Ballard Seafood Festival Returns for it’s 47th Year!

Ballard SeafoodFest is an annual festival held in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, Washington. The festival’s origins can be traced back to 1971 when leaders from Ballard’s industrial and fishing community joined forces with the Ballard Elks to start SeafoodFest to promote the neighborhood’s fishing industry and draw attention to the area’s Scandinavian heritage. The event began as a two-hour barbecue and has since grown into a highly anticipated event that draws thousands of visitors yearly. The festival has become a beloved summer tradition for locals and visitors alike.

With thousands of visitors it is no small effort to put on this wonderful event. If you’re looking for a great way to make a difference, and meet other friendly, Ballard-loving people, join our crew as a Deck Hand (aka volunteer)! Every volunteer shift comes with a free salmon BBQ dinner, and your hours count towards community service requirements. Interested in volunteering at 2023 SeafoodFest? Click the button below to sign up for 2023 volunteer shifts! Have questions? Email our volunteer coordinator Wren Wilson.