Gray whales, farmers markets, and cherry blossoms. The perfect recipe for a little springtime R&R! What if we told you all three can be found right here in your own backyard? It’s true! From creative craft cocktails to kaleidoscopic tulips to legendary Canadian pop stars, Seattle has got it going on this month. Go ahead and jot these down and enjoy 11 things to do in Seattle this April!
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1. Gray Whale Watching Tour from Seattle – April 1-30
Each March and April, the migrating gray whales make their way through the Salish Sea along their lengthy journey up to Alaska. Seize the rare opportunity to share the Puget Sound with these 35-ton visitors on a Seattle gray whale watching tour right out of Pier 69! Gain valuable insights into these magnificent creatures from expert onboard naturalists as you search for wildlife and soak in breathtaking coastal views along the way.
2. Seattle Sports – April 1-30
Whether you’re an avid baseball fan, die-hard soccer enthusiast, or just looking to revel in the Seattle sports culture for a day, join in on the electric energy at a variety of games in the Emerald City! Cheer on our Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park, or head over to Lumen Field to kick-off the season with the Seattle Sounders.
3. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – April 1-May 10
There’s no better place to experience spring in the Northwest than between endless rows of vibrant tulips at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Located 60 miles from Seattle, take I-5 North (or follow your nose) to the sweet, floral fields scattered across this lush agricultural basin.
4. Carnival of Cocktails – April 1
Prepare to have your thirst quenched and your mind blown at this immersive cocktail experience. The Carnival of Cocktails is 2023 year’s drinks destination where cocktail bars, tastings, education, experiences, elixirs and more combine. Want to learn what makes the best “Kentucky Hug,” or what spirit can be used to make artificial diamonds? This is your chance to taste, learn, and enjoy! With more than 100 brands represented, the Carnival of Cocktails is a spirit spectacle not to be missed.
5. Spring Fair – April 13-16 & 20-23
Nothing says warm weather is on its way quite like the Spring Fair! Head to the Puyallup Fairgrounds for everything from a petting zoo to cultural performances to chainsaw carving and, yes, even fried butter, the Spring Fair is Seattle’s early embrace of the warmer weather knocking at our door!
6. Visit the Center for Wooden Boats
Perched on the edge of the stunning South Lake Union waterfront, this experiential maritime museum is a long-standing local favorite. The Center for Wooden Boats offers a place where boat-lovers can come together through a shared passion for wooden boats, aquatic skills, history or simply their love of the water. Mark your calendar for Free Boating Day on April 8th, bring along the little ones for Wooden Boat Story Time on the 13th and 27th, or help support this community organization at their auction fundraiser on April 15th.
7. Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival – April 14-16
The very first ethnic festival to be hosted at Seattle Center annually, the Japanese Cultural Festival highlights the cultural roots and contemporary influences of Japan through live performance, food and hands-on activities. Sit down among the blossoming cherry trees and try the art of Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, as well as origami and Go, the oldest board game in the world.
8. Spend Sunday at an Outdoor Market
Load up on some Northwest bounty in one of Seattle’s most charming neighborhoods with a Sunday spent at the Ballard Farmers Market. The city’s first year-round community farmers market, this weekly event offers local produce, fresh baked bread, vibrant seasonal flowers, live music and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Or head to Fremont Sunday Market where you’ll find dozens of food trucks, more than 100 curated vendor booths, vintage and antique shopping, plus local art and music. The quirky market is free to the public, pet-friendly, bike accessible, and happens rain or shine.
9. International Children’s Friendship Festival – April 22-23
Tour the world without leaving the city at the International Children’s Friendship Festival, focused on bringing Seattle’s varied ethnic cultures together through a display of music, ballet and folk dances. Learn about each community through the array of exhibits on display, as well as the 1st annual kids Arts Showcase.
10. Earth Day Events – April 22
Spend your Saturday outdoors! On Earth Day, Seattle offers up plenty of exciting open air opportunities like the Magnuson Park Earth Day Run and tree planting or grab the kiddos and head to the spacious REI flagship store for an appearance from children’s author and illustrator, Jonathan Case. Or if you want to really immerse yourself in nature for the occasion, head to a nearby State Park and enjoy the designated free day out in the wild.
11. Shania Twain at Climate Pledge Arena – April 29
Let’s go, girls! The Canadian country-pop icon heads south at the end of the month for a performance at the freshly remodeled Climate Pledge Arena. Treat yourself to a lively evening paired with the convenience of our FRS Clipper terminal and hotel partners in close proximity. Plus, with $1 of every ticket purchased going to Shania Kids Can (the singer’s foundation that provides services in children’s lives in times of crises and economic hardship), this is a night out you can feel good about.
Now that you have your springtime plans sorted (you’re welcome) why not get out and about in the city to see some sun! April is predicted to have plenty of golden rays to go around, so go ahead and take your time walking around the city, there’s plenty of gems to be uncovered down every alley.
