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This week’s podcast takes center stage with a special guest Jeff Lockhart, Executive Director of Kirkland Performance Center, diving into the magic of the performing arts, what’s coming to the theater, and how KPC continues to connect and inspire our community!
The next meeting of the Kirkland City Council is on Tuesday, January 7, 2024. More information about the meeting will be included in an upcoming edition of ‘This Week in Kirkland.’
City administrative offices will have the following holiday closure hours:
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Dec. 24: Closing at noon
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Dec. 25: Closed all day
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Dec. 31: Closing at noon
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Jan. 1: Closed all day
Fire, police, and other critical services will remain fully operational. City services normally accessible through email, the Our Kirkland service portal, and over the phone will be available during regular business hours while administrative offices are open.
Visit our website for City Hall Holiday Closures 2024.
Have a safe, warm, and happy holiday season!
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Makes Record-Level Investments in Human Services
On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the Kirkland City Council adopted the City’s 2025-2026 biennial budget. The budget sustains essential services, funds high priority programs, and invests in key infrastructure projects over the next two years. With a total allocation of $1.08 billion, Kirkland’s budget demonstrates the City’s commitment to high-quality services, strong fiscal policies, and long-term sustainability.
Read more.
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Kirkland Performance Center (KPC), a vital part of the Eastside’s cultural scene, has launched its “Elevate KPC” capital campaign to fund $4.6 million in major renovations that will transform the audience experience. With $3.5 million already secured from partners like the State of Washington, the City of Kirkland, and local foundations, KPC now calls on the community to raise the final $1.1 million to bring this vision to life.
Why Elevate KPC?
- Enhanced Experience: All-new auditorium seating, advanced acoustics, and a refreshed, accessible lobby.
- Expanded Education: More performances and workshops for schools and youth.
- Securing the Future: Sustaining a beloved venue that welcomes 60,000 patrons annually.
Celebrate the power of the arts, right in your backyard—help us elevate KPC for future generations.
To learn more or donate, visit elevatekpc.org. Every contribution helps Elevate KPC!
Be inspired with a video showing where KPC has been and where it's going.
Add some music to your winter celebrations with these performances at the Kirkland Performance Center.
Geoffrey Castle's Celtic Christmas
Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, December 21 at 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.
This grand production features the showmanship and fiery fiddle of electric violin maestro Geoffrey Castle, complemented by: Irish Tenor and Guitarist Dan Connolly, the All-Star Celtic Band, the Seattle Irish Dance Company, PLUS the captivating voice of former Miss Kirkland, Emily McIntosh. Experience the Magic of Christmas with "Christmas In Washington"!
More info and tickets.
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Magic School - New Year's Multimedia Show
Sunday, December 22 at 4 p.m.
Multimedia show “Magic School” is a unique interactive New Year’s performance. You will visit a magic school and become real wizards. During the performance, children and adults travel through time, manipulate objects and do extraordinary things, learn magic spells, and help save Santa Claus’s magic staff. Elf Alvin, together with young wizards, goes on an extraordinary journey to correct a mistake that could destroy New Year’s Eve. Together, heroes and viewers defeat evil and do good deeds around the world. More info and tickets.
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Amazing Bubble Man
Saturday, December 28 at 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Sunday, December 29 at 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences around the world for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. He is a favorite at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where he has enjoyed twelve years of sell-out success.
Louis explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. More info and tickets.
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We’re thrilled to share some exciting news: This Week in Kirkland podcast has reached an incredible milestone—7,500 downloads! This achievement wouldn’t be possible without you, our dedicated listeners. Thank you for tuning in, sharing episodes, and being part of our podcast community.
If you haven’t listened yet, now’s the perfect time! Join the fun and see why everyone’s tuning in to get the scoop on all things Kirkland. This Week in Kirkland is your go-to source for updates, insights, and stories about all things Kirkland. Let’s keep the momentum going as we aim for 10,000 downloads together.
Check out the latest episodes here: kirklandwa.gov/podcast.
Still finishing up your holiday shopping? Look no further than Kirkland’s local businesses! From unique handmade gifts to delicious treats, our local shops have something special for everyone on your list.
When you shop local, you’re giving more than just a gift—you’re supporting your neighbors, small businesses, and the heart of our community. Whether it’s a cozy boutique, a specialty store, or your favorite café, every purchase helps keep Kirkland vibrant and thriving.
