Over the weekend, I visited Ballard SeafoodFest, a longstanding tradition for me.  I used to live in Ballard and I miss it.  The neighborhood has (and continues) to transform.  SeafoodFest is one of the things I go to almost every year and gather with friends and family.  Either I plan to meet people or I just run into them – it happens every time.

Vendors and community organizations can be found on Market Street (mostly North of 22nd).  Whether you’re looking for creative Seahawks gear, laser cut wood products, or want to support Ballard High School, there’s tons to see!

Food trucks have become the anchor of Market St. on the South end starting at 20th.  This year, Nosh, Where Ya At Matt, and Don Lucho’s were the heavy hitters onsite.

Street food was located on Leary Ave. with Trident Seafoods and Alaska Weathervane leading the way.  As with other events, it is becoming more common for food vendors to add a service charge for using cards (if they accept cards).  Those fees can add up so you may want to bring more cash than you would typically carry.

Dessert vendors were located on 22nd, just North of Bergen Place.  I made several stops at Seattle Pops and Scout’s Mini Donuts.  I had a blueberry ice pop (check out those berries!) and a batch of smores donuts.

One of the highlights of SeafoodFest is the annual salmon bake.  Each year, salmon is baked onsite in special boxes that are kept heated during the hours of the festival.  The meals have changed over the years but I can attest – the salmon is excellent!

For your entertainment pleasure, there is always a music stage, a rather large beer garden, and plenty of kid’s activities.  I recommend attending on Sunday so you can swing by Ballard Sunday Market.  Yes, there’s a lot of people on Sunday but parking is free and you can make a day of it.

SeafoodFest holds a lot of memories for me.  I can’t imagine summer without it.