As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change, September brings a new season of festivities in Seattle. From time-honored traditions such as the Washington State Fair to the celebration of diverse cultures at Seattle Center, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month. So, if you’re looking for something fun to do, whether it’s for a day with friends or just a change of scenery, check out these four events Seattle offers in September.
For more than a century, the scent of Fisher Scones and the sounds of people screaming on the Classic Coaster have signaled the arrival of the Washington State Fair. Since 1900, this annual event in Puyallup has been a beloved tradition, drawing over a million visitors every year. Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of carnival rides, from classics like the Ferris Wheel and bumper cars to more modern thrill rides such as the Zipper and the Extreme Scream. In addition to the iconic Fisher scones, the event offers all the traditional fair foods, including hot dogs, cotton candy, and corn dogs.
Beyond the carnival atmosphere, the Washington State Fair showcases a variety of animals. The popular Piglet Palace is a must-see, as it allows fairgoers to observe dozens of adorable newborn piglets playing with each other. There are also barns and exhibits featuring a menagerie of other animals, including horses, cows, chickens, cats, dogs, and rabbits. The fair runs every day (besides Tuesdays) until September 21st. General admission on the weekends is $20 ($18 if you purchase tickets online), with additional costs for rides and games.
On Saturday, September 13, get ready to run for a sweet cause at Seattle’s National Chocolate Day run. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun day out, this event welcomes participants of all ages and paces. Participants can choose from distances of one mile, 5K, 10K, and a half-marathon. The real reward, however, awaits at the finish line: each runner who completes their race is met with an assortment of delicious chocolate treats, providing the perfect incentive to push through the miles. Beyond the chocolates, participants will also receive a free running shirt and finisher’s medal to commemorate their accomplishment. Prices range from $32.80 to $48.70, depending on which race you choose to do. There are limited spots, so make sure to sign up quickly!
Cultural Festivals at the Armory
Located in the heart of Seattle, the Armory at Seattle Center offers a window into many diverse cultures through a series of free festivals throughout the year. These events, part of Seattle Center Festál, are produced in collaboration with local community groups, offering a chance for Seattleites to immerse themselves in different traditions. This month’s celebrations kick off on September 7th, with the Live Aloha Hawaiian Cultural Festival, where the spirit of Hawaii is celebrated with hula dancing, traditional music, and workshops on Hawaiian arts and crafts.
The festivities continue the following weekend with Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias on September 13th and 14th. This celebration commemorates the independence of Latin American countries and showcases traditional folk dance music, live performances, and delicious food. Next up is the Iranian Festival on Saturday, September 20th, which highlights one of the world’s most ancient cultures, bringing people together with Persian poetry, dance, and music. Finally, the Italian Festival on September 27th and 28th rounds out the month’s cultural events. As the largest Italian-American gathering in the PNW, this occasion features cooking demonstrations, classic cars, a dog show, and a grape stomp. These free festivals provide everyone with an immersive experience of traditions from all over the world and are a perfect way to spend the weekend.
Every year in late September, the Space Needle hosts the Base 2 Space climb to raise money for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. On September 28th, this event invites you to scale all 832 open-air steps of Seattle’s most iconic landmark. It’s the only time of year that the stairs are open to the public, offering climbers a unique, bird’s-eye view of downtown Seattle and the Puget Sound. If it happens to be a clear day, Mt. Rainier may also be visible!
The journey up the Space Needle’s 98 flights of stairs typically takes about 30 minutes, and since the first climb in 2016, the event has raised over $4.5 million for cancer research. After the climb, you can spend as much time as you’d like at the top of the Space Needle and enjoy the 360-degree view of the city. Don’t worry — once you’re ready to head back down, you can simply take the elevator. For anyone who wants to support an important cause while also getting in some cardio, Base 2 Space is the place to be.
I hope this article helps you make the most of the month ahead. As you plan your outings make sure to check the specific dates, times, and admission details for each event. Whether you find yourself enjoying a scone at the fair or supporting a great cause at the Space Needle, I hope you have a fantastic month and enjoy all that Seattle has to offer!