Bellevue Parks & Community Services helps everyone in our community connect with one another and with nature through exceptional parks, recreation and cultural experiences that support healthy living and a vibrant community. | | Your fall adventures start here: Activity Guide out now! | | |
Fall is the perfect time to try something new!
Whether you want to learn an instrument, take a dance class, build strength in a fitness program, explore a new art medium or connect with others through a shared hobby, there's something for every age and interest.
The Fall Activity Guide is now available, with registration opening Aug. 4 for Bellevue residents and Aug. 11 for non-residents.
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Fall Into Fun returns this September with can't-miss events | |
Discover new experiences, meet new people and celebrate what makes Bellevue such a welcoming community during Fall Into Fun.
Throughout the month of September, enjoy free and low-cost activities for all ages at parks, community centers and recreation facilities across the city, including:
- Cultural performances and hands-on activities
- Fitness, yoga and dance classes
- Farm experiences
- Arts, crafts and creative workshops
- Family games and community gatherings
- Free swimming and skateboarding opportunities
While Welcoming Week takes place Sept. 10-19, Fall Into Fun extends those values throughout the entire month with Parks & Community Services.
| Culture and community at Bellevue International Festival | |
Celebrate the cultures, traditions and communities that make Bellevue unique at the Bellevue International Festival on Saturday, Aug. 8, from noon to 5 p.m. at Crossroads Park.
Now in its third year, this free community celebration features live music and dance performances, international food trucks, local vendors and family-friendly activities that showcase the diversity of Bellevue.
Whether you're discovering a new favorite food, enjoying cultural performances or connecting with community organizations, there's something for everyone to experience.
| | Save the date: community meeting for new BelRed park | | |
Bellevue is planning a new 8-acre neighborhood park in BelRed, and your ideas can help shape its future.
Join us on Thursday, Aug. 27, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Crossroads Community Center to explore conceptual design options, learn more about the project and share what you'd like to see in the new park.
The future park will expand access to parks and trails in the BelRed neighborhood and is funded through the voter-approved 2022 Parks & Open Space Levy. Whether you live, work or spend time in BelRed, your feedback will help guide the park's master plan.
| | Bellevue Botanical Garden | | |
Stroll, shop and discover during Arts in the Garden
Experience Bellevue Botanical Garden in a new way during Arts in the Garden, a three-day outdoor art show featuring more than 25 artists displaying handcrafted 3-D garden art throughout the garden's beautiful landscapes.
Event dates:
- Friday, Aug. 28: 2-5 p.m.
- New this year, garden members receive early access from noon-2 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 29: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Aug. 30: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Browse one-of-a-kind pieces available for purchase while enjoying live music and food trucks on Saturday and Sunday. This is a free event with artwork available for purchase. Event parking is $10.
| | Mark your calendar for these upcoming events | | |
In this interactive book talk, counselor, educator, and author Dr. Heidi Schreiber-Pan shares insights from her newly published book, "The Ground Beneath Our Work: Nature Informed Therapy and Care for a World in Need." Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, personal stories and the wisdom of the natural world, Heidi explores how our relationship with nature can support emotional well-being, resilience, and a deeper sense of belonging.
- Wednesday, Aug. 5 | 2-3:30 p.m.
- Free | drop-in, no registration required
- Bellevue Botanical Garden, The Aaron Education Center
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Event details at bellevuebotanical.org
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Go behind the scenes of Bellevue Botanical Garden's appearance on the nationally airing PBS series "Follow The Blooms." Watch the episode featuring the garden during the Slow Flowers Summit, then stay for a live Q&A with host and creator Katie Lila. Learn how flowers inspire creativity, build community and transform everyday spaces through storytelling and floral design.
- Tuesday, Aug. 11 | 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Free | drop-in, no registration required
- Bellevue Botanical Garden, The Aaron Education Center
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Event details at bellevuebotanical.org
| | Movies in the Park: popcorn and cinema under the stars | | |
Grab a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars this summer. Downtown and Crossroads parks transform into open-air movie theaters with live entertainment, interactive activities, local vendors and family fun before the show.
Pre-movie entertainment begins at 7 p.m., and movies begin at dusk.
Downtown Park
Tuesday evenings through Aug. 18
- Aug. 4: "Zootopia" | Theme: National Night Out/First Responder's Night
- Aug. 11: "Lilo & Stitch" | Theme: Island Vibes Night
- Aug. 18: "How to Train Your Dragon" | Theme: Back to School Night
Crossroads Park
Thursday evenings, Aug. 6-Aug. 27
- Aug. 6: "Emperor's New Groove"
- Aug. 13: "Zootopia 2"
- Aug. 20: "Wicked"
- Aug. 27: "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"
For detailed event information, frequently asked questions and alerts for weather-related event changes, visit bellevueoutdoormovies.com.
| | Soak up summer at Bellevue's beach parks | |
Summer lifeguard schedule
Lifeguards will be on duty daily from noon-7 p.m. at select Bellevue beach parks beginning June 27.