Finish your shopping, find something memorable, and feel great about supporting local businesses this season! Explore Kirkland’s shops at ShopLocalKirkland.com
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Are your pets prepared for winter weather? Keep your furry friends safe by updating their microchip and Kirkland Pet License info. Pack a kit with the essentials: food, water, medications, a favorite toy, and a towel or blanket. If your pet gets nervous around others, consider adding a muzzle too. A little prep now means peace of mind later! Get more tips to build your kit here: ready.gov/pets
Some pets love a party, while others prefer peace and quiet. If you’re hosting guests, make sure your pets stay safe and sound this season—starting with a pet license from the Kirkland Police Department so they can find their way home if they get out. Here are some tips to keep tails wagging and paws out of trouble:
Party Time:
- If your pet gets overwhelmed by visitors, set them up in a quiet room or crate for comfort.
- Avoid putting pets outside in cold weather—keep them cozy inside with plenty of toys to stay busy.
- Let guests know ahead of time you have a pet, so everyone’s prepared.
No Table Scraps!
- Keep your pet on their regular food and treats. Some common holiday foods to avoid:
- Bones, candy, citrus, coffee, raisins, nuts, raw meat/fish, onions, and chocolate.
Holiday Decor Tips:
- Keep pets from chewing on tree branches or drinking water from the tree base—both can be harmful.
- Position lights, tinsel, and ornaments out of reach.
- Never leave candles unattended—pets can easily knock them over.
- Watch out for seasonal plants like ivy, holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias, which can be toxic if ingested.
Let’s keep the holidays merry, bright, and safe for our furry family members!
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Don’t let thieves steal your holiday cheer.
The holiday season is a prime time for package thieves and car prowlers. Kirkland Police offer these simple tips to keep your gifts and deliveries safe:
Package Safety
- Sign up for delivery alerts so you know when packages arrive.
- Provide specific delivery instructions to keep packages out of sight.
- Have packages delivered to work, a trusted neighbor, or a secure pickup location.
- Don’t leave deliveries unattended for long—ask a neighbor to grab them if you’re not home.
Shopping Safety
- Always lock your car and roll up the windows.
- Keep valuables, bags, and gifts out of sight. Better yet, take them with you!
- Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas, and avoid spots hidden by large vehicles or shrubs.
- Drop gifts off at home if you can—don’t let thieves spot you loading up your car.
Let’s keep the season bright and safe. Stay alert, take precautions, and enjoy your holiday shopping
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The holidays are a time for festive lights, cozy decorations, and candlelit charm—but they also bring an increased risk of fire. Did you know over one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles? The Kirkland Fire Department has some simple tips to help keep your celebrations safe and bright:
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Water real trees regularly—dry trees can quickly become a fire hazard.
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Keep candles away from decorations, trees, and anything flammable.
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Check your holiday lights: Use indoor lights indoors, outdoor lights outdoors, and replace any worn cords or loose bulb connections.
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Hang lights safely: Use clips, not nails, to avoid damaging cords.
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Be fire-ready: Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher—and know how to use it.
Before you leave the house or head to bed:
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Blow out candles to keep your space safe.
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Turn off all lights and decorations to prevent hazards.
Check out this video from FEMA to see easy tips you can follow to stay safe.
For many, the holidays mean parties, celebrations, and time spent with loved ones. But they can also come with a higher risk of impaired driving. Let’s all do our part to keep the season safe by preventing drunk or high driving.
Washington law enforcement will be out in full force with extra patrols through January 1, and you can help, too. The Washington Traffic Safety Commission offers these tips:
- Be the sober driver or stop someone you care about from getting behind the wheel impaired.
- Arrange a ride — call a cab, rideshare, or designate a driver.
- Offer your couch for the night or help them stay where they are.
- Call for backup — if you’re unsure how to intervene, get others to help or call 911.
If you call 911 to prevent a crash, remember:
- Share the car’s make, model, and license plate.
- Give the route, direction, and a description of the driver.
Stopping someone from driving impaired is like reaching out to prevent a fall—you’re helping protect them and everyone else on the road. Let’s get everyone home safely this holiday season.
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Did you know you can take the on-demand transportation service called Metro Flex to The Village at Totem Lake from anywhere in the Juanita and Finn Hill areas? Go see a movie or participate in a seasonal special event! There’s a spa, shopping, coffee, and fun activities for families. Metro Flex operates weekdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and rides can be ordered through an app or a phone call. Solo riders can be as young as 13 years old. Contact Blair Daly, Transportation Program Coordinator, with questions (425-587-3924, bdaly@kirklandwa.gov).
