Saddle Up: Pioneer Square Dance Is Coming Sept. 10

We’re bringing the wild west to Occidental Square for the first-ever Pioneer Square Dance, and it’s shaping up to be the rootin’-tootin’-est afternoon downtown has seen in a while.

Dust off your boots and head to Occidental Square on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 3-8 p.m. for mechanical bull riding, square-dancing lessons, live fiddle music, a best-dressed contest, giveaways and more. The event is free and open to all, right in the heart of Pioneer Square. 

Here’s a taste of what to expect: 

• 3-3:30 p.m.: Opening set from Isaiah Banks 
• 4-6 p.m.: A fiddle group teaches a square-dancing lesson, then performs
• 6:15-6:45 p.m.: A set from Rainbow Jackson
• 6:45-7 p.m.: Best-dressed contest, judged live
• 7-8 p.m.: A headliner set (stay tuned) closes out the night 

Food and drinks will come from a lineup of local favorites, including Good Bar, Seattle Pops, Whateke Mexican Food, The Home Skillit and more. Expect western-themed decor throughout the square, giveaways like bandanas and cowboy hats and classic backyard games including horseshoes and cornhole.

“Pioneer Square has such a strong identity, and we wanted an event that celebrates that in a fun, unique way,” said Floretta Woart, DSA senior specialist of events & programming. “Swing by, enjoy some good music, food and company, and find out what a square dance in the square actually looks like.”

Stay tuned in the weeks ahead for lineup announcements, the full schedule and more details.

Mark your calendars; you don’t want to miss this one.