The new year is all about new beginnings and the city of Seattle isn’t taking this lightly. Whether that be the return of some of the city’s favourite events such as Museum Month and Taste Washington or the celebration of iconic anniversaries, from Sleepless in Seattle to the Seattle Opera, there’s every reason for travellers to add this exciting destination to their bucket list this year.
Key events
Seattle Opera celebrates 60th anniversary (Now – 11 March)
In celebration of Seattle Opera’s 60th anniversary, an extensive events calendar has been announced for its 2023/24 season. Marking the key occasion, Seattle Opera is offering a range of experiences that take attendees back in time to relive the rich history of opera. From the 18th century to the 1980s, and intimate character portraits to fantasy epics, this season’s works have never before been seen in Seattle. A roster of some of opera’s most celebrated creators, including over 20 company debuts, will see stories such as The Life and Times of Malcolm X and The Barber of Seville brought to life.
Museum Month is back (1 – 28 February)
For the whole of February, guests who stay at participating downtown hotels in Seattle will receive half-price admission to the region’s favourite museums and attractions. Immerse in history, discover the very best of pop culture and stroll through a garden of intricate glass with Seattle’s Museum Month. Travellers can choose from an array of venues including the Museum of Pop Culture, The Museum of Flight and Seattle Aquarium.
Taste Washington returns (6 – 12 March)
Taste Washington, one of the biggest and best food and wine festivals in the Pacific Northwest, will this year make its return. From 6-12 March, the event will feature over 250 wineries alongside a large portion of the state’s best restaurants. New this year, the festival welcomes Pacific Standard – a highly anticipated dinner series – bringing wine lovers and makers together to enjoy a meal prepared by premier chefs. Travellers can expect talks, tasting and much more.
Countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 (June)
Seattle’s legacy as a premier sporting destination was cemented last year, following its selection as one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup in 2026. In June, FIFA will announce the number of matches, and rounds in which Seattle will host in the tournament.
30 years since Sleepless in Seattle (September)
September will mark 30 years since the release of the classic romcom, Sleepless in Seattle, which saw iconic performances from Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of the characters by strolling around the famed Pike Place Market, spotting the skyline at Gas Works Park and seeing Lake Union, where Sam Baldwin (Hanks) and his son lived in their houseboat.
New openings
Seattle Art Museum hosts first new American art installation in 15 years (now – 26 March)
Art lovers can experience a milestone at the Seattle Art Museum by viewing its new installation of American art galleries, the first in 15 years. The result of an extensive collaboration among curators, American Art: The Stories We Carry brings SAM’s historical American art collection into conversation with its native, modern and contemporary art collection. The gallery is curated by artist Inye Wokoma and features new commissions by artists Wendy Red Star and Nicholas Galanin. The exhibition presents America’s complicated history across several themes including how people interact with land and places, how objects reflect histories of trade, migration and exploration and the multiplicity of American identities.
RailSpur, Pioneer Square (opening date TBC)
Named after the railways that once ran through the area, RailSpur encompasses three historic buildings in Pioneer Square, Seattle’s first ever neighbourhood. Focusing on preservation and sustainability, the transformative micro-district includes office, retail, restaurant, residential and hospitality experiences. With most of it now complete, later this year will see the arrival of a new sophisticated boutique hotel teamed with a rooftop bar and restaurant. The accommodation set in 100 South King Street’s Westland Building will offer views of the Puget Sound and include a multi-storey living wall that will connect guests to nature.
InterContinental Bellevue at the Avenue, Bellevue (opening date TBC)
Occupying floors three to 11 of a 28-storey tower, InterContinental Bellevue at the Avenue is a 252-room hotel, decked out with luxurious rooms and 12,000 square feet of meeting space, including a grand ballroom, a junior ballroom and additional meeting rooms, not to mention the business centre, fitness centre and outdoor deck on the same floor. The hotel tower will elevate luxury and sophistication for locals and visitors alike.
For more information and to plan a trip to Seattle, visit www.visitseattle.org.
