GNDT June 11 – 17

City of Seattle, Washington sent this bulletin at 06/17/2025 03:02 PM PDT

Hi all,

Sending another Good News Downtown, a communication to showcase uplifting, interesting, positive stories about activities and people Downtown.

If you have news or events to share, or if you want to talk about the work being done to revitalize Downtown, send me an email.

People celebrating the ribbon cutting of the completion of the pedestrian and bicycle improvements on Pike and Pine streets

Downtown’s looking good: Pike and Pine just got a major glow-up!

🚶🚲 Mayor Bruce Harrell gathered with community leaders at a ribbon cutting ceremony this week to officially unveil the newly completed Pike and Pine pedestrian and bicycle improvements – and the results are worth celebrating! With fresh bike lanes and wider sidewalks, these improvements make it easier and safer to walk and ride between Capitol Hill, Pike Place Market, and the Waterfront.

Colorful planters, art, and a new plaza near the market bring beauty and energy to the heart of Downtown just in time for summer. ☀️🌻 Whether you're heading to the Market or the Waterfront, there's a smoother, safer, and sunnier path waiting: Mayor Harrell and the Office of the Waterfront and Civic Projects & Sound Transit join civic and community leaders to celebrate the completion of pedestrian and bicycle improvements on Pike and Pine streets – Office of the Mayor.

Weekly digest

2026 FIFA World Cup countdown clock at Seattle Center

Credit: Axios Seattle

The countdown is on! 🕰️⚽ A new clock at Seattle Center is counting down the days to the kick-off of the FIFA 2026 Men’s World Cup. Mayor Harrell noted that the World Cup puts Seattle on the global stage in a powerful way, where the city can shine with our values and welcome visitors from every corner of the globe: Seattle Center unveils “One Year to Go” countdown to FIFA World Cup clock – Seattle Channel.

🏙️ ICYMI: “Downtown Seattle remains one of America’s best central cores.” This week’s Seattle Times column by Jon Talton underscores growing momentum Downtown, from a record residential population to improved pedestrian corridors and revitalized public spaces. The piece reinforces how the City’s vision is working to boost foot traffic, support small businesses, and reconnect our Downtown communities through public investment and coordination!

Seattle broke the Guinness World Record for the largest soccer lesson

Credit: Sounders FC

🎉 Seattle broke a Guinness World Record in style! Exactly 1,038 people laced up and rocked a 30-minute soccer lesson at Pier 62 on Sunday, topping the previous mark of 956. The lesson was perfectly timed, happening right before the Sounders’ exciting first match of the Club World Cup: Soccer lesson Guinness world record broken in Seattle – My Northwest.

Looking ahead

Credit: @CIDseattle

Join us for the first food walk of the summer in the Chinatown-International District on Saturday, June 21, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.! 🍙🧋 Explore a variety of local businesses offering delicious bites and exclusive discounts. Mark your calendars for future food walks on July 19 and August 21!

As the FIFA Club World Cup continues, join the RAVE Meets World Fan Fest in Occidental Park. ⚽🥅 Soak up the excitement ahead of the Sounders match against Atlético Madrid on Thursday, June 19 with mini-pitches, family games, live music, and food trucks. The event runs from 12 – 3 p.m.

🌍 Celebrate Juneteenth at Friends of Waterfront Park’s Black Night Market. The event on Friday, June 20, from 3:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Pier 62, will feature an evening of live performances, BIPOC vendors, and food trucks honoring culture, community, and joy by the water.

Credit: Rachel Bennett

🎶 Enjoy the longest day of the year with live indie rock. Head to Bell Street Park on Saturday, June 21 from 5 – 8 p.m. for a free Summer Solstice concert with indie rock band La Fonda. There will also be games, ice cream, and a pop-up Pride selfie station in the heart of Downtown: Summer Solstice Concert featuring La Fonda – Downtown Seattle Association.

Celebrate the LONGEST DAY of 2025 with the Office of Arts and Culture at King Street Station Plaza! 🌞 Experience the energy and creativity of live music, cirque performances, and fun art activities for all ages. The free event is Saturday, June 21 from 2:30 – 8 p.m.