Through Sept. 7
- Chism Beach Park
- Meydenbauer Bay Park
- Newcastle Beach Park
Through Aug. 16
- Chesterfield Beach Park*
- Clyde Beach Park
- Enatai Beach Park
*Lifeguard staffing at Chesterfield Beach Park is limited due to lifeguard availability.
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Explore Mercer Slough by canoe
Experience Bellevue's largest remaining freshwater wetland from a unique perspective during Canoe Mercer Slough, a guided paddling adventure led by Bellevue park rangers.
Starting at Enatai Beach Park, participants paddle through the winding waterways of Mercer Slough Nature Park while learning about local wildlife, wetland ecology and conservation efforts.
Trip highlights
- Spot herons, turtles and other wildlife
- Learn from Bellevue park rangers
- Explore areas not easily accessible on foot
- Enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience just minutes from the city
Upcoming dates
- Sundays: Aug. 9, 16, 23 and 30
- Ages 5+ | $20 per person
Pre-registration is required. Participants must be at least 5 years old and should be prepared to paddle approximately four miles over three hours.
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Annual maintenance closure
The Bellevue Aquatic Center will be closed for annual maintenance from Aug. 15 through Sept. 7.
The Aquatic Center will reopen on Sept. 8. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
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Nature, wildlife and the outdoors | From gentle family walks to sensory exploration, these ranger-led programs offer meaningful ways to connect with nature all month long. | |
Sensory Stroll
Slow down and explore the natural world through sight, sound and touch during this guided sensory walk. Participants take a short one-mile stroll designed to awaken the senses.
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Family-friendly walks and hikes
Lake Hills Greenbelt Ranger Walk
Take an easy one-mile walk and discover seasonal plants and wildlife along the trail.
Ranger-led Hike at Lewis Creek
Explore the natural and cultural history of the park while learning how to safely observe local wildlife.
Ranger-led Hike at Mercer Slough Nature Park
Walk through forested wetlands on shaded trails and boardwalks while discovering native plants and animals.
| Get outside with TRACKS Outdoor Programs | |
Explore new places and make summer unforgettable with TRACKS Outdoor Programs. From biking local trails to hiking and swimming, these camps help young adventurers build confidence, develop outdoor skills and connect with nature.
TRACKS Bike Camp
Hit the trails for a week of morning rides through Bellevue parks, trails and bike routes. This camp is perfect for confident young riders who can comfortably bike 3-5 miles and are ready to explore on two wheels. Bikes and helmets are available upon request.
- Monday-Friday, Aug. 17-21 | 9-11:30 a.m.
- Ages 10-13
- Lake Hills Park
TRACKS Hike and Swim Camp
Spend summer afternoons exploring local trails before cooling off with a swim at the beach. Campers will enjoy guided hikes, outdoor exploration and plenty of time to splash, play and connect with friends.
- Monday-Friday | 1-4 p.m.
- Aug. 10-14
- Aug. 17-21
- Ages 10-13
- Chism Beach Park
| | Bellevue Youth Theatre is a welcoming place where Bellevue youth ages 5 to 19 can explore the performing arts, build confidence and take the stage in front of live audiences. Families, older adults and volunteers are also encouraged to participate, helping create thoughtful, family-friendly productions that bring people together through storytelling. | |
The Jungle Book
Journey into the jungle with Mowgli, Baloo and all your favorite characters in Bellevue Youth Theatre's summer production of The Jungle Book. Filled with adventure, humor and energetic musical numbers, this family-friendly production brings Rudyard Kipling's classic story to life.
Showtimes:
- Friday, Aug. 7 | 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 8 | 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Aug. 9 | 2 p.m.
- Friday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 15 | 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Sunday, Aug. 16 | 2 p.m.
Each cast performs the same show. If you're planning to see a specific performer, please contact the Bellevue Youth Theatre Box Office to confirm their cast.
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Volunteer opportunities: life is never baa-ring at the farm
Vanilla, Espresso and Mocha may be the cutest part of Kelsey Creek Farm, but caring for three growing lambs is no small task.
Teen volunteers help with the daily work that keeps the farm running, from preparing feed and refreshing bedding to cleaning stalls and helping care for the animals. Young lambs are naturally curious and full of energy, so a clean, safe environment helps them stay healthy as they grow.
Along the way, volunteers learn plenty of fun facts, too:
- Lambs can recognize familiar faces, including the people who care for them.
