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Salmon Waves by Paul Sorkin at the Fish Ladder

THINGS TO DO

Part urban, part natural, Ballard offers a unique mix of attractions. Step back in time on a self-guided walking tour of the Ballard Avenue Landmark District. Learn about our cultural roots at the Nordic Heritage Museum or the Syttende Mai celebration (May 17), Tivoli/Viking Days (early July) or Yulefest ( late November). Enjoy music at one of Ballard's well-known venues or at the twice-annual Ballard Jazz Festival. Experience the arts during Second Saturday ArtWalks.

Maritime vessels in the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

View the working waterfront from the 24th Street Dock. At the Hiram Chittenden Locks watch boats go through the ship canal, see salmon jump the fish ladder or explore the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens with over 500 species from around the world. Play at the beach, launch your kayak or take a spin in the world-class skate bowl in Ballard Commons Park. For some rest, try Bergen Place Park, a tribute to our cultural heritage.

Ballard Sunday Farmers' Market

Special Events
Special events add even more fun. SeafoodFest (last full weekend in July) is the largest and features great music, arts & crafts, seafood and a host of other activities, including the Lutefisk Eating Contest. During summer months, the Locks offer outdoor concerts and weekend activities for families.

Shopping
Did we mention shopping? Ballard boasts a plethora of one-of-a-kind shops - specialty bookstores, boutiques, purveyors of embellishments for the home, sellers of original art and handcrafted items, and more. On Sunday's, check out the Ballard Farmers' Market.

Whatever your pleasure, you could spend days in Ballard indulging in your favorite pursuits.

More Links

Self-guided walking tour of Ballard Avenue Landmark District
Nordic Heritage Museum
Syttende Mai
Ballard Jazz Festival
Second Saturday ArtWalk Maps
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
SeafoodFest
Ballard Sunday Farmers' Market
Golden Gardens
Fishermen's Terminal

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