Summer officially arrives in the Center of the Universe June 20-21, as the Fremont Solstice Parade and Fair returns for another year of creativity and community. Two days of art, music, and Fremont magic await. And of course there will be painted cyclists.
The Solstice Parade: A parade unlike any other
The heart of the weekend is the Fremont Solstice Parade, produced by the Fremont Arts Council, rolling out Saturday, June 20 at 1 p.m. If you’ve never seen it, it’s unlike any parade you’ve been to. No motorized vehicles. No printed words or logos. No animals (service animals excepted).
Anyone can participate – full participation is open to the public – and the result is a spectacle of giant puppets, stilt walkers, elaborate floats, dancers, cyclists, and musicians that you really have to see for yourself.
The parade kicks off near 3rd and Leary Way, continues along 36th Street, then turns right on 35th and ends near the Fremont Rocket and the Seattle Art Cars display inside the Fremont Fair grounds (see map for more details).
The Unofficial Solstice Cyclists
Adding to the parade’s legendary status are the unofficial Solstice Cyclists, who traditionally start the festivities with their famous painted bike ride. Participants should arrive on Northlake Way in front of Gas Works Park, painted and ready to go by 12:30 p.m. sharp. Volunteers painted like National Park Rangers will guide riders to the parade entrance ahead of the official 1 p.m. start.
The Fremont Fair: Seattle’s biggest summer welcome party
After the parade, the celebration continues at the Fremont Fair, which takes over six city blocks in Fremont. This summer tradition offers something for everyone:
Music
Live, local, and touring acts have been part of the Fremont Fair since it began in 1971, and this year is no different. The all-free Reyka Vodka Music Stage runs both days, with a full lineup of Seattle-area and touring artists. DJ Meglados spins in the Center Beer Garden Saturday at 1 p.m. Full schedule at fremontfair.com/music.
Eat, drink, shop
The fair features a diverse array of food vendors and local eats to fuel your festival experience.
Browse through hundreds of craft vendors in the craft market, featuring handmade goods and local art that capture the unique spirit of Fremont.
Special attractions
Seattle Art Car Blow Out: Over 75 decorated cars will descend upon the Center of the Universe. No more descriptions here, it has to be seen in person. For more information, visit the Art Cars page.
Sunday Dog Parade: On Sunday, June 21 at 2:00 p.m., furry friends take center stage in the Dog Parade. Registration takes place the same day on 34th Avenue at the Dog Parade tent, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Practical information
Parking: Available at B.F. Day Elementary and Fremont Baptist Church (both fundraising for their organizations) and throughout the neighborhoods.
Getting there: Arrive early to secure prime viewing spots along the parade route. The fair is easily accessible by public transit, bike, or foot.
For more details, visit the Fremont Fair FAQ or check out the complete vendor listings.
Complete Schedule
Saturday, June 20, 2025
- 10:00 a.m.: Fremont Fair opens
- 12:30 p.m.: Unofficial Solstice Cyclists gather at Gas Works Park
- 1:00 p.m.: Fremont Solstice Parade begins
- 10 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.: Fair continues with live music, vendors, food, and activities
Sunday, June 21, 2025
- 10:00 a.m.: Fair reopens
- 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Dog Parade registration (34th Avenue tent)
- 2:00 p.m.: Sunday Dog Parade
- 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: Fair continues until closing
Location: Fremont neighborhood, Seattle
Cost: Free admission to parade and fair
More Information: fremontfair.com | fremontartscouncil.org
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