Welcome to September, Seattle! These are the last few days of summer, and the official transition into fall. That means, it’s time to get out there and see what’s happening around the city. Seattle has plenty to do this month between live music, performances, food & drink events. and festivals. Without further ado, here are 46 of the best things to do in and around Seattle this September.
Music
Oakland’s very own Kehlani is coming to the Washington State Fair to play a show. You’ll be able to hear her unique blend of contemporary R&B and hip-hop at one of the state’s most fun venues.
When: Saturday, September 2nd
Where: 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA
Cost: $117
One of contemporary country’s favorite artists Kane Brown is coming to perform at the Washington State Fair. Brown is known for his blend of modern sounds and heartfelt storytelling making for what is sure to be a great show.
When: Sunday, September 3rd
Where: 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA
Cost: $151
Contemporary music is cool and all but how about getting to see some of music’s most legendary artists live? The Temptations are coming to the Washington State Fair to play a show you probably won’t ever forget. It may be your one and only chance to hear songs like “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” played live
When: Monday, September 4th
Where: 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA
Cost: $58
Folk visionary Julie Byrne is coming to Seattle for an intimate show at Fremont Abbey. Listen to songs from her newest album “The Greater Wings” as well as older classics.
When: Tuesday, September 5th
Where: 4272 Fremont Avenue North
Cost: $25+
50 Cent needs no introduction but he is coming to Seattle to play what is sure to be an unforgettable show full of his classic hits. What’s more, he will be joined by Busta Rhymes and Jeremih.
When: Thursday, September 7th
Where: 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $45+
Modest Mouse AND Pixies? Yes, you read that correctly, the two iconic rock bands will be lighting up Climate Pledge Arena with their electric tunes. Hear all your favorite classic songs as well as some new ones!
When: Friday, September 8th
Where: 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $39.50
Rapper Playboi Carti is coming to Seattle to play what is sure to be a lively show. Hear hit tunes like “Magnolia” and “Die Lit” among other newer tracks.
When: Tuesday, September 12th
Where: 334 1st Ave N
Cost: $49.50+
Genre-blurring artist Cowgirl Clue is coming to Capitol Hill’s Barboza for what is likely to be one of the best concerts of the month. Now keep in mind resale tickets are available and while not as outrageously expensive as prices we’ve seen in other months, there are simply fewer of them. So if you want to go, purchase ASAP.
When: Wednesday, September 13th
Where: 925 E Pike St
Cost: $40+
Experimental pop band U.S. Girls is showing Seattle what they’re all about with a show at Capitol Hill’s Neumos. Listen to songs with themes of feminism and politics, all set against a backdrop of eclectic soundscapes.
When: Wednesday, September 13th
Where: 925 E Pike St
Cost: $39
Beyoncé definitely needs no introduction, the queen herself is coming to grace Seattle. Her show at Lumen Field is sure to be absolutely packed. That being said there are still a decent amount of resale tickets with semi-reasonable price tags.
When: Thursday, September 17th
Where: 800 Occidental Ave S
Cost: $147+
Arts & Culture
The third annual Waterfront Block Party promises to be even bigger than years past, with multiple spots along the shoreline featuring events- all the way from the Olympic Sculpture Park to Pier 62, to Occidental Park. You’ll find “live music, dance, parades, food trucks, family-friendly crafts, and more.” It’s one of the biggest and best free things to do in Seattle this month.
When: Friday, September 1st
Where: Olympic Sculpture Park to Pier 62
Cost: Free/Varies
This year, the fair runs from September 1st to 24th. and takes place at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup. During the almost month-long fair, you can find farm animals, agricultural displays, concerts, rides, and much more. While the rides and cute farm animals are the main draws for many, this year’s concert lineup has some big names that you’ll probably recognize like The Temptations, Kane Brown, Zac Brown Band, and Third Eye Blind with Built to Spill.
When: September 1st-24th
Where: 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup, WA
Cost: $12-$18
Attendees can expect to find vendors with all sorts of Italian wares to food, as well as beer and a wine garden. There will also be children’s activities like free face painting and a scavenger hunt. What’s more, guests of all ages can enjoy Italian music performed live each day.
When: Friday, September 8th-Sunday, September 10th
Where: South Angelo Street in Georgetown, Seattle, WA
Cost: Free/Varies
You’re invited to learn and experience traditional Mexican arts and culture through the waterfront public market. The market will highlight local artists and vendors from the region. There will also be live performers, plenty of opportunities to shop, and of course nosh on street-style Mexican food. And, you can also sip and enjoy tequila-inspired concoctions.
When: Saturday, September 9th
Where: 1951 Alaskan Wy
Cost: Free/Varies
Luminata will take place this year on Saturday, September 23rd, at Green Lake Park and will include lanterns crafted by the community. While this event is cool in itself, what makes it even more amazing is the fact that you can actually help create those lanterns.
