GNDT July 29 – August 4

City of Seattle, Washington sent this bulletin at 08/04/2026 02:30 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 us an email.

People paddle boarding on a lake with Blue Angels flying in the background

Credit: Andrew Jacob Media

Downtown celebrates Seafair! 🌊🎊

Tens of thousands made their way Downtown to celebrate a Seattle tradition – Seafair! From catching a glimpse of the Blue Angels to the Seafair Torchlight Run, there were plenty of opportunities to join in the fun.

The Waterfront welcomed residents and visitors for the Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade, marking a second successful year along the new Waterfront route. Led by Grand Marshal and longtime Mariners’ broadcaster Rick Rizzs, nearly 100 community groups, nonprofits, and sponsors filled Alaskan Way with a procession of colorful floats, cultural performances, and longtime Seattle traditions. Before the parade kicked off, attendees enjoyed live music, a beer garden, and the annual Seafair Torchlight Run:

Weekly digest

A person holding a mic speaking at a community event at Sairen, a small business in the C-ID

Credit: Sairen

✨ Our office awarded nearly $1.3 million through our 2026 Tenant Improvement Program to help 43 Seattle small businesses purchase new equipment and signage that support long-term growth and stability. Nine Downtown businesses are receiving funding to modernize operations, expand services, and continue serving their communities: Nearly $1.3 million awarded to 43 local businesses through 2026 Tenant Improvement Program – Bottom Line.

✈️ Travel + Leisure recently spotlighted some of Downtown's iconic destinations. The feature highlights the revitalized Waterfront, Pike Place Market, and Seattle’s top museums as must-visit spots. It also celebrates Downtown's easy-to-navigate public transportation: The Essential Guide to Seattle, Washington – Travel + Leisure.

Graphic promoting a new Pike Place Night Market series, "The Night Shift"

Credit: Makena Yee

🌙 Pike Place Market recently welcomed visitors after hours with the debut of “The Night Shift,” a new monthly night market series created in partnership with our office. Visitors enjoyed local vendors, live performances, and an evening atmosphere that showcased the Market in a new light. “The Night Shift” is part of our ongoing efforts to grow Seattle's nighttime economy and create more opportunities for residents to experience Downtown after hours.

🏢 The CARE Department is expanding the operating hours of its Community Crisis Responders this week. Starting this week, the department is increasing citywide coverage to 6:30 a.m. – 1 a.m. daily. CCRs are trained behavioral health professionals that respond to 911 calls that do not require an armed police officer. They help de-escalate behavioral health crises, conduct welfare checks, and connect people with needed public services: New CARE hours – Instagram.

Looking ahead

A Mariners' player getting showered in bubblegum

Credit: Seattle Mariners

🔱 Tridents up! This weekend, celebrate 50 years of Mariners baseball. The weekend kicks off with an alumni home run derby night, featuring Ichiro and other former M’s players.

Saturday is the official celebration night, followed by 50 Seasons Pin Day on Sunday. Check out the Mariners' 50 Seasons Celebration Weekend schedule.
It’s “Hot Jimothy Summer!” Score a chance to get a Mariners x Jimothy T-shirt on Friday, Aug. 7. For every ticket sold, $2 will benefit the Ballard Food Bank.

🎷 Catch some jazz at Pier 58 on Thursday, August 13, from 6 – 8 p.m. as the Seattle Jazz Fellowship House Band takes the stage for a free Waterfront performance. Since 2021, the Seattle Jazz Fellowship has worked to build community, expand access to jazz, and support the next generation of musicians through mentorship and performance. Bring your family and friends for an evening of live music from local artists!

Kids playing basketball and giving high-fives

Credit: Jordan Somers / Converge Media

🏀 Head to Westlake Park next weekend for the Hot August Hoops, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament bringing together players of all ages. The event, hosted by the Downtown Seattle Association and NW All Stars on Saturday and Sunday, August 15 and 16, will feature recreational, streetball, and elite divisions for youth and adults. Make sure to register your team in advance: 3on3 Events – Northwest All Stars Basketball.

🎉 You have more time to Kick It in the C-ID. The neighborhood stamp book event was extended to Saturday, August 29. Visit any of the 72 participating businesses in the C-ID, spend $10 or more, and get your stamp. Turn in your stamps at Hing Hay Park on the 29th and claim your prize. More stamps mean bigger prizes. Get your stamp book and head over to the C-ID now!