Seafair 2026 & Summer on the Eastside
Seafair Is Back and Lake Washington Is About to Get Loud
Seafair weekend is the unofficial peak of summer on the Eastside, and it is finally here. From the rumble of jets overhead to the buzz of boats on the lake, the whole community comes alive. Whether you have lived here your whole life or this is your first summer on the water, I have got you covered with the schedule, the best free spot to watch, and how to get around without losing your cool.
You can feel Seafair before you see it. The boats start stacking up on Lake Washington days early. Then Thursday afternoon that first jet roars and rumbles over and suddenly every single person stops what they are doing and looks up. That is the Blue Angels, baby. They are back.
When to Look Up
Blue Angels Schedule
• Thursday, July 30 (Practice): 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 4:40 PM
• Friday, July 31 (Show): Approximately 3:30 PM over Lake Washington
• Saturday, August 1 (Show): Afternoon over Lake Washington
• Sunday, August 2 (Show): Afternoon over Lake Washington
Best Eastside Viewing Spots
• Aubrey Davis Park, Mercer Island: Great open park areas facing the western waters. One of the best free spots.
• Groveland Beach Park, Mercer Island: Popular waterfront spot with strict capacity and parking limits in place. Max 500 people, first-come first-served. Street parking is unavailable during Seafair weekend. No dogs allowed at the swim beach from May 1 through September 30. Arrive early.
• Carillon Point, Kirkland: Waterfront views with restaurants nearby.
• West Mercer Way, Mercer Island: The Gold Coast. 9 street ends with direct water access. The top 5 between SE 64th and SE 68th are the best. Bring intertubes, floats, and towels.
Getting Around
The I-90 bridge stays open this year, so plan for slow traffic, not a closure. West Mercer Way gets wild with pedestrians, strollers, bikes, and motorcycles sharing a narrow road. Give each other room out there.
Patience goes a long way on Seafair weekend. Leave early, park once, and enjoy the walk.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
I have called this community home since 1977, and Seafair weekend still gets me every single time. Find a dock, an inner tube, a boat, or just stay cool in your own backyard and get ready to look up. This is what summer on the Eastside is all about.
Enjoy every minute of it.
About the Author
Sharon Glatz Scott, Global Real Estate Advisor, Realogics Sotheby's International Realty, serving Mercer Island, Bellevue, and the Greater Eastside. Rooted on Mercer Island since 1977, Sharon brings rare hyperlocal knowledge and genuine community connection to every client relationship. Her proprietary SGS Selling Strategy: Smart Pricing, Gorgeous Presentation, Seamless Execution, combined with a best-in-class vendor network and Nordstrom-level service, sets her apart in a crowded market.
Putting the "REAL" back into Real Estate, Sharon Glatz Scott
Thinking about buying or selling on the Eastside?
Whether you are exploring neighborhoods on Mercer Island, eyeing a move to Bellevue, or anywhere on the Eastside, I would love to help. Give me a call or reach out anytime. No pressure, just a friendly conversation about what is possible.
Follow along on Instagram for real-time Seafair updates @sharon_gscott
Serving Mercer Island, Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Issaquah, Sammamish, Renton, and the Greater Eastside.