Pike Place Market was established 114 years ago to sell produce, and by the 1960s it was almost lost forever. On October 23, the Market celebrates the 50e anniversary of the citizens’ initiative that saved Pike Place Market in 1971. And while you can still find farmers at the market, Pike Place has so much more to offer than salad.
The 50e The anniversary celebration will include live outdoor concerts and a screening of the new Market Rescue documentary film, but even on an ordinary day the market is bursting with art. The craft market and DownUnder shops are home to independent artists such as Jesse Link and Randy Loctor, and photographers such as John Wiley, while a rotating cast of street musicians perform at the market stations. Pike Place Market and the surrounding area are also home to exciting performance venues and curated galleries. Here are a few. (Check venue websites for event information and COVID-19 requirements.)
Art booth gallery
Originally founded in 1965 as part of the movement to save the market, Art Stall Gallery is a piece of market history. Today it operates as a cooperative of 14 professional women artists, all painters who live in the Puget Sound area.
97 Pike Street, artstallgallery.com
Can Can Culinary Cabaret
Can Can Culinary Cabaret Dinner Theater has moved to a new location in Post Alley. Local French-inspired menus in the new Dressing Room bistro and bar are a separate experience from the theater proper, which now has a second walkway. Running through the end of October, “Zombie Cheerleaders Return” brings camp horror to Can Can’s mix of dance, cabaret and burlesque. Proof of vaccination required to attend.
1530 ½ Post Alley, thecancan.com
Eighth generation
Presenting an ethical alternative to “Indigenous-inspired” art, Eighth Generation is an Indigenous-owned gallery and lifestyle brand. They sell blankets, jewelry, and prints, as well as more mundane items like socks and mugs. Everything in the store is designed by Indigenous artists who are fairly compensated.
93 Pike Street, eighthgeneration.com
Folio
Folio is a non-profit library and cultural center with a curated collection of 12,000 books. It hosts events ranging from concerts and parties to civic and literary discussions, in a mix of virtual and in-person formats. Next up online is a librarian-led author’s study of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novels on October 27 (open to everyone with discounted member rates); in person, there will be a Halloween party on the evening of October 30 (free for all with RSVP and proof of vaccination), with a trick or treat earlier in the day. The library and workspaces are open to members and temporary pass holders Monday through Friday.
93 Pike Street, #307, folioseattle.org
Mack Gallery
For over 30 years, the Mack Gallery on Western Avenue has featured contemporary art in glass, wood, paint and bronze by regional artists. The gallery regularly features works by well-known artists while also hosting special exhibitions exposing visitors to new faces on the regional art scene.
2100 Western Avenue, Suite A, gallerymack.com
Harris-Harvey Gallery
Harris Harvey Gallery (formerly Lisa Harris Gallery) has offered fine art paintings, prints, photographs and sculptures for 37 years. Celebrating its fifth year under the new name, the current exhibition, “An Anniversary Show”, runs until October 30. Reflecting the gallery’s regional commitment, the exhibit features over 30 West Coast artists.
1915 First Avenue, harrisharveygallery.com
Pink door
The Pink Door’s product-focused Italian-American menu is complemented by a variety of nightly entertainment. Expect to see Hopscotch combining jazz and tap on October 23; Brother John and the Surrogates inspired by Tom Waits on October 29; The Klein Party performing klezmer jazz on October 30; and aerial acrobats performing every Sunday. Proof of vaccination required for entry.
1919 Post Alley, thepinkdoor.net
Unexpected productions
Unexpected Productions is Seattle’s oldest improv theater company. Based on audience suggestions, current programs include “Campfire: Improvised Ghost Stories”, “Improv Happy Hour”, and the long-running “Seattle Theatresports” competition. The 41st The annual Seattle International Comedy Competition takes place on November 4. Proof of vaccination is required to attend.
1428 mail alley, productionsinattendues.org
Showcase
Located across First Avenue, the Showbox is technically not part of the Pike Place Market. But the 80-year-old venue is another much-loved Seattle institution and has itself been the subject of a recent preservation campaign. Upcoming shows include Wolf Alice, The Hu, Sleigh Bells and Strand of Oaks. Proof of vaccination is required to attend.
1426 First Ave., showboxpresents.com
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