Our arts critics have already recommended 29 great things to do this week and our music critics have picked the 18 best music shows, but there are still lots more events happening. To prevent some of the quirkier and more extraordinary ones from slipping through the cracks, we've compiled them hereâfrom a chat with the ghost of Sam Kinison to The Devil's Circus: A Carnival Cabaret, and from Strawberry Theatre Workshop's Beatleconcert to the Witches Psychic Faire & Pop-Up Market. For even more options this week, check out our Fourth of July calendar and our complete Things To Do calendar.
Found something you like and don't want to forget about it later? Click "Save Event" on any of the linked events below to add it to your own private list.
Jump to: Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday
Note: Certain recurring events may be affected by the holiday; double-check event websites to be sure.
- '90s Trivia Night
Map Theatre will test you on the ever-prevalent decade of flannels and body glitter with 50 questions about '90s pop culture, sports, and more. - Elks Temple History Pub: The Maury Island Incident
Any sci-fi TV show set in Washington will confirm that the Pacific Northwest is a hotbed of extraterrestrial activity. If you're not convinced, maybe this documentary about local UFO sightings reported in real life will change your mind. PERFORMANCE
- Gothic Barbie Ship Wreck'd
Wear your spookiest beach look to a dance party and drag show with Gothic Barbie Drag Haus. You can also sip drink specials and get your fortune read by Psyche Splitz. - A Tale of Two Cities
What the Dickens?? In Everett Quinton's 1989 Obie Award-winning show, a novice drag queen saddled with an abandoned squalling baby acts out the entirety of the famous novel about the French revolution. This 21+ Mamches Production stars Michael Oaks and is directed by Susan Finque. READINGS & TALKS
- Andrea Dunlop: We Came Here to Forget
Andrea Dunlop tells the story of an Olympic skier who escapes her life for a new one in Buenos Aires in her novel We Came Here to Forget. Hear her read. - Joshua A. Douglas: Vote for US
Joshua A. Douglas, a U.S. election law expert, will lift your spirits by talking about current efforts being taken to make our voting system more "accessible, reliable, and effective."Â - This is Gay Porn
Porn performer Trenton Ducato, sex therapist Ash Anthony, and psychologist and researcher Kimberly Nelson will gather for a discussion on the evolution of gay male porn.TUESDAY-FRIDAY
VISUAL ART
- Efflorescence: Science Art
Discover the gorgeously precise work of UW's Certificate in Natural Science Illustration graduating students, who, according to promotional materials, believe that "knowledge should be intentional, accessible, and inclusive, allowing for the integration of new ideas and perspectives in science and technology."
Closing FridayTUESDAY-SATURDAY
VISUAL ART
- Kim Bruce and Ava Roth: Human Nature
Two very different Canadian contemporary artists will show sculptures and paintings side by side.
Closing SaturdayTUESDAY-SUNDAY
VISUAL ART
- Annie Perkins-Rosenberg: Day and Night of the Soul
Local artist and healer Annie Perkins-Rosenburg makes nature-inspired, mystical drawings with pen, ink, gouache, and human hair. According to her, these images emerged from "trials, paranoia, pain, healing and learning."
Closing SundayWEDNESDAY
FILM
- Hecklevision: Independence Day
Mock the 1996 alien invasion movie starring Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum as much as you wantâyour snarky texts will pop up on screen. FOOD & DRINK
- Doughnites: Ice Cream Doagies
The humble hoagie gets transformed into a frozen dessert treat with the invention of the "doagie," Side Hustle Coffee & Doughnut's latest ice cream-filled doughnut creation. - Independents' Day 2019
Honor Independence Day by sipping independently crafted brews from Brothers Cascadia Brewing, Jellyfish Brewing Company, Rooftop Brewing Company, Lucky Envelope Brewing, and more. GEEK
- Harry Potter Trivia
Study up on Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (the book and the movie) and prepare to answer 70 questions to the best of your ability at this trivia night. MUSIC
- American Cheez with the Loose Heels
Cut loose with a spread of Saltines, Kraft singles, cheap beer, and country covers from the Loose Heels at this early Fourth of July shindig. - Red, White, & Bollywood Jai Ho! Party
Celebrate cultural diversity at this Bollywood-centric pre-Fourth of July party. - World Beat Night: Rhythms from Black Panther
Hear two sets of West African, Afro jazz, and world beat music from Senegalese drummer Massamba Diop, who contributed to the Black Panther soundtrack. PERFORMANCE
- Drag + Ballot Drop
Professional and amateur drag performersâincluding Irene DuBois, Anne Tifa, and Voodoo Nightshadeâwill sing and dance to get you excited about voting (you can register onsite). READINGS & TALKS
- Bad Date Storytelling
Hear speakers share the gruesome details of their very worst datesâfor this installment, storytellers will focus specifically on embarrassing and/or memorable moments betwixt the sheetsâand maybe recount one of your own weird, funny romantic misadventures.WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY
VISUAL ART
- Free Radicals
This exhibition is a response to the Victorian Radicals show, presenting portraits of "pop stars, celebrities," and, less expectedly, "unknown Etruscan citizens." See work by John Armstrong, Larry Calkins, Troy Gua, Curt Labitzke, Ruthie V., and Laura Van Horne.
