Lake Union Park Opening

The Lake Union Park Opening was split into two events, a Green Tie Gala to celebrate the donors and dignitaries that made it happen and the open-to-the-public park opening––a sunrise to sunset, community wide celebration. The green tie gala was hosted at the park the night before the public opening. The outdoor, tented space was filled with live greenery, custom lighting and a live brass band. Guests wined, dined and danced in green accents and printed paper sashes designed by Michael Cepress Studio.

The public park opening felt like a true celebration of public space and the Seattle community. The day began with tai chi accompanied by live erhu music, a fun run around the park, an all-park saging by canoe performed by the United Indians of All Tribes, bagels on board the historic Virginia V, and a ribbon cutting and was followed by sunrise to sunset fitness field, craft area, kid zone, traditional salmon bake, and two performance stages. Guests delighted in surprises throughout the day like an all Seattle mascot parade and a daytime kid + adult dance party.

The Adventure School was invited to fly in a seaplane over the event to see the 25K people enjoying the day and it was a beautiful and proud moment. We worked together with upwards of 50 community groups, donors and civic organizations to make a day of fun for all of Seattle.

Gala photos shot by Jenny Jimenez

Park opening photos shot by Tonhya Kae Photography