Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the festival located?
Ballard SeafoodFest is located in Ballard, a neighborhood on Seattle’s northwest side along Shilshole Bay. The festival footprint is on Market St, from 20th Ave NW to 24th Ave NW, and Ballard Ave from Market St. to 22nd Ave NW.
Is the festival free of charge?
Yes, SeafoodFest is a FREE community event with no tickets required for entry.
Is SeafoodFest accessible?
Yes, though crowded, the festival is accessible to allow for wheelchairs. Some ADA parking is available on Tallman Avenue (just south of Market St.), in the parking lot of the former Ballard Blossom building at 1766 NW Market St, and in the Bank of America parking lot at 20th Ave NW and NW 56th St.
Will there be food at SeafoodFest?
Food is available to purchase from food vendors and restaurants participating in the festival. Check back for a complete list of food vendors.
What should I know about alcohol?
Alcohol is available for purchase by those 21+ with a valid ID. Alcohol purchased at the beer booths inside the beer garden may be carried within the boundaries of the beer garden. If you buy alcohol at a bar or restaurant, you may not leave the establishment with the drink.
When does SeafoodFest start and end?
Friday, July 12: 5:00 p.m. — 11:00 p.m. (food trucks, music, & beer garden only)
Saturday, July 13: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 14: 11:00 a.m. — 8 p.m.
Which streets will be closed?
Ballard Avenue from NW Market to Vernon Place; and 22nd Avenue NW from Market Street to Shilshole will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, July 12 thru Sunday, July 14th. NW Market Street (between 24th Ave NW and 20th Ave NW) and Leary Avenue between NW Vernon and NW Market) will be closed beginning at 10:00 p.m. on Friday, July 14. All streets will be opened and ready for normal operation by 1:30 a.m. on Monday, July 15.
How do I purchase food, drinks, and merchandise at the festival?
Cash, Credit Card, and Venmo. There are ATMs onsite, and please use @BallardSeafoodFest for Venmo payments.
How do I purchase a Ballard SeafoodFest poster?
Signed 2024 Ballard SeafoodFest posters will be available for sale at the Information Booth at the corner of NW Market St and 22nd Ave NW starting Saturday, July 13th at 11 AM through Sunday, July 14th at 8 PM. SeafoodFest posters are $30 each. The poster artwork was created by the talented local artist, Shogo Ota.
Are animals allowed at the festival?
Yes. All well-behaved pets are allowed into the festival, except in the Beer Garden. If your pet has sensory sensitivities, please note that it does get crowded, and there will be live music and performances. Also, this is a summer festival and it may be hot. Please be mindful of your pet’s paws on the hot pavement and cobblestone. We have set up the “Ruff” & Tumble Dog Lounge in front of the Rough & Tumble Pub on 22nd AVE NW just off of Shilshole Ave NW. This is a great fenced in space to allow your dog to refresh and play.
How do I partner with Ballard SeafoodFest?
There are several sponsorship opportunities. View the details by clicking here.
Any hotel recommendations?
Click here to view places to stay in Ballard and the surrounding area.
How does my band play at SeafoodFest?
Please email all band inquiries to our talent buyer, Adam Praire.