres, and screenings across Seattle.
U-District StreetFair – May 16–17 One of Seattle’s longest-running street festivals, featuring local vendors, food, art, and live entertainment.
Beat the Bridge – May 17 One of Seattle’s most iconic annual events, this fun run/walk challenges participants to cross the University Bridge before it rises.
Marymoor Park Concert Series – Season kicks off May 2026 Outdoor concert season begins at one of the region’s best venues, with live music and picnic-style lawn seating.
Northwest Folklife Festival – May 22–25 Seattle’s biggest Memorial Day weekend event, featuring hundreds of performances, cultural showcases, and food vendors at Seattle Center.
Hands On Children’s Museum – Memorial Day Activities – May 24–27 Special holiday programming and activities designed for younger kids and families.
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park – Final Season – Opening Memorial Day Weekend 2026 Wild Waves kicks off its season—and 2026 marks its final year, making it a must-visit for families and longtime locals.
Washington State Parks Free Day – May 25 Memorial Day is a Washington State Parks free day, so no Discover Pass is required—making it an easy excuse to get outside and explore.
Seattle Center Festál Events – Throughout May A series of free cultural festivals celebrating global communities with music, food, and performances.
Seattle Metro Reptile Expo (Monroe) – May (Dates Vary) A unique, family-friendly event featuring reptiles, amphibians, and hands-on educational exhibits.
Wine Run / Fun Run Events (Various Wineries) – May (Dates Vary) Enjoy a casual run or walk followed by wine tastings—combining fitness with scenic vineyard views.
Winery Concerts & Live Music Nights (Woodinville & Surrounding Areas) – May (Dates Vary) Many local wineries kick off their outdoor concert season in May, offering live music, wine tastings, and relaxed evening vibes.
With so much happening across the Seattle area, May is the perfect time to get out, explore, and enjoy everything the season has to offer—especially when you’re living close to it all with Conner Homes.
