Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Release Parties, Pokemon Go Food Walks, The 420 Games, And More Unusual Picks For July 26-31
by Stranger Things To Do Staff
Our arts critics have already recommended 35 great things to do this week and our music critics have picked the 28 best concerts, but there are still hundreds more events happening. To prevent some of the quirkier and more extraordinary ones from slipping through the cracks, we've compiled them here—from events for Pokemon Go lovers (like the Pokemon Go Capitol Hill Food Safari or the Happy Hour Pokewalk in the Chinatown-International District) to events celebrating the release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and from Sexploration to The 420 Games. For even more options this week, check out our complete Things To Do calendar.
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TUESDAY
1. Cinememory: Navigating the Past Through Film
Presented by Emerald Reels, this program will feature international and local experimental films that explore how past memories (both personal and collective) are told through cinema.
2. Flock Yeah! A Chamber Music Extravaganza
Originating from a Beth Flexor utterance at a Karin Stevens dance event, the "Flock Yeah" show builds on the connection of chamber music chamber dance talents, wherein each performer will build upon the other's energy. This night features Wayne Horvitz's and Michael Owcharuk's string quartets, with violinists Paris Hurley and Alex Guy, violist Heather Bentley, cellist Maria Scherer Wilson, and solo improvisation by the clarinetist Beth Fleenor.
3. Global Cafe: Social Media and Global Relations
YPIN (Young Professionals International Network) will host this community discussion—open to everyone—about the role of social media in global relations. What does sharing on Facebook really do?
4. Halloween in July
Seattle-based author and filmmaker Garth Stein will read from his new picture book, Enzo's Very Scary Halloween (aimed at kids ages four through eight). Secret Garden will host a Halloween party in celebration, with a costume parade and "trick or treats.”
5. Maiden Voyage
Parley presents the premiere of Maiden Voyage, a play by Rebecca Tourino Collinsworth inspired by The Odyssey, exploring more from Penelope's perspective.
6. Meet Seattle Sounders Defender Oniel Fisher
Sounders FC defender Oniel Fisher will be at the Wing Dome to eat chicken, sign autographs, and take photos with fans. Diners will be entered in a raffle to win prizes including a game-worn autographed Oniel Fisher Jersey and tickets to upcoming Sounders matches.
7. SheHikes: Tips and Tricks for Backpacking as a Female
Women backpackers face unique challenges on (and off) the trails, most of which affect their safety—at this event, enjoy beer and cider while learning about "the importance of the 10 essentials as well as women-specific tips for gear, hygiene, and traveling safely / responsibly."
8. Sweet Fest
Munch on free Molly Moon's ice cream and Mighty O Donuts (and make origami boats!) at this event where attendees can learn about and fundraise for a pretty little public space, the proposed Mighty-O Community Parklet.
9. Yoni & Geti (Why? and Serengeti) with Special Explosion
Apex purveyors of mid-late '00s indie experimentation, Yoni Wolf and David Cohn provide their combined project talents of Why? and Serengeti for a true marriage of dangled lyricism over contemplative plinking, with weird-out visuals to boot. Prepare for a reinvention.
WEDNESDAY
10. Astronomy on Tap Seattle: July Planetarium Shows
This one-of-a-kind Astronomy on Tap event features extra astronomy and, unfortunately, no beer. They're offering two planetarium shows at the UW Planetarium (on the second floor of the Physics and Astronomy building) with Kristen Garofali and Brett Morris.
11. Chamber Music in the Park
Members of the Seattle Chamber Music Society will perform string octet selections by Mendelssohn and Shostakovich out in the open for all to enjoy.
12. Design Disruptors
Learn about the design approaches of companies who are "disrupt[ing] billion dollar industries" at this film screening of Design Disruptors, a documentary produced by InVision.
13. Howard the Duck in Quacklevision
This crazy 1986 sci-fi flick, featuring one of the first Marvel characters in a big-screen movie, is about a human-sized duck accidentally brought to Earth. If that's not weird enough, snarky texts from the audience will be projected on screen, and Panel Jumper, a web series devoted to comic book history, will provide a special introduction to the film.
