GNDT October 8 – 15

City of Seattle, Washington sent this bulletin at 10/14/2025 03:00 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.

Seattle Mariners players celebrate a scoring play

Credit: Dean Rutz / Seattle Times

The Mariners’ playoff success is bringing fans and energy to Downtown businesses!

⚾🔱 The Mariners’ postseason run is fueling a major boost for Downtown businesses. Pioneer Square and SODO saw nearly 182,000 visits during the first weekend of October, a 141% increase from last year, as fans packed local bars, restaurants, and shops.

With over 20 new businesses opening in Pioneer Square this year, game days have become a celebration of community and growth. This further highlights the neighborhood’s "7th inning rally” and its role as Seattle’s sports hub. With the Mariners advancing to the ALCS, Downtown excitement and economic momentum will continue to grow, with at least two more home games scheduled at T-Mobile Park this week. Mariners’ playoff run sends fans and foot traffic soaring in Pioneer Square – King 5.

Weekly digest

🎷🎶 The Seattle Jazz Fellowship’s Monday Night Jam has become a local fixture, with college-aged music lovers lining up to hear spontaneous performances. The weekly sessions reflect how jazz continues to thrive in Downtown, bringing together musicians, listeners, and community of all ages with every note: Seattle Jazz Fellowship’s Monday night jazz jam draws all-ages crowd – The Seattle Times.

Seattle Restored participant Kelly Haejung Paik at her storefront in Belltown

Credit: Growing Boy Media

🖼️🎨 Through our Seattle Restored program, artist Kelly Haejung Paik has transformed an empty Belltown storefront into a vibrant installation. Her piece, Beyond Boundaries: Surreal Visions, features a dreamlike window art installation inspired by Korean aesthetics and symbolic motifs. Her work invites community reflection and cultural appreciation as it brightens a previously unused space. The exhibit runs through January 15, 2026, offering every passerby a chance to experience this unique and imaginative art installation: Beyond Boundaries: Participant Spotlight on Kelly Haejung Paik – Seattle Restored.

Exterior design of the The Boat restaurant shaped as a boat

Credit: The Infatuation

⛵🥡 The Boat, a beloved Vietnamese diner shaped like a ship in Little Saigon, was recently spotlighted by Eater Seattle. Known for its homey atmosphere and excellent comfort food, it’s a go-to for all Seattleites. Whether you're craving a warm meal or a refreshing drink, this spot delivers bold taste and a warm welcome: There’s No Better Spot for Dining Solo in the International District Than The Boat – Eater Seattle.

Looking ahead

💡🕯️ Celebrate the Diwali: Lights of India festival on Saturday, October 18, from 12 – 6 p.m., at the Seattle Center’s Armory and Fisher Pavilion. The festival features traditional dance, music, food, and cultural performances honoring the Hindu holiday. Join the community for a special showcase of heritage and joy.

Promotional graphic with an ocean in the background with text that reads "One Ocean Week, October 20-26, Seattle, Washington"

Credit: Washington Maritime Blue

🌊💙 From October 20-26, One Ocean Week Seattle unites global ocean leaders, innovators, researchers, startups, policymakers, artists, and communities to advance a sustainable, inclusive maritime future. The week features summits, cultural events, community activities, youth programs, and global delegations focused on the Blue Economy, climate action, ecosystem health, and equity. Many events will take place Downtown including the Waterfront and Seattle Climate Innovation Hub: Schedule of Events – Washington Maritime Blue.

💚❤️ On Tuesday, October 21, Bailadores de Bronce: Echoes of Mexico will bring the vibrant rhythms and dance traditions of southern Mexico to the Moore Theatre. It’s an extraordinary opportunity to experience Mexican cultural heritage through movement, music, and storytelling.

🎺🎵 The Earshot Jazz Festival returns to Seattle! Running from now until Sunday, November 2, the festival features standout performances by acclaimed artists from across the country. Enjoy concerts, premieres, and community events at multiple Downtown venues, celebrating Seattle’s rich jazz culture and musical innovation.