Closing SundayTHURSDAY
FOURTH OF JULY
- Sky High 4th of July
Peep the Lake Union fireworks from high in the air while you tuck into classic American fare like hot dogs and wings, buffalo chicken pizza, and "Fire Cracker âMerica Cake."
MUSIC
- Black Book in the Park: Chris Lake, Justin Martin, Destructo
Dance all day long to live electronic DJs, including Chris Lake, Justin Martin, and Destructo.ÂFRIDAY
COMEDY
- Fear Prov Friday
Improvisers will reveal which elements of the craft freak them out the mostâlike singing or performing scenes in reverseâbefore facing their fears onstage in front of a supportive audience. That means lots of clapping and cheering are in order on your part. - Fix Your Shit! with the Ghost of Sam Kinison
Sam Kinisonâyou know, the stand-up comedian who died in 1992âwill appear in his ghostly form to tell you everything you need to know about the afterlife, joined by a gaggle of his equally deceased celebrity friends. - It Takes Two: Comedy Improv + Daytime Talkshow
Comedy duo Bad Breath and friends will put on an improv show in daytime talk show format. FILM
- Meaningful Movies: Unlocking the Cage
Brush up on your animal rights knowledge with this documentary about Steven Wise, who "tries to break down the legal wall that separates animals [elephants, dolphins, etc.] from humans." MUSIC
- The Golden Road Performs Grateful Dead's "Reckoning"
Grateful Dead community musician tribute act the Golden Road will headline with a performance of the Grateful Dead's seminal album Reckoning. - Rouge French Cabaret!
Get the most out of your French dining experience by enjoying tableside performances of songs by Edith Piaf, Cole Porter, and other such favorites by Parisian-style cabaret troupe Rouge, led by vocalist Janet Elle Rayor. PARTIES & NIGHTLIFE
- Nunderwater Pool Party
The sexy bears and righteous drag nuns of XL Bears and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will throw an epic pool party. PERFORMANCE
- The All-American Magic Show
Magician and hypnotist Zurbano will impress you skeptics with her mind reading, math magic, and science tricks. - The Devil's Circus: A Carnival Cabaret
Thrill to a night of "tigers, clowns and pasties" courtesy of local burlesque dancers from the Devil's Advocate, plus special guests Cherry Manhattan and Jenny Penny. Come early for games, cotton candy, a raffle, and even a kissing booth! READINGS & TALKS
- Jay Wexler: Our Non-Christian Nation
If you're sympathetic to the modern Satanic Temple and their belief in a secular government, or if you're generally fed up with the prevalence of Christianity in our courthouses, you'll enjoy hearing from Jay Wexler, author of Our Non-Christian Nation: How Atheists, Satanists, Pagans, and Others are Demanding Their Rightful Place in Public Life.FRIDAY-SATURDAY
COMEDY
- Thomas Nichols, Bo Johnson, Manny Martin
Texas comic Thomas Nichols will headline in Seattle with local support from Bo Johnson and Manny Martin. MUSIC
- Beatleconcert
After their first few years of fameâin which they packed in three world toursâthe Beatles released some of their most famous songs from albums like Rubber Soul and the White Album without ever playing them live. In this special Fourth of July weekend run, the Strawberry Theatre Workshop will pay tribute to the songs the British band never played in front of an audience. VISUAL ART
- Summer Reflections: Group Exhibition of Gallery Artists
Member artists, working in paint, collage, photography, printmaking, and mixed media, exult in the beauties of summer. Discover pieces by Emily Wood, Peter de Lory, Gregg Laananen, Terry Furchgott, Lois Silver, Richard Hutter, Karen Kosoglad, Kim Osgood, David W Simpson, Lisa Snow Lady, and others.
Opening FridayFRIDAY-SUNDAY
PERFORMANCE
- Bat-Hamlet
Pop culture vigilantism meets Shakespearean existentialism in Fern Shakespeare's tale of Bat-Hamlet, the evil King Jester, and vengeance. - The Champagne Widow
Opal Peachey and Annastasia Workman's brand-new musical, paired with a four-course meal by Erin Brindley and a champagne flight, should be a tasty summer treat. Peachey will star as the quintessential "Champagne Widow," introducing you to Veuve Clicquot, Veuve Pommery, Veuve Bollinger, and Veuve Laurent-Perrier and their indomitably bubbly spirits as they go into the champagne business.SATURDAY
COMEDY
- Beyond The Tippe: Comedy Showcase and Open Mic
Chelsea Tolle will host this installment of "Beacon Hill's second favorite comedy show" and open mic. - Hot Seat
Enjoy stand-up and probing interviews with host Erin Ingle, Ky Krebs, Tin Lorica, and Natalie Holt. COMMUNITY
- Seafair Pirates Landing
Swashbuckling buccaneers will convene on Alki Beach from all seven seas (true story) for this signature Seafair event, which comes complete with food vendors, exhibitors, kids' rides, and a pirate look-alike contest. - Tanabata Star Festival
The Tanabata Star Festival celebrates the meeting of the deities Orihime (represented by the star Vega) and Hikoboshi (represented by the star Altair). Spend the day learning more about the tradition by making crafts, writing wishes, watching a Taiko performance, and more. GEEK
- Harry Potter Summer Trivia!