14. Improv's Greatest Hits
Four groups of improvisers—Mr. Snake, East Side Story, Powdered Cat and Not Yet Rated—will team up for this 21+ night to produce "improv magic."
15. Let live., Seahaven, Silver Snakes, Night Verses
The soul pop-punx of Letlive. bring their intentional thrash to El Corazon, with Seahaven, Silver Snakes, and Night Verses.
16. Lure Party and Pokemon Contest
Come to the Mercury for geeky music, three accessible Pokestops (with lots of lures), and prizes for the winner of their "Pokemon challenge." Remember: no blue jeans, and pricing varies based on lady-ness and whether or not you're playing Pokemon (players get a $2 discount).
17. Outlander Kitchen at Book Larder
Outlander fans: Pick up your copy of Theresa Carle-Sanders' cookbook, Outlander Kitchen: The Official Outlander Companion Cookbook. Recipes include authentic meals from "postwar Britain to eighteenth century Scotland and France." This night will include a discussion, book signing, and cooking demonstration.
18. Saving Pacific Northwest Oysters
Tonight's edition of the Ada's Technical Books' monthly climate change lecture will feature UW professor Parker MacCready, the "physical oceanographer who led a team to develop the use of 'big data' to forecast the ocean chemistry of waters entering shellfish growing areas," who will discuss how this process can help oysters, the shellfish industry, salmon fishers, kayakers, and the tracking of oil spills.
19. Spinurn
Watch people spin burning batons/objects (or participate yourself, but read the guidelines first) at beautiful Gas Works park.
20. Why Do We Care About Measuring Proteins?
This lecture is part of a public series hosted by the University of Washington Department of Genome Sciences—they assume no background in genetics or biology, and aim to make their discussions accessible and interesting to all. Plus, they'll have refreshments afterwards, outside the auditorium. This week, Dr. Michael MacCoss will explore "the search for the panacea of robust protein measurement" and ask: why do we care about measuring proteins?
THURSDAY
21. 20xx, Sculptures, Dead Spells
Electronic jams, sounds of death, and goth garage tunes from 20xx, Sculptures, and Dead Spells at Black Lodge.
22. Beyond the Woods, Pink Octopus, Wood Knot
Beyond the Woods experiments live at the Highline with their style of instrumental progressive metal, with Pink Octopus, and Wood Knot.
23. The Glossary: Perspectives Defined by Art
A night of artistic/social healing featuring artists who specialize in dance, spoken word, music, and visual art, tackling ideas of "Resilience," "Fortitude," and "Esteem," presented by STG and ajusticenetwork as part of a free summer series at the Neptune.
24. Henry Mansfield & The Bearded Scooter Gang
A night of eclectic Mercer Island piano pop-rock from Henry Mansfield and the Bearded Scooter Gang at the Skylark.
25. Kobe Your Quizmuenster: A Bob's Burgers Quiz
Geeks Who Drink will host this Bob's Burgers-themed quiz night, covering all six seasons (but focusing on the first five). They add: "Be careful not to study anything non-cannonical. We're looking at you, Archer crossover episode.”
26. The Manhattan Transfer
Vocal Group Hall of Famers The Manhattan Transfer remains a jazz and pop cornerstone band. The first group to win Grammy Awards in both Pop and Jazz categories in the same year, they went on to receive an additional 12 Grammy nominations for their album Vocalese in 1985, which made it second only to Michael Jackson’s Thriller as most nominated album in one year, and cemented the group’s status as an essential and innovative vocal group in popular music history. (Through Sunday)
27. Memento Mori
Professor Vanderbeck presents this "hour-long surreal journey exploring the themes of madness and immortality," which he'll present while surrounded by the creepy objects and artifacts at the Spooked in Seattle museum.
28. Movie Night with SEA-PAH
The Seattle Pups and Handlers Association (SEA-PAH) is a group that is devoted to the human-pup, and those that love them, and they'll be hosting a movie night at Doghouse Leathers. Feel free to bring some of your favorite films to contribute to the evening, along with blankets and pillows to share.