- Lambs can gain about ½ pound a day during their first few months of life, which is why they need consistent nutrition and daily care.
- Sheep have nearly 300-degree vision thanks to their rectangular pupils, helping them keep an eye on their surroundings while grazing.
Kelsey Creek Farm offers a rewarding opportunity to gain hands-on experience, earn service hours and help care for some of Bellevue's favorite farm animals.
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From live music and story time to wildlife discoveries and historic experiences, there's always something happening at Kelsey Creek Farm. Explore these upcoming programs and events for all ages.
Enjoy stories, songs and outdoor fun with a children's librarian from the Bellevue Library in the farm's outdoor amphitheater.
- Tuesday, Aug. 4 | 10:30-11 a.m.
- Free for all ages
Start your day surrounded by nature with guided yoga, meditation and mindfulness. No experience necessary. Bring your own yoga mat.
Bring the family for outdoor concerts featuring music, storytelling and interactive fun.
- Wednesday, Aug. 12 | 11 a.m.-noon
- Free for all ages
Learn about Bellevue's bats from Bats Northwest, then head outside after dusk to observe these remarkable nighttime pollinators and insect hunters using a bat detector.
- Friday, Aug. 14 | 7:30-9:30 p.m.
- Free | Ages 14+
Step back to the 1880s through hands-on activities that bring Bellevue's early history to life. Presented by the Eastside Heritage Center in partnership with Bellevue Parks & Community Services.
- Saturday, Aug. 22 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Free for all ages
Stay connected with Kelsey Creek Farm all summer by exchanging letters with one of the farm's animal residents. Recommended for ages 4-10, but everyone is welcome.
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$5 sign-up fee for the animal of your choice
- Recommended for ages 4-10 but all are welcome
Teens can build leadership skills, earn community service hours and help create memorable camp experiences while working alongside Kelsey Creek Farm staff.
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Bellevue has a new outdoor art gallery!
Northwest Arts Center burst into color on July 29 as families and neighbors jumped into an afternoon of hands‑on creativity at Chalk Art Fest. Kids lined up for face painting, popsicles, temporary tattoos, bubbles and lawn games. A huge thank‑you to everyone who joined us for family fun and creativity.
| Highland Community Center | | Inclusive, welcoming and community-focused programs for all ages. | |
Aloha Picnic & Dance
Celebrate summer with an evening of good food, music and dancing at Highland Community Center's annual Aloha Picnic & Dance. Designed for teens and adults with intellectual disabilities, this welcoming event is a chance to connect with friends, enjoy a picnic dinner and dance the night away.
- Friday, Aug. 14 | 5-8:30 p.m.
- $10 resident | $12 non-resident
- Free for caregivers and parents
- Ages 16+
- Highland Community Center
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Connect with free programs all summer long
Beat the summer heat while enjoying games, conversation and relaxing activities. Whether you're looking to meet new people or enjoy a quiet afternoon, these free drop-in programs offer a welcoming place to unwind in a comfortable, air-conditioned space.
Explore cultures from around the world through hands-on crafts, games, music, dance and storytelling. Discover traditions from different countries, share experiences and connect with others in a fun, welcoming environment.
- Wednesday, Sept. 2 | 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- $10 resident | $12 non-resident
- Ages 50+
- Highland Community Center
Pull up a chair for coffee, conversation and classic games like carrom, cribbage and mahjong. Staff help welcome newcomers, get games started and create a fun, friendly atmosphere where it's easy to connect.
- Mondays & Tuesdays | 12:30-2:30 p.m.
- Free | Ages 18+
Take a break with coloring pages, crosswords, Sudoku, word searches and other paper-and-pencil activities. This self-guided drop-in is a relaxing way to stay engaged, recharge and enjoy the company of others at your own pace.
- Wednesdays & Thursdays | 12:30-2:30 p.m.
- Free | Ages 50+
| | Crossroads Community Center | | Looking for a new hobby, creative outlet or adventure this summer? Crossroads Community Center offers opportunities to build skills, meet new people and explore new interests through hands-on workshops, games and creative activities. | | |
Discover the rich traditions of Aztec dance with Nahui Ollin Tezcatlipocatl of Bellevue. Through vibrant movement, music and cultural expression, participants of all ages are invited to learn about this meaningful tradition in a welcoming setting.
- Wednesdays and Thursdays | 6-8 p.m.
- Free | Ages 5+
- Crossroads Community Center
| | North Bellevue Community Center | | From arts and crafts to sports, games and social activities, North Bellevue Community Center offers opportunities for all ages to learn new skills, stay active and connect this summer. | |
Trips & Tours
Discover new destinations without the hassle of driving. North Bellevue Community Center's Trips & Tours make it easy to explore the region, meet new people and enjoy memorable outings together.
