Lakeside fireworks, fresh berries, transit update, Bellevue tech towers, banned books, a summer picnic, an more.
July 04, 2025
Happy Fourth of July, Eastside. You know the drill – grab your coffee (or whatever you sip in the morning), kick back, and let Eastside Buzz serve up everything you need to know for the weekend ahead:
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5K + parade 🎉
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Scavenger hunt 🕵️
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Firework shows 🎆
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Things to do 📆
Let’s get to it.
📰 In the news
Redmond extension drives growth: Sound Transit recorded a post-pandemic high of 3.2 million boardings in May after the 2 Line opened to Downtown Redmond on May 10th, marking an 11% month-over-month jump and a 42% rise over May 2019 — read the full report.
Bellevue tech towers sold: Meta and Snowflake’s Bellevue buildings were sold to global investors, marking a milestone for the Spring District’s mixed-use redevelopment — read more.
Rezoning sparks Wilburton makeover: The Bellevue City Council has adopted land use changes carving out four new mixed-use districts to bolster housing, jobs, and livability in Wilburton — get the details.
Compare rates for free: The average driver pays $175 a month on car insurance, but most of us are paying way too much. If it’s been a while since you shopped around, you’re likely part of that “most of us” — this comparison tool can save you hundreds.
Highlights this week
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State to buy new hybrid ferries
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WA forest health survey results are in
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New plan to protect wildlife on the road
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Firework fundraiser supports local food bank
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Banned books workshop, readings, & open mic
🫶 We got your back
Crunch time: When your stomach starts growling for something crispy, herby, and downright irresistible, Falafel Fresh whips up golden falafel that’ll have you reaching for extra tahini—and maybe a second pita—faster than you can say “chickpea bliss.”
Frankly fantastical franks: When you need a quick bite that packs a punch, What’sup Dog is the reigning champ of mustard, relish, and risk-it-all topping combos. Think loaded chili-cheese dogs with a dash of sriracha and pickled jalapeños—because sometimes comfort food needs a kick.
Up, up, and away: Party for Less has everything you need to keep your celebration floating high. From jumbo latex and foil balloons to streamers, plates, napkins, and even those sneaky confetti poppers, they’ve got the basics (and the bounce) to make any party pop.
Energy efficiency on a budget: New windows and doors may not seem glamorous, but they can deliver real savings — windows can reduce utility bills by 7-15% and doors by up to 35%. To sweeten the savings, Renewal by Andersen is offering $400 off per window and $850 off per door right now.
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📆 Eastside happenings
All events are subject to change without notice. Please check official event pages and social media for the most up to date information.
Today
🏃 Woodridge’s Annual 4th of July Celebration @ Norwood Village Park | Friday (7/4) at 8:30 am – Kick off America’s birthday with a community 5K fun run/walk through Norwood Village Park, then deck out your bike for a red-white-and-blue parade. Stick around for food trucks, live music, and slip-n-slide shenanigans under the summer sun.
🔍 Rara Richland Scavenger Hunt @ Novel Coffee and Teas | Friday (7/4) at 11 am – Who said coffee runs have to be boring? Rally your crew (kids and pups welcome!) for a clue-busting adventure that kicks off at Novel Coffee and Teas. You’ll decode wacky tasks, snap photo proof to your live host, and uncover Richland’s secret spots—by foot or by car, your choice. It’s like urban exploration meets comedy sketch, ideal for team bonding, birthdays, or anyone up for a Friday escapade.
🎆 Annual Lake Sammamish Fireworks Fundraiser @ Vasa Park Resort | Friday (7/4) at 9 pm – Support the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank with a donation that feeds kids all summer, then watch the sky ignite over South Lake Sammamish. Admission’s free after 6 pm, and your $150 gift provides eight meals—and unlocks a matching gift boost.
