Living in Seattle means having access to countless fairs, festivals, and other live events throughout the year, and now is a prime time to take advantage of it. Spring in our city brings color, warmth, and endless entertainment. This April, get out and experience the variety that Seattle has to offer with these four very exciting (and very different) events:
World Rhythm Festival
When: Friday, April 8, 2016 through Sunday, April 10, 2016
Where: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
The 2016 World Rhythm Festival is the 23rd annual production of this event. The weekend includes workshops, live music and dance performances, drum demonstrations, and more. It is an immersive experience, featuring elements from African, Middle-Eastern, Latin, Indian, Brazilian, and North American music traditions. This festival is entirely driven by volunteers and community support, so you can enjoy it all free of charge. Visit the Seattle World Percussion Society to view the event schedule or to make a donation to support the festival.
Seattle International Children’s Friendship Festival
When: Saturday, April 16, 2016 through Sunday, April 17, 2016 (11am until 5pm on both days)
Where: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
The Seattle International Children’s Friendship Festival is an opportunity for kids to experience live performances and other exhibitions produced by the various cultural groups found in and around Seattle. This is an event that is made for kids, by kids, and it even includes an open forum for children who wish to share their thoughts on the concept of well-being. It is a free event, and it is entering its 6th year of production. To learn more, visit the International Children’s Friendship Festival website, or contact the Turkish American Cultural Association of Washington.
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
When: Friday, April 22, 2016 through Sunday, April 24, 2016
Where: Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Forty years ago, Japanese Prime Minister Takeo Miki gifted 1,000 cherry trees to the city of Seattle in commemoration of the nation’s centennial anniversary. The Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival was founded as a way celebrating that momentous occasion, and the tradition lives on today. The festival includes live performances, visual arts, interactive activities, authentic cuisine, and more. Over the course of three days, festivalgoers will have the opportunity to explore Japanese culture through the years and how it has evolved to become what it is today. Visit the event website to learn more.
Camlann Medieval Village: A Festival for May
When: Saturday, April 30, 2016 through Sunday, May 1, 2016
Where: 10320 Kelly Road NE, Carnation WA 98014
A Festival for May is an annual celebration of spring involving music, dancing (around a Maypole, of course), and feasting. Crafters will be offering live demonstrations of garland weaving, wool dyeing, blacksmithing, shoemaking, pottery, hearth cooking, and candle making. The event website states that medieval attire is encouraged, but not required. Clothing and other traditional accessories will be available for rent at the Camlann Clothier Shoppe, and the price of admission varies according to age. Learn more at the Camlann Medieval Village website or by calling (425) 788-8624.
These four events are just a taste of what you can find in and around our city this month. Check out the Seattle events calendar for more.
