Seafair Stays Virtual For 2021, Citing WA Coronavirus Guidelines

SEATTLE —One of Western Washington's most highly-anticipated summer events is on hold for another year. Seafair announced plans Wednesday to keep most activities virtual this July and August.

The decision means no July 4th fireworks over Lake Union, no Blue Angels, and no in-person parades. Annual triathlons and 5K races will have a mixture of live and virtual participation. KING 5 will air a few specials with highlights from Seafair celebrations past.

In a formal announcement, organizers pointed to existing Phase 3 guidelines, which allow for up to 9,000 spectators at outdoor sporting events, but said the scale and unique challenges of a city-wide festival exceeds what the state's rules permit.

"As organizers of one of the largest events in the Northwest, the non-profit Seafair connects communities and celebrates the best parts of living here. While encouraged by Governor Inslee's Phase 3 guidelines that support small and medium size events to return with limitations, Seafair leadership recognizes the guidelines will not support events the scale of a city-wide festival. Open-air, large-scale community gatherings without designated access and reserved searing, unlike the Mariners and Sounders, have different challenges with social distancing requirements to follow in order to keep our attendees safe. Seafair is eager to bring back events and remains heartbroken fans must limit social gatherings for a second summer. Seafair is proud to be a part of a community that is taking steps together to ensure future celebrations can occur safely."

While in-person celebrations will not be possible, Seafair will host a variety of virtual events in their place, similar to 2020. In lieu of the Torchlight Parade, neighborhoods will be nominated to welcome a Seafair caravan each week in July and August. Instead of the Blue Angels over Lake Washington, the Boeing Air Show will include a "fully simulated performance" with narration and several at-home activities for kids.

"We are proud to be part of a community that is safely emerging from the pandemic and coming back together," said Eric Corning, President and CEO of Seafair. "We are grateful for the dedication of our government leaders, first responders, and front-line workers, and recognize the sacrifices made by the people who live and work here. Doing our part to maintain the progress is simply the responsible action for Seafair to take."

Online activities will begin June 18 and run through early August. A complete list of events is available on the Seafair website. People who already purchased tickets for Seafair events can expect to hear options for refunds in the coming days.