This weekend
🥕 Farmers Market @ Pickering Barn | Saturday (7/5) at 9 am – Stock up on farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handcrafted goodies as the Issaquah Farmers Market springs to life. Mingle with local growers, taste the season’s first berries, and snag one-of-a-kind crafts while wandering downtown’s scenic stalls. Pro tip: arrive early for the best heirlooms and live music.
🧸 Weekend Story Time @ Issaquah Library | Saturday (7/5) at 11:30 am – Gather the kiddos for whimsical tales, sing-along songs, and interactive fun at Issaquah Library’s Weekend Story Time. No registration required, but space fills fast, so cozy up early. Perfect for little ones and caregivers craving a morning of literary magic.
📖 Hello Beautiful @ Bellevue Botanical Gardens | Saturday (7/5) at 2:30 pm – Channel your inner Oprah as you tour the Trillium Garden, sip wine, and dissect Ann Napolitano’s emotional page-turner in a guided Great Books discussion. Enjoy light munchies and sparkling conversation under the summer sky, led by a trained facilitator who ensures every voice is heard. Warning: you may never look at family dynamics the same way again.
🎤 Market Stage @ Crossroads Bellevue Mall | Saturday (7/5) at 7 pm – Catch free live performances from local bands, dancers, and cultural acts on Crossroads’ Market Stage. Whether you’re vibing to smooth jazz, hip-hop beats, or traditional folk, there’s a groove for every listener—and no cover charge. Check the full schedule online and plan an evening of spontaneous discoveries.
🧺 Summer Picnic @ Newcastle Beach Park | Sunday (7/6) at 10 am – Tashi Delek! Celebrate the season Sherpa-style with a lakeside potluck hosted by the Northwest Sherpa Association. Pack your favorite dish, a blanket, and your sense of adventure for community vibes at Bellevue’s scenic shore. Menu details will drop soon, so start brainstorming your signature recipe now.
🧘 Floating Sound Bath Journey @ Be One Yoga Studio | Sunday (7/6) at 4 pm – Drift into sonic serenity cocooned in an aerial swing, where 360° vibrations rock you like a baby in a womb-like haven. Pre-registration (and payment) is required—no refunds and a $20 no-show fee keep the vibes exclusive. Expect gentle sways, deep resonance, and a meditative float that’s half concert, half spa treatment.
🎶 Live music & entertainment
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7/4 Market Street Dixieland Jazz Band @ Prohibition Cellars – 12 pm
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7/4 Puget SoundZ @ Prohibition Cellars – 6 pm
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7/4 Whisky Ridge @ Vino Bella Wine Bar – 7:30 pm
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7/5 Nick Mardon @ Chandler Reach – 4 pm
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7/5 Pink Martini and more @ Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery – 7:30 pm
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7/5 Whisky Ridge @ The Whiskey Mile – 9 pm
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7/6 Kurt Lindsay @ The Junction – 1 pm
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7/6 Karaoke @ Chelan Ridge Winery – 4:30 pm
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7/6 The Herding Cats @ The Lime – 8 pm
🏠️ Price Is Right – Eastside edition
How it works: We’re going to give you some facts about a home for sale, including a picture of the outside, the kitchen, and one additional room. Your job? Guess how much it’s listed for (preferably before you click to find out).
*This️ 👇️ could be your listing. Hit us up if you’ve got a home (or 12) to sell.
Lori Holden Scott & Connor Holden (John L. Scott, Inc.)
Former Street of Dreams showpiece got a 2019 glow-up that swapped cheese for sleek, curated textures and top-tier finishes. Soaring ceilings, sunlit galleries and that butler’s pantry whisper “fancy without the fuss” while the luxe primary suite feels more spa than snooze-fest.
Slide outside to a private 0.62-acre playground: built-in pool, shaded deck and secret ultra-private lane for entry-level covert operations. Five beds and five baths spread over 5,660 sq ft give even the in-laws room to roam—minus their usual complaints.
Make your guess, then (and only then)… see how much it costs →
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