29. Pokemon Go: Happy Hour Pokewalk in Chinatown-International District
Cheap food, booze, and Pokemon lures—what more could you ask for? Take a walk around the ID, catch some creatures, and enjoy snacks/drinks during this extended happy hour.
30. QueerFest!
QueerFest! is a weekend of shows at the Pocket Theater by queer performers. Thursday will feature Look Both Ways and Mac McGregor, Friday will bring in The Gay Uncle and Close Friends, and on Saturday, A Necessary Sadness and Pizza Crush and Friends will perform. (Through Saturday)
31. Seattle Transmedia and Independent Film Festival
STIFF will spend a weekend celebrating digital storytelling, with a program exploring the cultural importance of technology and highlighting work created specifically for digital platforms—including video games, feature films, and virtual reality. They'll even have a transmedia gallery featuring 360 video, interactive content, gaming, and video art (with free entry). (Through Sunday)
32. Thirsty Thursday Board Game Night
This board game night—with options including Battleship, Cards Against Humanity, and Exploding Kittens—is sponsored by Deschutes and offers tons of "swag prizes." Free to play!
33. Toys Teen Night
In conjunction with MOHAI's Toys of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s exhibit, teens are invited to this evening that will have an oversized game tournament, a station for creating LEGO mini-figures, a Toys selfie station, and games from Card Kingdom.
34. Twisted Flicks: Tobor the Great
Jet City Improv comedians will provide a "live re-dubbing" of this 1954 movie about a boy and his robot friend. (Through Saturday)
35. Twister Beach
The newest musical cabaret from Nordo's Culinarium, Twister Beach features beach games, sing-a-longs, tropical food, tiki drinks, squirt guns, and a story about the "dangers of a hasty seaside vacation." (Through Sunday)
36. Un_self_ish: The Mirror Project
Look into the mirror and see what others see. This unique community gathering will include over 100 mirrors customized by local artists with "passions and truths" set up for your viewing.
37. Wedding Band
Enjoy the sweet bliss of matrimony with the best wedding reception tunes out there, courtesy of new local supergroup Wedding Band (Dejha Colantuono, Michael Lee, Dan Paulus, Brian Yeager, and Eric Weinberg).
38. Yo Yo Yoga: Thursdays on the Deck with Audrey Dohm and Recess
Yo Yo Yoga is back and better than ever, with a special event on the roof deck of the Monkey Loft every Thursday night til September. Join instructor Audrey Dohm for a 90 minute yoga flow with a live DJ set by Recess. The unofficial series theme is "Summertime" so get ready to emerge from your apartment hibernation and stretch out into this season's sunshine.
39. Zealandia
Local freak rock dance punks Zealandia hit the Substation stage, with Kool Stuff Katie (up from Portland), and Vigilante Santos.
FRIDAY
40. American Experience: The Boys of ‘36
KCTS 9 presents this preview screening of American Experience: The Boys of '36, a film inspired by Daniel James Brown’s The Boys in the Boat, and focusing on the story of the University of Washington rowing team winning gold at the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany.
41. The Angry Beaver Grand Re-Opening
Seattle's only (and thus, greatest) hockey bar celebrates its grand re-opening with live music from the Kennedy Brothers, drink specials, and plenty of poutine to warm even the coldest of mounties.
42. Artful Dodger Tattoo & Comics Anniversary Party
Celebrate six whole years of tattoo and comic brilliance from Artful Dodger with their big anniversary party at Fred Wildlife, with drink specials, DJ'd dance spots, an art raffle by their in-house tattoo artists, and slices from Sizzle Pie to go around.
43. Babraham Lincoln with Guests
Wayne's World cover band Babraham Lincoln sucks & cuts through their greatest hits at the Blue Moon, with special guests Stay Tuned (who will play classic movie tunes) and Hostile Makeover USA (playing punk covers "most likely to rock your face off").
44. Black Lodge Burlesque
The "bizarre and beautiful" Portland cabaret group Black Lodge Burlesque, who profess an affinity for the works of David Lynch, promise a show featuring "the sultry tease of Audrey Horne, the freakish dance of Frank Booth, a young woman wrapped in plastic, and a dancing sandworm all in one show."