Do you know the most about Harry Potter? Prove it at this trivia night to win prizes. Costumes are encouraged. MUSIC
- '80s vs '90s with DJ Indica Jones, Wanz, #all4doras
DJ Indica Jones, DJ Wanz, and boy band tribute #ALL4DORAS will play '80s and '90s tracks for you to dance to. - 50 Shades of House
Bust out your leather harnesses and other such fetish wear for a sexy party with DJs Big Boppa and Alfonso Tan, plus a "freak show" performance by Vikatolia Marie Palepale and Chase Entails. - Halloween in July
If you're seeking respite from sunshine and snow cones, fast forward to October with spooky sets from local bands Trash Palace, Sweet Creature, Izaac Mellow, and Rat Paws. - The Seattle Summer Music Games
Hosted by Washington State's drum and bugle corps, the Seattle Cascades, this competition pits Drum Corps International teams against each other. PERFORMANCE
- Bellydance Intersections
Gyongyi Stuber will perform a blend of ballet, Hungarian folk dancing, belly dancing, and more diverse styles. - The Great Catsby: A Pole Catbaret
Pole dancers will swivel, meow, and hiss in a feline fashion. - Huraiti Mana First Annual Fa'aori
Huraiti (meaning "skilled dancers" in Tahitian) from Washington State will perform at this celebration of Polynesian culture. In addition, you can look forward to tasty food from Koloa Kreations Catering, vendors, a palm-leaf weaving workshop, and more. - PRIDE Drag Queen Bingo for Lifelong
Visage "Legs" LaRue will host a night of bingo to benefit Lifelong. READINGS & TALKS
- Polyglamorous: A Queer Momâs Misadventures and Lessons in Non-Monogamy
Robin Beatch, author of Call Me Holly: My Years on the Pole, returns with her account of life as a queer, non-monogamous mom. SHOPPING
- Bunch-A-Scrunch Soirée
Scrunchy brand Bunch-a-Scrunch will celebrate their first year of life by providing your reckless strands with as many scrunchies as you desire. They'll also be hosting over 30 other non-scrunchy vendors.SUNDAY
COMMUNITY
- Where's Waldo? At the Market!
Eagle-eyed participants can hunt for the notoriously elusive figure of children's-book fame hidden among the throng of farmers market patrons to earn a stamp for Secret Garden Books's Summer Passport program. To make the challenge even harder, shoppers are encouraged to break out their red-and-white striped shirts, beanies, and jeans and other Waldo-like attire. FOOD & DRINK
- Chicken & Waffles: A Lowercase Brewing/Sisters & Brothers Collaboration Brunch
Brunch on waffles made with repurposed spent grain and Extra Special Bitter Ale maple syrup from Lowercase Brewing accompanied by the spicy, Guy-Fieri-approved Nashville-style hot chicken tenders of Sisters and Brothers, with a Mexican Lager michelada, Witbier mimosa, or beer on tap to quench your thirst. PERFORMANCE
- Life's a Beach: Luau & Summer Party
Dress in your sunniest getup and party with Queen Andrew Scott over drink specials, pork sliders, and Asian sticky wings at this tropical Sunday Funday. READINGS & TALKS
- Storytelling Series: Paul Chiyokten Wagner
Bring a notebook and a writing tool and join local storyteller Paul Chiyokten Wagner by the river for a nature-writing workshop. SHOPPING
- 2nd Annual Witches Psychic Faire & Pop-Up Market
Get all your sartorial and metaphysical needs met from local vendors like Indian Summer, Rose Alchemista, and Emerald Comics Distro at this pop-up market and psychic fair. - Macabre Market
Revel in the dark side of July by shopping from witchy vendors such as Kinky Bricks, Panorandom, Cruor Creations, Miniature Wytche Tarot, and the Scarlet Crow. VISUAL ART
- Andrew Lamb Schultz, Marcus Wilson, Christine Lee
Schultz and Wilson's drawings, paintings, prints, and collages, collected in show called Deviant/Divine, will "make you laugh, cry, sigh, puke, and purr," while Christine Lee reveals sexy, body-positive photos.
Closing Sunday
