GNDT August 5 – 11

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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.


haʔłali Amenity Building in Centennial Park on Seattle's Waterfront

Credit: Port of Seattle

haʔłali opens at the Waterfront: Honoring Coast Salish heritage 🌊🏞️

Centennial Park reopened at the Waterfront, featuring haʔłali, a new public amenities building whose name roughly translates to "The Good Place" in Lushootseed. Inspired by the Coast Salish longhouse, the building honors the Coast Salish people and their deep connection to the land and water.

Located on the edge of Elliott Bay, haʔłali offers sweeping views of the water and the Olympic Mountains. Visitors can enjoy walking and cycling paths, covered seating, restrooms, a gathering space, and the Scandinavian-inspired Café Hagen. The surrounding landscape features the "13 Moons" installation by Muckleshoot Indian Tribe member Valarie Segrest, alongside a native meadow planted with Indigenous species significant to the Coast Salish people: The ‘Good Place’: How haʔłali Brings Coast Salish Culture to Seattle’s Waterfront – Port of Seattle.

Weekly digest

The mural features the chim lạc, a bird associated with ancient Vietnamese culture, and a leaf motif. Mural by Seattle artist Stacy Nguyen.

Credit: AARP Washington

🎨 A vibrant new mural celebrates Seattle’s Vietnamese community in Little Saigon! Designed by Seattle artist Stacy Nguyen and painted with local volunteer help, the mural at Asian Plaza centers on Vietnamese symbols of hope and aspiration. The new public art project invites residents and visitors to explore Little Saigon, honoring its history and looking toward its future: New mural spotlights history, culture of Little Saigon – NW Asian Weekly.


🍻 Urban Family Brewing Co. is bringing its colorful craft beers to the Waterfront. The Ballard-based brewery’s second location will also feature craft cocktails, local wines, and coffee alongside an expansive food menu built by award-winning local chefs Chris and Sandra Curtiss. The new spot boasts a 4,500-square-foot covered patio that overlooks Elliott Bay and is set to open later this summer: Waterfront – Urban Family Brewing Co.


⚾ The Mariners' celebrated their golden anniversary in style this weekend. The team marked its 50th season with events throughout the weekend, from the first alumni home run derby headlined by Ichiro Suzuki to the unveiling of the team’s top 50 players: Ichiro! Lou! Rizzs! Legends come home for packed 50 Seasons Celebration – MLB.


"New from Tee," Pictured L to R: Unknown, David Roebuck, Mary Doresey, Earnest, Patricia Towers, Tee Dennard

Credit: Office of Arts and Culture

🎭 A new exhibition is shining a spotlight on an important chapter of Seattle's art history. On display at ARTS at King Street Station, "Black Arts Legacies: The Negro Repertory Company" explores the story of one of the nation's first Black theater companies founded in Seattle during the 1930s. Through photographs, archival materials, and community storytelling, the exhibition highlights the artists who helped shape Seattle's cultural landscape. The exhibition invites visitors to learn more about the city's creative past, immersing themselves in Seattle's rich history: New Exhibition Revisits Historic Black Theater in Seattle – Art Beat.

Looking ahead

🔎 Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test at Urban-X, Downtown’s scavenger hunt adventure. Teams will navigate landmarks, solve clues, and complete challenges throughout the core of Seattle in a race that combines exploration with friendly competition. The event on Friday, August 13 offers a unique way to experience Downtown while discovering local destinations along the way: Urban-X Scavenger Hunt Returns to Downtown Seattle for a Morning of Team Adventure – MyNorthwest.


🎉 Check out the culture, businesses, and community of Little Saigon at Celebrate Little Saigon on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 12 – 5 p.m. The annual event features live performances, cultural activities, and food vendors. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience one of Seattle's most vibrant neighborhoods: RSVP here today!


A person browsing through plants at PlantCon

Credit: PlantCon

🪴 PlantCon Seattle returns to Pier 62 this weekend, August 15 – 16, bringing together plant enthusiasts, collectors, and local vendors from across the region. Attendees can shop for rare and unique houseplants, connect with experts, and learn more about caring for their growing collections.


💥 Get ready for the 2nd Annual Belltown Blast on Saturday, August 15, starting at 12 p.m. This community party features an exciting mix of live music, live murals, skateboarding, and more. Don’t miss out on this party bringing neighbors together in the heart of Belltown.


People browsing through closing racks at the Occidental Square Flea Market

Credit: Occidental Square Flea

🛍️ Calling all shopaholics! Browse local vendors, discover handmade goods, and enjoy live entertainment at the Occidental Square Trading Post once a month, starting this Saturday, August 15 from 12 – 5 p.m. Hosted by the Downtown Seattle Association, the open-air market transforms Occidental Square into an eclectic gathering place featuring local artists, makers, and small businesses.