45. Comeback
Previously known as the longest running Capitol Hill indie queer dance party, Comeback returns in our time of need with new music and old soul to bring the house down. Prep your loins for a night of hot queer action with famed DJs Colby B, Mister Sister, Daddi Dario, and your beautiful host Adè, with photo booth handling by sweet Rio.
46. The Doubleclicks
Enjoy an all-ages show at Wayward Coffeehouse with The Doubleclicks, a Portland group touring the country on a ticket of dinosaur-loving, banana-suit-wearing, sister duo geek-comedy music.
47. Garden Party: An Evening for the Senses
This event will make you forget that you are in Seattle and transport you to Japan for one night only. As the "ethereal sound of harp and bamboo flute [floats] across the pond," you can enjoy sake, beer, and wine tastings, as well as traditional Japanese cuisine. There will be live performances by Gary Stroutsos, Monica Schley, and Kaoru Okumura. All proceeds go to maintaining the delightful little haven that is the Seattle Japanese Garden.
48. An Evening with Richard Cheese & Lounge Against The Machine
This puntastic band describes their music as "Sinatra singing Radiohead," and claim to perform "swingin' Vegas versions of rock and rap songs" and "swankify" Top 40 hits.
49. Graphic ReMasters
Inspired by the Graphic Masters show at the Seattle Art Museum, which presents famous etchings from big-name artists like R. Crumb, Goya, and Rembrandt, this show will instead present pieces from local artists who are "riffing on" the work of the masters, for an overall goal of challenging the distinction between highbrow and lowbrow art.
50. HEY LADY
This is the inaugural group show for HEY LADY, a feminist collaborative art quarterly run by Regina Schilling, each issue of which focuses on one woman from the past. For issue #5, they're highlighting musician Sister Rosetta Tharpe, and presenting an exhibit featuring original artwork from over 100 participants. (All of the art is for sale!) The opening reception promises cold beer, bubbly, snacks, and the chance to chat with some of the art-makers. (Through Sunday)
51. Los Caballos Locos, Paul Lynde Fan Club
Los Caballos Locos, a Neil Young and Crazy Horse tribute band, ride again at Slim's with the Paul Lynde Fan Club.
52. Pioneer Square Tour: Wilderness to Metropolis
This walking tour from the Seattle Architecture Foundation will teach you about the complicated history of Pioneer Square, including the Gold Rush, the Great Fire, and today's boom of restaurants and community groups.
53. Radiant Human
Created by visual artist Christina Lonsdale, this project combines "New Age self-discovery" with "New Media self(ie)-actualization" in a roving photography lab intended to capture you and your aura. You can also find Radiant Human at Moorea Seal on July 30 and 31.
54. Terra Incognita
Explore unknown territory, loss, and addiction through the lives of Nadia (a recovering alcoholic) and Sheila (an aging social worker) in this play at Annex Theatre, written by Benjamin Benne and directed by Pilar O’Connell. (Through Saturday)
55. VHS Über Alles Presents: Kamillions
With the end of VHS in sight, come to this special screening of Kamillions (which is only available on VHS). Watch as a mad scientist opens a portal and accidentally releases a couple of shapeshifting creatures into a dinner party that his wife is throwing. Will they make it to dessert?
SATURDAY
56. 70th Annual Pacific Northwest Highland Games and Clan Gathering
Celebrate Scottish culture and heritage with Scottish food, music, and various other glimpses into Celtic life. There will be live performances throughout the night by Colin Grant-Adams, Men of Worth, Golden Bough, the Seattle Knights, and many more, plus demonstrations of traditional Scottish dancing, animals at the Celtic Kennel and Scottish Farm, beer at the Rampant Lion Pub and Tilted Kilt Pub, and various vendors on hand. (Through Sunday)
57. A 6950 Dance Party with DoNormaal, Raven Matthews, Michete, DJ Reverend Dollars
Join the 6950 crew for an all-ages dance party at the Vera Project, with live sets from DoNormaal, Raven Matthews, Michete, and DJ Reverend Dollars.
