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Seafair’s Inaugural Winter by the Water Shines Through the Rain

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Umbrella dancers and audience
Copyright: Kai Y

Seattle winters don’t stop community celebrations — they just require a decent jacket.

That spirit was on full display Feb. 21 at Seafair’s inaugural Winter by the Water — presented by DSA and in partnership with ExplorePNW — along the downtown waterfront. Despite steady rain, befitting a true Seattle winter event, attendees moved between Pier 62, Pier 66 and Overlook Walk for an afternoon of music, performances, food and more.

Following check-in at Pier 62, the BECU Vendor Marketplace filled Pier 66 with local offerings, food and drinks. The Dope Girl Movement delivered a high-energy dance performance at Overlook Walk, followed by the Umbrella Uprising photo op — a fitting visual given the weather.

DSA/MID ambassadors were also on site throughout the afternoon, connecting with attendees at an event booth and sharing information about downtown programs and services. Their presence reflected the everyday work happening across the center city — from hospitality and cleaning to safety and wayfinding — that helps make events like this possible.

One of the afternoon’s highlights was the Champions of Change Pickleball Challenge, featuring Seahawks legends Michael Bennett and Doug Baldwin, who drew cheers as they rallied for a good cause. The evening transitioned indoors for concerts by Smokey Brights and The Talbott Brothers, bringing the waterfront celebration to a lively close.

Mayor Katie Wilson addressed attendees during the evening program, underscoring the importance of public events that activate downtown spaces year-round. In a memorable moment, DSA President & CEO Jon Scholes was knighted as King Neptune of Seafair, a ceremonial honor recognizing community leadership. The lighthearted ceremony — complete with sword and proclamation — added to the festive atmosphere before the music began.

Winter by the Water marked an early-season waterfront activation that demonstrated what makes downtown special: partnerships, creativity and a strong on-the-ground presence. From live music and community activities to MID ambassadors welcoming visitors, the event reinforced the waterfront as a vibrant, year-round destination — rain or shine.