When: Saturday, September 23rd
Where: Green Lake Park, 7201 East Green Lake Dr N
Cost: Free/Varies
On the first Thursday of each month, Seattleites can check out the Moth StorySLAM. Each month has a different story theme so you’ll experience something new and truly unique each time.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 4272 Fremont Ave N
Cost: $15
A digital map allows you to pick and choose where you stop on the Capitol Hill Art Walk. Stop by small galleries, local businesses, and more on this monthly art walk.
When: Second Thursday of every month
Where: Capitol Hill
Cost: Free
Free Public Tours of Washington Park Arboretum
The Arboretum is one of Seattle’s best spots for getting outdoors, especially in the summer. While you can walk it by yourself at any time, you can also enjoy free tours on the first Thursday of each month from 11:30 AM-1 PM.
When: First Thursday of every month
Where: 2300 Arboretum Drive E
Cost: Free
Silent Reading Party: In-Person
The beloved Silent Reading Party is back in person if you’d like to have the experience of reading amongst strangers inside the beautiful Hotel Sorrento. Keep in mind there is a $20 food and drink minimum on top of your ticket price.
When: First Wednesday of each month
Where: 900 Madison St
Cost: $8-$40
The Evergreen State Fair is a true classic fair experience. It’s not quite as big as the Washington State Fair but definitely worth attending if you love the end-of-summer carnival experiences. Expect rides, fair food, entertainment, and more!
When: August 24th-29th & August 31st-September 4th, 2023
Where: 14405 179th Avenue SE, Monroe, WA
Cost: $15 Admission
Food & Drink
Three Sacks Full Dinner Pop-Up
This local pop-up restaurant features a menu largely based on vegetables and grains. Every two weeks you can try an original menu with organic produce grown on the pop-up’s farm in the Snoqualmie Valley. Other ingredients not grown on the farm are always sourced from farms across Washington and Oregon.
When: Every two weeks
Where: Varies by pick-up date
Cost: Varies by dish
R-Day 2023 takes place on Saturday, September 16th, and is sure to be extra exuberant and eclectic. It’s a celebration of all things “wonderful and weird” and a great way to enjoy music and of course some frosty Mountain Fresh Rainier beer. Beyond the wild and wacky fun, there will also be some great musicians including PNW hard rock band Red Fang co-headlining with Cherry Glazerr. You can also hear from R&B beat master Parisalexa, and KEXP’s Larry Mizell Jr.
When: Saturday, September 16th
Where: Georgetown, WA
Cost: Free
U-Pick season is officially here! If you love local berries, why not pick them yourself? From blueberries to raspberries and even vegetables and apples, we have you covered with some of the best local spots to check out. There’s even a park in Tacoma where you can pick blueberries for free!
Try a few of summer’s newest restaurants
Seattle restauranteurs have been working hard this summer to bring you all sorts of new restaurants. From coffee shops to pizza, bagels, and more, we have compiled a list for you. Since that list Seattle also got a new spot for Hawaiian eats, and beloved restaurant Lady Jaye announced plans for a new bakery.
Festa is a celebration of Italians and Italian-Americans in the Pacific Northwest. You’ll experience arts, food, and culture that are uniquely Italian. Events happening include Italian cooking demonstrations, the Festa Grape Stomp, a Bocce Tournament, children’s activities, a historical photo collection, a contemporary art exhibition, and an Italian Classic Vehicle Show.
When: Saturday, September 23rd & Sunday, September 24th
Where: 305 Harrison Street
Cost: Free/Varies
Local natural wine shop and bar La Dive actually offers a monthly wine subscription! When you sign up you can choose between three different subscription options. The first option is two bottles a month for $42, then four for $84, or six for $120. Psst you can also check out Seattle’s newest and maybe tiniest bottle shop in Ballard if you’re looking for something else.
Comfort food is an easy choice when you’re hungry and looking for something to eat. It just so happens that Seattle has a ton of options scattered around the city with most of them being pretty affordable. From sweet to savory, we have some spots for you.
Taste of West Seattle is a great opportunity to partake in an evening of eats with the community. You’ll get to try samples from over 30 local eateries, including wineries, and even coffee shops. Best of all, benefits are dedicated to the West Seattle Food Bank, so you can help support them in their mission of preventing hunger and homelessness in the community.
When: Thursday, September 28th
Where: 9131 California Ave SW
Cost: $75-$125 per person
Saint Demetrios Greek Festival
If you’re looking for a truly authentic and even homey festival, Saint Demetrios Greek Festival is for you. You’ll be able to enjoy Greek food, music, dancing and culture. That includes homemade Greek delicacies from spanakopita to Souvlakia to baklava, all freshly prepared at the festival.
