It’s the tail end of July, and things are really kicking into gear for August. We’ve got some big festivals on the books this coming weekend, plus plenty of music to keep you moving.
Midweek Picks
Wednesday has a few musical options if you're looking to get out. Anders Osborne & Jackie Greene are playing at Hidden Hall, and James McMurtry and The Martial Law Review & BettySoo are at the Tractor Tavern. If you’re in Tacoma, the Old Town Summer Concert Series at Old Town Park is free and features local acts like Champagne Sunday and Kim Archer.
Thursday brings more free music with The Mistaken at Curran Apple Orchard Park. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Dancing til Dusk 2026 at Hing Hay Park offers an evening of free dancing with a lesson to start.
Weekend Festivals and Fun
Friday marks the start of the Seafair Weekend Festival at Genesee Park and Playfield. This one runs through the weekend and promises live music and various activities, all for free. Over in Tacoma, the Amazing Art Expo at Hotel Murano is a free art show with a range of themed art, from Disney to horror.
Saturday is another busy day for festivals. The Lake City Summer Festival & Parade kicks off at Lake City Branch - The Seattle Public Library with live music, a car show, and craft vendors. Also on Saturday, Umoja Fest 2026 and Africatown Heritage Parade at Judkin's Park celebrates African culture with music and festivities. And for something a bit more low-key, the Vera Garden Party at The Vera Project sounds like an interesting “boutique elevated rock affair.”
Music to Close Out the Weekend
Music-wise, Friday offers a lot of variety. Old 97's are at The Crocodile, while The Highsteppers: Legends of Soul are playing at The Triple Door. If you're a Talking Heads fan, Stop Making Sense (a Coool Babies tribute show) is at The Triple Door on Saturday night. For something heavier, Six Feet Under with Kataklysm are at El Corazón on Saturday.
Sunday wraps up the weekend with the Summer at SAM Carnival at Olympic Sculpture Park, which is free. And if you're looking for some live tunes, Poor Dandy with Illbie, Manila Folder, and Crybabysitternew are playing at The Vera Project.
Looking Ahead to Next Week
Monday is a bit quieter, but you can still catch Mo' Jam Mondays at Nectar Lounge if you’re up for it, or Daniel Donato performing at Airport Tavern Music Hall down in Tacoma.