U District Street Fair: Seattle’s Oldest Street Fest Puts Rain or Shine to the Test

Here at Wallyhood, we usually keep our stories nestled within the cozy confines of our beloved Wallingford neighborhood. But when a 15-block-long extravaganza pops up just a stone’s throw away, we can’t help but make an exception. Enter the 54th Annual U District Street Fair, held on May 17–18, 2025, along University Way NE.

Today marked day one of the two-day festival, and I made the dry and comfortable walk along 45th into the U District, only for the skies to open up and deliver a full-on downpour! Despite the persistent drizzle (read: relentless rain), the fair was bustling with people strolling along beneath umbrellas (surprising, I know!). Vendor stalls lined the Ave, marked by balloons in every color of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.

The variety of offerings was impressive. From handcrafted jewelry and pottery to woodworking items and plants, there was something to suit every taste. Foodies had plenty to nosh on, with over 50 food trucks and booths dishing out everything from spicy hot sauce to kangaroo jerky. And for those on the hunt for unique finds, there were paintings, t-shirts, soaps, and intricate wood carvings galore.

Entertainment was plentiful and diverse. The Main Stage showcased acts ranging from the rhythmic beats of UW Taiko Drumming to the spirited performance of the Chaotic Noise Marching Corps. Over on Brooklyn Avenue, the new Art Park and Makers in Motion zones were a hit, featuring live mural painting, axe throwing, and even a solar-powered racecar.

If you missed out today, don’t worry, you’ve got one more chance tomorrow from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Event Details:

• Dates & Times:

  • Saturday, May 17, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Location: University Way NE (“The Ave”) from NE 41st to NE 50th Street, Seattle, WA

• Admission: Free and open to all ages

• Getting There: The U District Light Rail Station at NE 43rd Street drops you right into the heart of the fair

• Highlights:

  • Over 250 vendors offering arts, crafts, vintage goods, and more

  • A dedicated Food Truck Park just north of Campus Parkway

  • Live performances on the Main Stage and throughout the festival

  • Interactive zones like Art Park and Makers in Motion

So, while Wallingford will always be our cozy corner of the world, sometimes it’s worth venturing just a little bit beyond our borders…even on a rainy day.