The seventh annual Rainier Valley Summer Streets is this Saturday, August 16, 1:30 to 5:30 PM along Rainier Ave S from S Alaska to S Brandon streets in Columbia City.
Summer Streets turns a space that’s normally used by cars into a place for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy. It’s about opening up the city’s largest public space– our streets – for people to walk, bike, and play in. And it’s pretty amazing to see and experience all the creativity, neighborhood pride, and smiles that follow.
This little guy had a great time rocking out last year.
There’s a lot to look forward to on Saturday. The Rainier Valley Heritage Parade takes place from Noon to 1:30 PM. Plus, this year, the Seattle Police Foundation will be hosting their South Precinct Picnic as a part of Summer Streets, right on Rainier Avenue, between S Dawson and S Brandon streets! Mayor Murray will be marching in the parade and plans to make remarks at the picnic around 2 PM (alongside Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole) and at the Summer Streets Edmunds St. Stage around 2:30 PM.
But wait, there’s more! Saturday’s events are part of an even bigger Rainier Valley Culture Fest Weekend. So be sure to check out the Othello Park International Festival on Sunday.
Check out the event activity map for a full list of Summer Streets participating businesses and organizations. Here’s a taste of the many free and family-friendly activities you’ll find:
- Try out a pop-up (temporary) protected bike lane and check out a parklet
- Ride over to B!kecitement Street in front of Bike Works
- Get a refresher on the rules of the road and enter to win a $200 transit pass
- BBQ cooking and pie eating contests
- Art in the alley and live music
- Balloon artists and a bouncy house
- And much, much more!
Rainier Valley Summer Streets wouldn’t be possible without the support and partnership of the Rainier Valley Chamber of Commerce, Columbia City Business Association, Seattle Public Utilities, Seattle Police Department, and the broader Rainier Valley community. Thank you, partners!