58. Art in the Garden
The Ballard P-Patch is bringing back its Art in the Garden for the 15th year in a row. Take a trip to the onsite beer garden, participate in the silent auction or enjoy live music by Nomi, Megan Larson, Ben Henry, Folichon Cajuri Band, and Trash Panda. Grab a bite at the Spicy Papaya and Full tilt food trucks or buy a baked good at the bake sale. Proceeds go to maintaining and conserving the garden.
59. Daniel Halligan
Self-proclaimed sax-rap lothario Daniel Halligan takes on Columbia City Theater for his album release show.
60. Emerald City Black Pride: Black Light Party
This party invites the community to gather and celebrate LGBTQ people of color. The event invites everyone to "look back on the past year to not only remember our tragedies but also celebrate our victories." Join the celebration with complementary beer, coconut water, and great company.
61. Eunice Nahon: Mozart For A Cure
Chamber violinist Eunice Nahon, of the Northwest Symphony Orchestra, bands together with some musically inclined special guests to present an evening of classic works by Mozart, Bach, Piazzolla, and others. This event benefits the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and features curated selections including Bach’s Chaconne from Partita No. 2, Mozart’s Divertimento in F major, Piazzolla’s Spring, Saint-Saens’ Introduction, and Rondo’s Capriccioso.
62. An Evening with The Piano Guys
Four dads armed with pianos and camera phones have brought their eight hands of talent to the Internet, and now to Marymoor Park, with an evening of melded classical and pop hits.
63. Hogwarts Reunion
Reunite with other Harry Potter lovers looking to welcome the release of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with a bang. Elliott Bay will have a Sorting ceremony, House Cup Trivia, a costume contest (dress robes encouraged), live performances by Shakesbeerience (including a reading of the first ten minutes of the script, after the book is officially released at midnight), and, when the clock strikes 12, the chance to take home your very own copy of the book (better luck if you preorder). Hogsmeade-inspired food and drink from Little Oddfellows will also be available throughout the night.
64. Lucky Liquor's One Year Anniversary Party
Lucky Liquor celebrates one year alive, and one year closer to death, with a night of boogie punks dripping south Seattle and Oakland sleaze, with Sup All Night, Communist Eyes, Bad Tats, Tough Times, Butanna, and Terman Shanks.
65. Lusio: A Night to Awaken
A free, family-friendly, inviting evening of light, art, and sound, featuring multiple light installations, an ambient music showcase, and generally relaxing, immersive experiences.
66. Pacific Northwest Mushroom Festival
Calling all mushroom lovers! This fungi gathering will include all things shroom related. Activities include mushroom farm tours, a mushroom hunt, live music, food, booze, and cooking demos. (Through Sunday)
67. The Prince and Michael Experience with DJ Dave Paul
The ultimate tribute dance party for the angels among us, Prince and Michael Jackson. Music by DJ Dave Paul, all the way from San Francisco.
68. Psycho Sis
Nark Magazine's new passion project Psycho Sis begins as the DJ night equivalent of an art installation, with a vinyl-only set exploring the origins of sound, psych-rock, acid folk, internationally collected local music, ambient, shoegaze, and pieces from synth pioneers.
69. Save the Dilla Dance Party
Raise money for local food truck "The Killa Dilla" with a free breakfast dance party on the Monkey Loft rooftop, with a full brunch bar, full regular bar, and sets by Sean Majors, Pressha, HYDEF, and Meistro.
70. Sexploration
This all-day event features sex workshops, panels, parties, mingling and more—you'll design your own schedule and get to explore kinks/quirks you never knew you had (or wouldn't admit to until now).
71. Snohomish Hard Cider Festival
Head to Snohomish for this festival that celebrates makers and tasters alike. Tickets get you 10 3-oz tasting tokens (more can be purchased onsite if you just can't get enough!) brought to you by local Pacific Northwest cider makers.
72. The Sounds of Motown
For one night only, the Sounds of Motown showcase joins the soul and R&B talents of Dwayne D'Arby, Danielle Hayes, Zhanea June, Ivory Solomon, and Sarah Rim at Highway 99.
73. Summer at SAM
This day-long arts celebration, set against a gorgeous natural backdrop, offers activities including outdoor yoga and zumba, an interactive open studio session focused on indigo (and inspired by Mood Indigo: Textiles from Around the World), and a public tour of the Olympic Sculpture Park.
