Photo:
Travis Trautt
When I first moved to Seattle, I heard again and again that I could not miss out on Bumbershoot. The two-day festival is a quintessential Seattle summer event, and I can see why. The first year I went, the sun was shining and Seattle Center was abuzz with live music, enthusiastic crowds and local vendors. That was over a decade ago, and I am so excited to see this tradition continue and share it with my family.
Every summer, Bumbershoot draws in thousands of people for a weekend celebration of music, creativity and culture. This year, families can look forward to incredible art, music and immersive experiences from more than 100 artists.
Bumbershoot 2025 lineup
This year’s Bumbershoot will be held over Labor Day weekend (Aug. 30–31). In addition to its visual arts programming, Bumbershoot recently released its music lineup. Headlining artists include Weezer, Car Seat Headrest, Aurora and Janelle Monáe. Also on the list: Bright Eyes, Digable Planets, and Saba. Parents can dust off their vintage band tees, browse the exciting lineup to find their favorite artists, and make a plan to introduce their kids to the magic of live music.
Family activities at Bumbershoot
Bumbershoot promises stunning visual spectacles, dance performances and art for all ages to enjoy throughout Seattle Center, with several themed areas — called districts — for families to explore.
Navigating the Bumbershoot districts
- Recess District: In this district, kids can get a kick out of watching wrestlers during the Bumbermania! Wrestling Program. Plus, there will be aerial and acrobatic performances, skateboarding, roller-skating and more to watch. Kids can even join an aerial workshop in the afternoons from 12:30–1:30 p.m. and 3:30–4:30 p.m. There will also be an intermediate skate competition on Saturday, Aug. 30, from 5:30–6:30 p.m.
- Fashion District: Fashionistas of all ages will love the youth-led High Fashion High showcase with new designers this year. This is the place to get a makeover, too, whether it’s space buns and glitter hair with Rudy’s Barbershop, nail painting with Nails by Katja and The Gel Mxmi Nails, or fresh glitter freckles in the wig dome. There will also be a fashion marketplace where you’ll want to treat yourself (and your kids).
- Geodesic dome program: Geodesic domes can be found throughout the festival grounds, with micro-programs such as the always-popular Cat Circus.
- Flatstock: Poster enthusiasts rejoice — Flatstock is the place to experience incredible printed art and purchase posters by famous artists.
Just a note: Families may want to steer clear of the Comedy Coop as it’s geared more toward adults.
If you’re like me and want a souvenir to take home, festival and artist merch can be found between the Fisher and Fountain stages.
What to eat at Bumbershoot
While you may be tempted to pack your lunch and save your money for that new band merch, it is important to note that outside food and drink are not allowed at Bumbershoot. Re-entry isn’t allowed, either, so make a plan to stay for the day and enjoy one (or more!) of the hundreds of food options available at the festival.
The pickiest of eaters will likely be comforted by the familiar sight of burgers, hot dogs and fries, while those with more adventurous palates can delight in salmon sandwiches, curry, Korean-Mexican fusion dishes and more. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options will be available.
What to bring to Bumbershoot (and what to leave at home)
Bumbershoot has a clear bag policy intended to make the festival safer and entry faster, so plan to pack what you need in a clear bag that measures less than 18 by 18 by 6 inches. You can also bring backpacks, shoulder bags and small handbags that are not clear, but they are subject to a security search at the entrance (which may mean a longer wait time getting into the festival).
Bumbershoot allows child-occupied strollers, and for good reason: Little ones will likely get tired walking around the festival all day. Wagons, carts and infant car seats are not allowed, however.
While you can’t bring outside food or beverages, you can bring an empty, refillable non-glass water bottle and fill it at the Seattle Center Armory.
Also, since Bumbershoot happens rain or shine, you will want to pack weather-dependent accessories such as sunscreen, hats, rain gear or extra layers of clothing.
Getting tickets for Bumbershoot
While new Bumbershoot programming has been a priority, festival leaders have kept affordability top-of-mind. This year more kids can enjoy free admission with the new age threshold: Kids ages 12 and younger are free with an accompanying adult. Note that kids still need a ticket, so be sure to add those on when purchasing your tickets online, and keep in mind there is a limit of two free children’s tickets per online order.
Time to start the countdown to this awe-inspiring, family-friendly festival!
If you go to Bumbershoot …Where: Bumbershoot takes place at Seattle Center, located at 305 Harrison St. in Seattle. When: Labor Day Weekend, Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 30–31, 2025. Doors open daily at 12:30 p.m. Cost: Single day tickets cost $125; weekend passes are $150; and the deluxe package (which includes weekend admission, parking, a private entrance, re-entry and more) is $350. Children 12 and younger are free, but still require a ticket. Facilities: Seattle Center has restrooms in all indoor venue locations, including Cornish Playhouse, The Armory, Fisher Pavilion, SIFF Film Center and KEXP. The indoor facilities all have ADA access and The Armory has accommodations for diaper changes. There will also be outdoor port-a-potties. More info: Bumbershoot happens rain or shine. Unless you purchase the deluxe package, there is no re-entry allowed. More details can be found on Bumbershoot’s FAQ page. Getting there: Bumbershoot is a popular summer tradition, so expect the surrounding lower Queen Anne neighborhood to be busy. You may want to consider taking public transit, the Monorail or bike; or plan to park outside of Seattle Center and walk. For additional tips, head to Seattle Center’s getting here page. |
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in 2024 and updated on Aug. 8, 2025, by the writer with details for this year’s festival. Madison Miller contributed to this article.