Fiber Arts
Whether you're picking up knitting needles for the first time or have years of experience, the Bellevue Fiber Arts Club offers a welcoming place to create and connect. Explore knitting, crochet, sashiko, boro and other fiber arts while sharing ideas, learning new techniques and making new friends.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own projects, with supplies available as needed.
- Tuesday, Aug. 18 | 1-3 p.m.
- Free | Ages 18+
- North Bellevue Community Center
| | South Bellevue Community Center | |
Reach new heights at the Adventure Park
Ready for your next adventure? Bellevue Adventure Park offers exciting outdoor experiences for adventurers of all skill levels. Climb, zip and explore while building confidence, challenging yourself and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Choose your adventure:
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Aerial Park: Navigate 27 suspended obstacles, including cargo nets, barrels and swinging bridges.
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Climbing Wall: Test your skills on a 36-foot climbing wall with routes for both new and experienced climbers.
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Zipline Tour: Soar through the trees on seven zip lines and cross two suspension bridges high above the forest floor.
Can't decide? Purchase a combination pass and experience all three attractions in one visit. Bellevue Adventure Park also offers team-building experiences for schools, youth groups, families and organizations.
Reservations are required. Visit Bellevue Adventures to view availability, reserve your adventure and learn more about group programs.
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Drop-in sports
Stay active with flexible, drop-in options for all ages and skill levels.
| | Whether you're stepping on a skateboard for the first time or looking to build new skills, Bellevue Skate Park offers programs for all ages and experience levels. With expert instruction, a supportive environment and equipment available, it's a great place to learn, practice and have fun. | |
Skatepark Drop-in Sessions
Drop in and skate Tuesday through Saturday in a welcoming, all-ages environment. No registration required.
- Tuesdays-Friday | 2:15-4:30 p.m.
- Saturdays | noon-4:30 p.m.
- $8 Bellevue residents | $10 non-Bellevue residents
- All ages
Skateboards and safety equipment available at no additional cost. Monthly unlimited passes are available for $20 (Bellevue residents) or $22 (non-Bellevue residents) and must be purchased on-site.
The skate park is closed on City-observed holidays.
| | Join our team in Parks & Community Services | | Looking for a job that makes a difference? Bellevue’s Parks & Community Services team offers rewarding opportunities to serve the community, support inclusion and help people thrive. Whether you're passionate about recreation, customer service, youth programs or natural spaces, there’s a role for you. Join a team that values collaboration, compassion and community impact. Apply today! | | Bee-hind the scenes at Kelsey Creek Farm | | |
Behind the honey bee hives at Kelsey Creek Farm is Dave, a beekeeper with 15 years of experience helping colonies thrive. His work supports the health of the hives while giving visitors a closer look at the important role honey bees play in our environment.
Here are a few fascinating bee facts:
- A single frame from a hive can produce up to five pounds of honey.
- Honey bees flap their wings about 200 times per second, creating their familiar buzzing sound.
- During the height of summer, a queen bee can lay up to 2,000 eggs in a single day.
- Honey bees communicate through a "waggle dance" that tells other bees where to find flowers.
The next time you visit Kelsey Creek Farm, take a moment to watch the bees at work. Their daily efforts help support healthy gardens, farms and local ecosystems, proving that even the smallest pollinators can make a big impact.
| | Bellevue Family 4th marks biggest celebration yet | | |
Thank you for making this year's Bellevue Family 4th our biggest celebration yet!
Nearly 70,000 people gathered at Downtown Park for an unforgettable evening of live music, family activities, delicious food and a spectacular fireworks finale, setting a new attendance record for the event.
A special thank you to our co-producer, the Bellevue Downtown Association, as well as the performers, vendors, volunteers, staff and community partners whose hard work made this annual tradition possible. We're grateful to everyone who celebrated with us and look forward to seeing you again next year.
| | Where will you play today? | | Bellevue: a city in a park | | |
Bellevue is truly a city in a park with more than 2,700 acres of parks and open space and over 80 miles of trails winding throughout the city. Parks & Community Services offers programs tailored for every age, including aquatics, arts, sports, nature and more.
Learn more about Bellevue’s parks and programs at BellevueWA.gov/parks.
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Bellevue City Hall
450 110th Ave. NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
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| Did you find this newsletter helpful and informative? | | | | |
For alternate formats, interpreters, or reasonable modification requests please phone at least 48 hours in advance 425-452-6885 (voice) or email Parksweb@BellevueWA.gov. For complaints regarding modifications, contact the City of Bellevue ADA, Title VI, and Equal Opportunity Officer at ADATitleVI@bellevuewa.gov.
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