Can you believe May is almost here? Before you know it the days will be bright, full of light, and maybe even warm! If you’re trying to stay conscious of spending this month, there’s still plenty of fun to be had around the city. From festivals to street fairs, here are 12 of the best free & cheap things to do in Seattle this May.
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Mariners Value Games
There are several Seattle Mariners Value Games you can catch in May. Tickets for these games start at $10! Don’t forget to try some of the new foods this season.
When: May 1st, 13th, 14th, 15th, 28th, 29th, 30th
Where: T Mobile Park
Cost: $10+
Free 1st Thursday Public Tour
The Washington Park Arboretum hosts free public tours on the first Thursday of each month. So kick off your May walking through seasonal themes, collections plants, and learn about the history of the organization.
When: Thursday, May 2nd, 2024
Where: The Graham Visitors Center, 2300 Arboretum Drive East
Cost: Free
The 38th annual Windermere Cup
Check out nearly 800 athletes competing in this prestigious event, featuring local, national, and international competitors. You can watch the races for free, the viewing areas are along the north and south shores of the Montlake Cut, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may also watch from the Montlake Bridge, according to organizers.
When: Saturday, May 4th, 2024
Where: North and south shores of the Montlake Cut
Cost: Free
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival
The Washington State Apple Blossom Festival runs from April 25th through May 5th, and historically has celebrated Wenatchee’s legacy as one of the nation’s premier apple-growing regions. One of the main draws about the festival is the fact that it actually has the seventh largest carnival in the nation!
When: On now until May 5th
Where: Wenatchee
Cost: Varies
FOC May Plant Sale
Looking for new plants this season? The Friends of the Conservatory is hosting its annual May Plant Sale at Volunteer Park Conservatory over the first weekend in May.
When: Saturday, May 4th, and Sunday, May 5th, 2024
Where: 1400 East Galer Street
Cost: $6, or free on the first Saturday of the month
Volunteer Park Conservatory
Speaking of The Volunteer Park Conservatory! This awesome space is open year-round and is full of beautiful tropical plants. It’s a great place to stroll with a date and enjoy a little peace and quiet in one of Seattle’s best parks.
Besides its usual $6 entrance, there are free days at the Park and they are on the 1st Thursdays and 1st Saturdays of each month.
When: Throughout May, free days on May 2nd and 4th
Where: 1400 East Galer Street
Cost: $6
Spirit of Africa
As part of the Seattle Center Festál series, Spirit of Africa will take place on May 11th at the Armory Food & Event Hall. This year, you can expect live performances, tech showcases, cultural workshops, along with interactive exhibits.
When: Saturday, May 11th, 2024
Where: Seattle Center Armory
Cost: Free
Art Battle Seattle
At Art Battle, you can watch talented artists battle it out in three rounds of 20-minute masterpieces, all created with open materials. Pieces get auctioned off, and one winner gets crowned at the end of the night.
When: Saturday, May 11th, 2024
Where: Leif Erikson Hall, 2245 Northwest 57th Street, Seattle
Cost: $15+
Edmonds Spring Fest
The Edmonds Spring Fest features vendors, food trucks, and is a perfect spot for Mother’s Day shopping. The best part is you get to support creative small businesses!
When: Saturday, May 11th, 2024
Where: Frances Anderson Center, 700 Main St, Edmonds
Cost: Free to attend
16th Annual Flower Festival
If you love flowers, this annual festival is one you won’t want to miss this spring. The 16th Annual Flower Festival is returning to Pike Place Market in May.
Each year, the annual Flower Festival takes place over Mother’s Day weekend, and features the beauty and diversity of flowers in the Pacific Northwest.
When: Saturday, May 11th & Sunday, May 12th, 2024
Where: Pike Place Market, 85 Pike Street
Cost: Free to attend
BonsaiFEST!
Bonsai-fans and bonsai-curious, listen up! The Pacific Bonsai Museum’s fifth BonsaiFEST! is happening this May. Check out hundreds of beautiful bonsai in an enchanting, woodsy setting. Taking place during Mother’s Day weekend, there will be pop-up shopping, kids activities, food trucks, and more!
When: Saturday, May 11th & Sunday, May 12th, 2024
Where: Pacific Bonsai Museum, 2515 S 336th Street, Federal Way
Cost: Admission is free, with a $12 suggested donation
U District Street Fair
The U District Street Fair returns for its 53rd year, and it’s a celebration of local art, music, and culture that brings together artists, performers, and vendors from all over the region.
The Fair takes place over two days on University Way aka “The Ave.” The fair takes over 10 blocks-with arts and crafts, live music, and over 40 food trucks and booths.
When: Saturday, May 18th and Sunday, May 19th, 2024
Where: University Way
Cost: Free
Have a great month, and enjoy all of the free & cheap things to do in Seattle!
