While SIFF shows movies all year long at various venues, this is the month the organization really shines. Its popular fest runs Thursday, May 15 through Sunday, May 25 for in-person screenings, with a week of flick-streaming at home to follow.
The sheer number of cinematic options can be overwhelming, so here are some pro tips:
Rock Stars on Ice | 7 p.m. | Climate Pledge Arena | $45+ | Watch as world champion ice skaters float around the ice to your favorite rock hits.
Friday, May 16
J Balvin: “Back To The Rayo” Tour | 8 p.m. | Climate Pledge Arena | $65+ | This Colombian singer has made quite the wave with hits like “Mi Gente” and “I Like It.”
Saturday, May 17
French Macarons | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | The Pastry Project | $150 | This sweet little class will leave you with the knowledge to make your own adorable sandwich cookies.
Tour De Pints 2025 | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Flying Bike Cooperative Brewery | Free | Riding your bike to all of these breweries is going to make you mighty thirsty — we recommend a helmet and taking water breaks.
Tuesday, May 20
Seinfeld Trivia | 7-8:30 p.m. | Wildrose | $7 | What’s the DEAL with all these questions? Test how much you know about the hit ‘90s sitcom.
Wednesday, May 21
Mayhem: A Lady Gaga Tribute Show | 9-11 p.m. | Unicorn | $10 | In her tongue she said, death or dance to your favorite Gaga songs tonight.
Time to huddle over plans to watch the Seahawks games — the team’s 2025-2026 schedule is out. Hear from the local experts about what challenges are in store for the Seahawks with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Maritime
Ferry important news — two companies have submitted bids to build Washington State Ferries’ (WSF) three new hybrid-electric vessels. In-state company Nichols Brothers Boat Builders estimates the cost at over $1 billion, while Panama-based Eastern Shipbuilding Group puts its cost at $714.5 million. WSF will review the bids before making a decision. (Seattle Times)
Announced
The Seattle Storm’s new(ish) training center in Interbay has granted naming rights to BECU, a partner to the team for nearly a decade. The $64 million state-of-the-arts facility will now be called the BECU Storm Center for Basketball Performance. The court at Climate Pledge Arena will also be called the BECU Court beginning May 25. (Puget Sound Business Journal)
Outdoors
Heads up, Mt. Rainier hikers. Reservations to use the park’s White River Entrance in July open tomorrow, May 16 (August reservations open June 6). All reservations cost $2 + next-day reservations will open at 7 p.m. the night before. Because of a number of construction projects, reservations for Paradise Corridor will not be needed this year. (Seattle Times)
Coming Soon
Pioneer Square’s first rooftop bar is just days away from opening. Firn, which is attached to the new carbon-positive hotel Populus, will open Thursday, May 22 with a cocktail and light bites menu that explores preserving the PNW’s local meats + produce. You can also expect some slushies and shaved ice cocktails on the menu. (Eater Seattle)
Real Estate
Ooh-la-la. A $23 million Bellevue mansion that once belonged to a Microsoft exec has hit the market. The 8,900-sqft home on Meydenbauer Bay features five bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a pool + spa, a cabana, a wine cellar, a boat dock, and a tub overlooking the lake. (Puget Sound Business Journal)
Seattleite
The UW women’s soccer team’s star goalkeeper Mia Hamant has been diagnosed with a rare cancer, but she’s not alone. Her teammates and coach are there to support her off the field, too. Check out the full story with KING 5’s Arielle Orsuto.
Number
48 million. That’s how many Americans hear so poorly that their quality of life suffers — think: missing out on convos, concerts, and un-captioned movies. Fortunately, this hearing aid changes the game. Try out its dual processing technology for yourself with a free 45-day, no-risk trial.*
Stat
50%. That’s how many dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer in their lifetime. In addition to lots of tears, pet cancer care can cost you lots of money. Luckily,this pet insurance plan could reimburse you up to 90% on applicable pet care costs.*
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Hot office tea is best poured with a nice, big green salad on a patio — don’t cha think? | Photo by @snackingonseattle
Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Seattle. Check out this list of places where lunch for one costs $15 or less.
Matt’s Hot Dogs
All burgers and hot dog options are less than $10 at this spot that only asks that you don’t try to marry its fries (as much as you might want to).
Mendocino Farms
This restaurant’s lunchtime scene offers an avocado and quinoa salad along with other tempting creations priced at, or around, $15.
Saigon Deli
Loved by even the New York Times, these $5 sandwiches pull lines that wrap around the block at lunchtime. You may have a wait, but it’ll be worth it.
Big Mario’s
Slices ring in for about ~$5 each (depending on toppings), and they always taste great on the go.
Summertime’s humidity + extra time in the sunshine can take a toll on your hair. Add these five essentials to your haircare routine to keep your locks nourished all season long:
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