Hot SLU Summer Fun

Summer in South Lake Union is packed with music, markets, and waterfront adventures. Whether it’s browsing handmade goods, catching a live show, or sailing Lake Union, there’s something for everyone to enjoy under the Seattle sun. Mark your calendars and make the most of the season with these free events.

SLU Saturday Market

2100 Sixth Avenue
Saturdays through September 7

South Lake Union Saturday Market is expanding for its 10th anniversary. From June 7 through September 27, 2025, the market moves to a new, larger location spanning two full blocks in the heart of downtown. Each week, more than 100 booths feature local makers, vintage finds, and top-tier food purveyors, making it the perfect spot for weekend brunch and shopping. The Saturday market is also moving towards a more traditional farmers market model, so you can now shop for all your fresh meal-making needs.

Pike Place Market Express

Path to Yes Plaza
Thursdays through September 25

The Pike Place Market Express Farmers Market returns this summer, bringing fresh, local produce and goods directly to SLU at the Path to Yes Plaza. Shoppers can explore a rotating selection of farm-fresh vegetables, fruit, flowers, honey, jams, and organic meats, all sourced from the region’s finest farmers.

Downtown Summer Sounds

Various Downtown Locations
July 11 to August 28

Downtown Summer Sounds marks its 46th year with a lineup of local, national, and international bands performing free concerts across downtown Seattle. From indie rock and soul jazz to Cuban funk and Americana, the series offers diverse sounds for every taste.

Concerts take place at Westlake Park, Occidental Square, Bell Street Park, Union Square, and other downtown spots. The series kicks off Friday, July 11, with Raveena bringing her Indian-infused R&B pop to Westlake Park at 5 pm, preceded by a pre-show at 4 pm.

Other Concerts at Westlake Park:

July 11, 4–6:30pm: Raveena
July 25, 4–5:30pm: Kishi Bashi
July 31, 12–1:30pm: Rose City Band
August 8, 12–1:30pm: Taylah Elaine
August 22, 12–1:30pm: DRAM

View the full Downtown Summer Sounds lineup HERE.

Free Sunday Sail

The Center for Wooden Boats
Last Sunday of every month through October

Did you know you can take free boat rides through Lake Union? A Seattle tradition for more than 25 years, Free Sunday Sail invites passengers aboard a variety of boats for short, scenic voyages on Lake Union. Volunteer skippers and crew guide guests on sprit boats, steamboats, electric boats, schooners, ketches, yawls, and yachts.

Remaining 2025 Public Sail dates: July 27, August 31, September 28, October 26

SLU Block Party

Westlake Avenue North and Denny Way
August 8

Now in its 19th year, the South Lake Union Block Party is the neighborhood’s largest and longest-running festival. Hosted on the lawn of the SLU Discovery Center, this free event celebrates community spirit with music, food, and local vendors. Musical guests include Prom Date Mixtape, 90s Rewind, Hockey Teeth, and more. The SLU Block party also includes a beer and cocktail garden, tons of local food trucks, a community fair showcasing neighborhood businesses and organizations, and more.

Looking for more free stuff to do? Check out these signature events this summer.