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Dust off your Star Wars costumes and celebrate May the Fourth this weekend. Photo: Ted Huetter/The Museum of Flight
Have you seen this weekend’s forecast? Temps in the 70s and some sunny skies! That can only mean one thing: We’re getting outside. We won’t be the only ones exploring the outdoors, either. There’s a brand-new exhibit at the Woodland Park Zoo that takes visitors up into the forest canopy to spot tree kangaroos and an adorable red panda. I got a sneak peek and let me just say, I can’t wait to go back.
And while zoo tickets may be a splurge, there are plenty of ways to save while still having a blast. We’ve rounded up the 25 best free activities for the new month, from festivals to art exhibits (and one adorable teddy bear clinic).
My top 10 weekend events are at the ready, too, whether you want to snag a free comic book, catch an illuminated drone show or meet a celebrity dog. See you out there!
1. Alaska-Themed Drone Show
Date: Friday, May 1
Cost: Free
Location: Seattle Center International Fountain, 305 Harrison St., Seattle
This one might be worth pushing past bedtime. Snag a spot on the International Fountain lawn and look up to see drones flying up to 400 feet above ground, illuminating the sky with a choreographed Alaska-themed display. It’s in celebration of Princess Cruises newest ship, Star Princess — you might just feel inspired to book an Alaska cruise for the fam.
2. ‘Jungle Book Kids, The Musical’ Presented by Broadway Bound Children’s Theatre
Date: Friday–Sunday, May 1–3
Cost: $15
Location: Magnuson Park Theatre, 7120 62nd Ave. N.E., Seattle
All too often, I find myself humming “The Bare Necessities.” It’s safe to say that “The Jungle Book” was one of my favorite movies growing up, and this production brings the classic story and catchy tunes to life onstage in a fantastic children’s theater production.
3. Free Comic Book Day 2026
Date: Saturday, May 2
Cost: Free
Location: Participating comic shops
We recently expanded my daughter’s library with a Moomin comic book (after a trip to the new exhibit at the National Nordic Museum), and it’s safe to say she wants to add more comics to her collection. Whether your kids are curious about comics or love them already, this national holiday is a chance to snag a copy for free. Head to a participating shop and take your pick of select titles.
4. May Day at Jubilee Farm
Date: Saturday, May 2
Cost: Free
Location: Jubilee Farm, 229 W. Snoqualmie River Rd. N.E., Carnation
Welcome spring at a local farm with a full day of festivities. Dance around the maypole, shop from local artisans and make fun crafts with the kids. And if you need a midday caffeine boost to make it around the maypole (no judgment here), snag one from the on-site coffee truck.
5. May the Fourth at The Museum of Flight
Date: Saturday, May 2
Cost: Included with admission ($21–$29; ages 4 and younger free) or membership; $3 off with costume
Location: The Museum of Flight, 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle
Star Wars fans, rejoice: The Museum of Flight’s annual May the Fourth event is here (early!). Watch a lightsaber show, interact with R2-D2 and jam to music with the 8-Bit Brass Band. There will also be Lego displays, face painting, story time, family workshops and showings of an animated Star Wars series. Plan for a full day to explore the museum (it’s one of my favorites!).
6. Watershed Fun Fair
Date: Saturday, May 2
Cost: Free
Location: Willow Creek Salmon and Watershed Education Center, 95 Pine St., Edmonds
With the sun hopefully shining this weekend, it’s the perfect time to get outside. This annual fair is filled with opportunities to learn about backyard wildlife habitats, native plant gardens, and soil and water resources. Kids can feed fish, plant trees and make crafts. The whole family might even be inspired to start a pollinator garden at home.
7. Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital: Community and Ribbon Cutting Day
Date: Saturday, May 2
Cost: Free
Location: Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, 305 S. L St., Tacoma
Celebrate the brand-new Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital with a special ribbon cutting, followed by live entertainment and interactive activities. Families can tour the new hospital and learn more about the expanded pediatric care options and specialized resources.
8. Wild Wonders Outdoor Theater Opening Weekend
Date: Saturday–Sunday, May 2–3
Cost: Included with admission ($16–$27; kids 2 and younger free) or membership; discounted tickets online
Location: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, 5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma
Rocket the Mail Terrier is back! Watch as the beloved celebrity dog takes to the stage with more animal friends, from aardvarks to two-toed sloths. I took my daughter to see the show last year and we absolutely loved it. Plus, there’s plenty more to explore at the zoo. Make a day of it!
9. Cinco de Mayo With Centro Cultural Mexicano
Date: Sunday, May 3
Cost: Free
Location: Downtown Redmond Park, 16101 Redmond Way, Redmond
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo a little early with live music and delicious food at this community event. This annual celebration brings plenty of entertainment and free activities for the whole family to enjoy. Plan for a little shopping too, as artisanal vendors will be selling their wares.
10. Kodomo no Hi Children’s Day
Date: Sunday, May 3
Cost: Free
Location: Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington, 1414 S. Weller St., Seattle
Could there be a better holiday than one that celebrates children’s happiness? This traditional Japanese festival includes omikuji (fortune-telling), live performances and fun games for kids to enjoy. Try Japanese treats, make koi streamers or handmade masks to take home, and spend the day celebrating with the community.
More weekend activities:
- Walk from one artsy stop to the next in this expert-curated museum district itinerary.
- Meet a cuddly alpaca (or two, or a hundred) at a local farm.
- Splurge on an impromptu staycation for the pool alone at one of these amazing hotels.
Our family fun calendar features great community events — every day of the year!
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Editor’s note: Each week ParentMap’s family fun editor, Meredith Charaba, updates The Weekender with her favorite weekend activities around Seattle, the Eastside and South Sound. It was originally published years ago and was most recently updated on April 29, 2026. Event dates, times and locations were verified by our editor.