When: Friday, September 29th, 12 PM-9 PM, Saturday, September 30th, 10 AM-9 PM, Sunday, October 1st, 11 AM-6 PM
Where: 2100 Boyer Ave E
Cost: Free/Varies
19th Annual Great Pumpkin Beer Festival
The enchanting tradition of the Great Pumpkin Beer Festival returns this September and as always, every ounce of joy you experience will serve a noble cause – supporting The Vera Project! The heart of the Seattle Center will play host to this spectacular event, where over 80 varieties of pumpkin and seasonal beers, sourced both locally and globally, will cascade into your glass.
When: 4 PM-10 PM, Friday, September 29th & Saturday, September 30th
Where: 305 Harrison Street
Cost: One-Day Pass: $30+, Two-Day Pass: $50+, $5 for the designated driver
The U District $4 Food Walk takes place for one day only on Saturday, September 30th. You’ll be able to grab $4 bites at over 60 participating restaurants and businesses between 11 AM and 8 PM. Other than eats you can head to The Ave (University Way NE) for a variety of live entertainment and music all day long at the Main Stage. There will also be some “special evening performances.”
When: Saturday, September 30th
Where: University District
Cost: $4+
Outdoors & Adventure
Want to get out of the city for an unforgettable adventure? Try watching orca whales. Washington has several spots to watch some just outside of the city and some worth making a day or multi-day trip for.
Sure Washington may not seem like the likely place for sand dunes but it turns out that we do have a few. Whether you’re looking for an otherworldly oasis or a place to try out UTV’s, there’s a dune for you.
Love the idea of camping but don’t want to deal with all the nitty-gritty details? Glamping might just be for you. Think small cabins, some more rustic than others, or yurts and canvas tents.
Visit one of the nation’s largest public telescopes
If you’re into stargazing then get excited because one of the nation’s largest public telescopes is right here in Washington. Goldendale Observatory is worth the trip to the Columbia River Gorge, and it just so happens to be free to visit. Just make sure you make your reservations in advance.
Where: 1602 Observatory Drive, Goldendale, WA
Hours: April 1st-September 30th: Thursday-Sunday, Solar Show: 3 PM-5 PM, Evening Show: 9 PM-Midnight
See if you know all of Seattle’s secret beaches
We all know Seattle’s popular beaches like Alki and Golden Gardens. But it turns out there are a ton of secret beaches, 140 of them to be exact. What’s more there might be one closer to you than you think. We have of course detailed how you can find out this *highly* secretive information thanks to a handy map.
Try one of Washington’s best hikes
If you’ve ever wondered what the best hikes in Washington are, we have your answer. We took a look at AllTrails rankings and have compiled 10 of the state’s most popular hikes for you to enjoy. If you’re curious, we’ve also detailed Washington’s favorite hike – also from AllTrails users.
If you’re always looking at the water but never on it, renting kayaks is a little more accessible than you might think. Whether you want to be on Lake Union, Lake Washington, or even Puget Sound, there are multiple kayak rental options available to you around the city.
While summer may be coming to an end, waterfall hikes never disappoint. What’s a more memorable way to start fall than by hiking to and enjoying a local waterfall? Washington state has many, with several closer to the city than you might think.
Walking tours are cool and all but why not experience Seattle from a birds-eye view? Don’t worry, you don’t have to have a pilot’s license, instead, you can choose from one of several plane tours offered in and around the Seattle area.
You can look forward to free state park entrance on Saturday, September 23rd (National Public Lands Day). Keep in mind, despite free park entrance, you will have to pay for campsites.
Misc
The Fremont Market is truly a classic Seattle shopping experience and it happens year-round, rain or shine. It’s a great place to find antiques, vintage clothing, and much more.
When: Every Sunday
Where: Evanston Ave N & 34th St
You may or may not know but Seattle actually has 5 museums that you can always visit for free. We’ve listed them out and given you some details so you can take yourself on the perfect adventure. Psst, your library card can also get you access to tons of local museums for free. And several museums have free days every single month.
Check out Washington State Parks
You can literally check Washington State Parks out of the Seattle Public Library. Well almost, you can check out a Discover Pass which allows you to visit Washington State Parks for free. Keep in mind if you plan on camping you will still have to pay for your spot.
Mindfulness Meditation at the Frye
Need to take some time to get back in touch with yourself? You’re in luck because The Frye has a free, mindfulness meditation that you can attend on the first Wednesday of the month. It’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Seattle for sure.
Get some work done in a new space
Next, a trio of some “regular”, but still fun, options around the city. If working from home is getting a little old, then maybe check out our roundup of some of the best cafes in the city to get some work done.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Look at all the things to do in Seattle! Have a great, September!