74. Summer Clothing Swap
People of all genders, ages, and sizes are invited to refresh their wardrobes and swap summer clothing at this event in Hillman City.
75. Tropical Thunder Islander Yacht Party
Let the Seattle dub scene blow you out of the water (heyooo!) with TROPICAL THUNDER, a "dubalicious" yacht party sure to get your motor running (sorry, we'll stop). The Islander Yacht will usher you around our beautiful network of waterways, as multiple DJs man the helm with dubstep, trap, and deep house spins all evening, performances by the Dubalicious Go Go dancers, and drink specials for every taste.
76. What the Float: Silent Disco
Defined as a "private dance party in public space," What The Float provides you with a headphone-sourced sonic experience that you allow to take you through the city, track by track. It's an interactive dance odyssey, that separates you from people while connecting you with landscape.
77. World Series of Fighting
The World Series of Fighting comes to Everett with two headlining events featured in this Mixed Martial Arts extravaganza, including the second championship rematch between reigning bantamweight Marlon Moraes and challenger Josh “Gentleman” Hill, and the world featherweight title fight and second showdown between Alexandre “Capitao” Almeida and Lance Palmer.
SUNDAY
78. '90s Baby Bash
Boogie down to music you probably didn't know was being released at the time because you were a zygote in the '90s, at this party for the whole damn decade. There will be special guest performances, and the upstairs bar is 21+, for those of you who were born after 1995.
79. The 420 Games
Buck stoner stereotypes at the 420 Games, where participants will compete in challenges of strength, endurance, and speed, like a 4.20 mile fun run through Magnuson Park. If the fun run and the Ricky Williams 40 yard dash aren't calling your name, they'll also have attractions including live reggae music from Pato Banton and a beer garden sponsored by Lagunitas.
80. Artist Home Summer Bonfire Series
Enjoy another year of free concerts on the beach with the Artist Home Summer Bonfire Series. Bring your own snacks, drinks, and cash for the artists.
81. An Evening with Mal DeFleur and Princess Charming
The lovely and elusive Mal DeFleur graces Chop Suey's stage for one night with Princess Charming for a soulful cabaret performance.
82. Glitter Beast: Jurassic Park
Haus of Glitter Beast slays through the ancient epochs of giant reptiles with their Jurassic Park throwdown, featuring performances of drag, opera, fetish, and more from Sparkle Leigh, Candy Warhol, Dominic Amora Black, Stephanie Graham, Jessica Paradisco, Caesar Hart, Becky Peterson, Queen Dan'l, Joshua Moore, and Butch Alice.
83. Harry Potter Book Release and Birthday Party
Recreate the adrenaline-filled Harry Potter book releases of your childhood (or your child's childhood) at University Book Store, with a day celebrating both Harry Potter's 36th birthday and the release of the new West End play Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. They'll have cookies, crafts, and games available all day—plus, at noon, a performance of the new play by theater troupe Hello, Earth, which will be followed by birthday cake.
84. Mulleady's Annual Block Party
Support your community by attending this block party at Mulleady's that features a whole afternoon of live music, dancing, food, games, beer, and a raffle, with proceeds from the event going to Mary's Place.
85. Pokemon Go: Capitol Hill Food Safari
Savor Seattle hosts this walking food tour of Capitol Hill with a Pokemon theme—you'll catch Pokemon along the way, learning about best practices for the game while eating food from six Capitol Hill restaurants and tasting hard apple cider.
86. Reaching Beyond the Veil
Medium Teotl Tonalli will host this group reading, where audience members will recieve "healing messages from the other side."
87. Zulu Park Jam
Bringing together DJing, breakdancing, emceeing, and graffiti art, the Park Jam serves as a hiphop community cornerstone. Enjoy live sets from Golden Alchemy, DoNormaal, DJs Seabefore and Riff-Raff, and live painting by Leo Shallot, JEAH, and They Drift.
Stranger (Than Usual) Things To Do comes out every week on Tuesday. To submit events to be considered, email us at calendar@thestranger.com.