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In 2024, the City of Kirkland teamed up with Bloodworks Northwest to host five successful blood drives, supporting local hospitals and making a meaningful impact on our community. Thanks to your incredible generosity, we saw 296 registrations, 269 blood collections, and welcomed 44 first-time donors.
We are truly grateful for the individuals who came together to help save lives. Thank you for making a difference and for your continued support in our community!
Want to be part of the difference? Book an appointment today.
In response to last month's storm, King County Solid Waste Division is resuming free yard waste drop-off at select transfer stations during three upcoming weekends. King County residents can drop off tree limbs, and other woody debris for free at the Bow Lake, Enumclaw, Factoria, and Shoreline facilities during the weekends of Dec. 21-22, and Jan. 11-12.
The free service is exclusively for wood debris from the recent storms. Stumps, logs and limbs no longer than six feet in length are allowed – no grass clippings, sod or soil will be accepted. These events are open to all King County residents. People visiting recycling and transfer stations are reminded to secure their loads. More information on the King County website.
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100th Avenue Northeast
Construction will pause on 100th Avenue Northeast Corridor Improvements from Dec. 23 to Jan 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, drivers will encounter alternating traffic at various locations between Northeast 137th and 145th streets. The legal speed limit through the construction zone is 25 miles per hour. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/100thavedesign
116th Avenue Northeast
Construction will pause on Kirkland's first Transportation Benefit District funded project from Dec. 23 to Jan. 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, drivers near Lake Washington High School will encounter 116th Avenue Northeast reduced to a single lane from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. north of Northeast 70th Street. Kirkland's contractor is building sidewalks and stormwater improvements on this section of street. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/tbd
124th Avenue Northeast
Kirkland’s contractor continues work on the east side of the street, between Northeast 116th Street and Northeast 124th Street. Drivers exiting businesses will encounter “Right Turn Only” access to 124th Avenue Northeast. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/124thavenue
132nd Avenue Northeast
Drivers traveling on 132nd Avenue Northeast will encounter sidewalk construction from NE 95th Street to Lake Washington Technical Institute. Traffic is reduced to a single lane controlled by flaggers from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kirkland's contractor is building sidewalks and stormwater improvements for the second Transportation Benefit District funded project. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/tbd
Juanita Drive
Construction will pause on the Juanita Drive Corridor Improvements from Dec. 23 to Jan. 3. Beginning Monday, Jan. 6, Juanita Drive will be reduced to one lane periodically between 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Northeast 124th Street to Northeast 128th Street with flaggers controlling the flow of traffic. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/juanitadrivecorridor
Eighth Avenue West and Fifth Street West
Eighth Avenue West remains closed between Market Street and Fifth Street West. This project will repair the sidewalks, curb and gutter, and temporarily patch the roadway to a better condition than currently exists before suspending work for the Winter. No construction will occur on Dec. 24, 25, 31 or Jan. 1. Final paving will occur in 2025. Visit www.kirklandwa.gov/eighthavenuewestupgrade
 Stewardship with Green Kirkland Partnership
Get outside, get active, and make a difference! Join Green Kirkland for a volunteer event in our parks and natural spaces. You'll help remove invasive plants, plant native species, and care for the environment—all while meeting great people and enjoying the outdoors. No experience needed, and tools are provided. Let’s work together to keep Kirkland green and beautiful.
Saturday, December 21 | South Rose Hill Park | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Friday, December 27 | Juanita Bay Park (East) | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Friday, January 3 | Juanita Bay Park (East) | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Friday, January 17 | Juanita Bay Park (East) | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Monday, January 20 | MLK Jr Day of Service | Everest Park | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Kirkland Teen Union Building Open House
Date: Tuesday, January 7
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Kirkland Teen Union Building, 348 Kirkland Ave
Parents, guardians, and neighbors are invited to visit the Kirkland Teen Union Building during monthly open houses to learn more about KTUB's programs and services.
KTUB empowers teens to live their best life. Located in the middle of Peter Kirk Park in downtown Kirkland, KTUB provides programs and services for youth in middle school through high school (ages 11-19).
More info.
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Co-Working and Business Advising Day
Date: Wednesday, January 8
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: City Hall, 123 5th Ave
Calling all entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners! Join us at Kirkland City Hall for a day of coworking, collaboration, and free business advice. Connect with other business leaders and take advantage of 30-minute sessions with experienced advisors who can help you tackle challenges and grow your business. Drop in anytime or stay for the day—let’s work, connect, and innovate together.
More info.
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In case you missed it, 3 essential firearm safety tips every responsible owner should know—shared by our very own Neighborhood Resource Officer Paul Arnold.
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